Shuitou Settlement Introduction
Shuitou, also known as Jinshui, is located in the southwest corner of Jincheng Township. It is a multi-surname settlement primarily inhabited by the Huang family. Due to its proximity to the Shuitou ferry, it has historically been a vital transit point between Kinmen and Xiamen. Shuitou was once a prosperous settlement, home to the island's most exquisite samples of traditional Fujian architecture and Western-style buildings. Notable structures include Deyue Tower, Jinshui Elementary School, and the Overseas Chinese Cultural Exhibition Hall, each with distinct characteristics. A local proverb in Kinmen states, "Those with access to Shuitou are wealthy, while those without can only dream," implying that while one can be as affluent as the residents of Shuitou, owning grand houses like those in Shuitou is not easy, reflecting the esteem Kinmen people hold for the settlement's architecture. In addition to agriculture and fishing, Shuitou’s residents historically engaged in shipping and trade. As a result, traditional Minnan houses and Western-style buildings influenced by overseas cultures dot the settlement. The traditional Minnan structures include the Huang clan ancestral hall built during the Qianlong period, the Huang Ji ancient house, and the "Eighteen Beams" of Dingjie (nine large houses in two courtyards). After the mid-Qing Dynasty, a significant number of Kinmen expatriates sent remittances home to construct schools (Jinshui School) and well-designed Western-style buildings like the gun towers (Deyue Tower). Shuitou is akin to an exhibition space of historical architecture and is the best-preserved traditional settlement in Kinmen. More about Jinshui Elementary School ＞＞ More about Deyue Tower ＞＞ More about the Overseas Chinese Cultural Exhibition Hall ＞＞
