Kinmen / Kinmen Garrison Headquarters

#November Destinations 2025 Kinmen Garrison Headquarters: A Living Historical Site of Ming and Qing Dynasty Government Offices Located in Jincheng Township (formerly Houpu), Kinmen County, the Kinmen Garrison Headquarters is one of the best-preserved Qing Dynasty government office buildings in Taiwan. Originally built in the late Ming and early Qing Dynasties, it served as the study "Congqingxuan" of Xu Xie, a Ming Dynasty scholar. In 1680, during the reign of Emperor Kangxi of the Qing Dynasty, it officially became the Kinmen Garrison Headquarters, serving as the office and residence of the highest military commander of Kinmen. Having withstood over 300 years of history, it remains well-preserved and is a must-visit destination for understanding Kinmen's history. 📍Key Highlights and Historical Experiences 1. Complete Qing Dynasty Government Office Architectural Layout · Key Highlight: The Garrison Headquarters strictly adheres to the architectural regulations of Qing Dynasty government offices, adopting a three-courtyard layout. Walking through the complex, you can clearly see: * **Main Hall:** The main hall where the General held court and handled military and political affairs. Solemn and dignified, it displays "Silence" and "Avoidance" signs and official documents, recreating the scene of the General sitting in court. * **Second Hall:** A more private space used for receiving guests and discussing confidential matters. * **Inner Office (Rear Hall):** The living quarters of the General and his family, including bedrooms and studies, showcasing the typical functional zoning of an official residence: "front court, rear residence." 2. Dungeon and Torture Instrument Display * **Key Highlight:** Beneath the General's residence, the dungeon used to imprison criminals is preserved. The dark, damp environment, cold chains and shackles vividly demonstrate the harshness of ancient justice, making it a memorable part of the visit. 3. A Microcosm of Kinmen's Military History * Key Highlights: As a military command center, the museum systematically introduces Kinmen's coastal defense status since the Ming and Qing dynasties, the deeds of past commanders-in-chief, and Kinmen's strategic importance as the "key to the sea frontier" through rich historical materials, pictures, and models. 4. Gardens, Ancient Trees, and Spatial Aesthetics * Key Highlights: The courtyard of the headquarters is planted with centuries-old kapok and banyan trees, their lush greenery complementing the rustic architecture and adding a touch of garden elegance to the solemn official residence, showcasing the traditional wisdom of harmonious coexistence between architecture and nature. Visit Value and Experience * Experience the Spatial Sense of an Ancient Official Residence: This is not a reconstructed replica, but an authentic historical site, allowing you to experience firsthand the working and living environment of Qing dynasty military officers. * Understanding Kinmen's Strategic Position: Through the history of the Commander-in-Chief's Office, you can deeply understand the crucial role Kinmen once played in the defense system of the southeastern coast. • The Unique Charm of Nighttime Guided Tours: The General's Office is illuminated at night and offers scheduled nighttime guided tours. Under the night lights, the ancient office appears even more mysterious and solemn, offering a unique charm. 📍Practical Information • Address: No. 53, Wujiang Street, Jincheng Township, Kinmen County. • Transportation: Located in the center of Jincheng Township, easily accessible on foot or by electric scooter. • Opening Hours: Usually 09:00 - 22:00 daily (nighttime opening until 22:00 is a major feature). • Visiting Suggestions: • Guided Tours Recommended: Free guided tours are available regularly (daytime and nighttime). Following a guide's explanation is highly recommended, as it allows you to hear many vivid historical stories and architectural details. • Nighttime Experience: If time permits, be sure to experience a nighttime tour; the atmosphere is completely different from the daytime atmosphere. • Nearby Attractions: Visit nearby attractions such as the Qiu Liangong Mother's Chastity Memorial Arch, Model Street, and Kui Pavilion in Jincheng Township to experience the rich cultural heritage of Houpu Town. The Kinmen Garrison Commander's Office is not only an architectural relic but also a three-dimensional history textbook. Transforming from a Ming Dynasty scholar's study to a vital coastal defense town in the Qing Dynasty, it silently narrates Kinmen's history from a flourishing literary culture to a heavily fortified military. Stepping inside is like stepping into Kinmen's centuries-old time corridor.