Bishan Settlement Introduction
Located near the eastern coast of Kinmen, Bihshan Settlement, though not included in the Kinmen National Park, boasts a rich landscape that blends different cultures, attracting numerous visitors. In 2002, during the themed historical architecture event "The Call of Bihshan," the term "Bihshan Eight Scenes" emerged, featuring notable sites such as the famous Chen Qingji Western-style mansion, Chen Dexing Western-style mansion, Ruiyou School, the century-old Huang Lianmu tree, the Yuelai Si Ju residence, Zhaoling Temple, and the large and small ancestral halls, making them must-visit landmarks of Bihshan Settlement! The wall paintings created by picture book artist Liu Ruqi (wawa) and volunteers from the village, along with the students of Anlan Elementary School, enlivened the ancient village and infused Bihshan Settlement with new generation creativity, continuing its vibrant story. Ruiyou School, built in 1934, was a school established through the lifelong struggles of Mr. Chen Ruiyou, who went to Singapore for development. After his passing, his son commissioned local resident Mr. Chen Dexing to build this school, which initially provided free education for children from surrounding settlements. Unfortunately, it was closed after just one year due to the Japanese occupation of Kinmen. After being designated a county historic site and undergoing restoration, it now serves as a community arts and cultural performance center. Ruiyou School, modeled after Western Baroque architecture, features facade sculptures themed around Indian soldiers, musical bands, flowers, and cranes. Although it now bears the marks of time, the former grandeur remains visible. The Chen Qingji Western-style mansion, completed in 1931, features three recesses, two tiers, and decorative dragons. Built by the owner Chen Qingji, its facade is designed with a simple petal shape, marked with the words "Union Is Strength," and boasts sculptures of Indian soldiers and boatmen, a fusion of Eastern and Western styles that was rare in Kinmen at the time! After 1949, the mansion was requisitioned for military training until the 1980s when military personnel officially withdrew. In 2014, it served as one of the filming locations for the movie "Paradise in Service." Chen Dexing Western-style mansion is located at the entrance of the settlement, making it quite prominent and is one of the early Western-style buildings in Kinmen. Its facade features carvings of a mouse, goldfish, and banana plants, symbolizing fertility and prosperity. Though it appears somewhat dilapidated now, traces of its past grandeur can still be seen in the details.
