Beishan Old Western House Introduction
Beishan Old Western House was built collectively by the three brothers Li Jinyu, Li Yanya, and Li Tianzhu from Guningtou. The brothers succeeded in the coconut trade in Manila, Philippines, and returned to their hometown in Beishan in 1928 to build a large residence for their mother. In 1937, they constructed a two-story western-style house, with the collaboration of craftsmen from South An and local artisans, including Li Yantou. Due to its elevated location and good visibility, the western house offers a panoramic view of the village, making it strategically valuable. During the Guningtou Campaign, it was occupied by the Communist forces and served as a command post, enduring fierce gunfights and shelling, thus proving its historical significance as a frontline location in Kinmen. Today, one can still see the collapsed roof and numerous bullet holes, yet the architecture retains its unique charm; the interior has been transformed into a backpacker's hostel, providing a comfortable resting environment for travelers, while the exterior still bears the scars of war, making it feel as if the sounds of cannon fire can still be heard echoing through the air.
