[Recommended in-depth Kinmen sightseeing circle] Kinmen Lieyu Island | Lieyu Day Trip Shaxi Fort & Huxia Painted Village | Departing from Kinmen City

Lieyu Township is located southwest of the main island of Kinmen. Due to its proximity to the main island and its relatively smaller size, it is commonly known as 'Lesser Kinmen.' It guards the vital maritime passage between Kinmen and Xiamen, separated by only a narrow body of water. In the past, it played an extremely important role in military strategy and is renowned as the 'Maritime Park.' Its unique geographical position makes it a significant gateway to understanding Kinmen's military history.

Lieyu boasts rich military historical sites, making it an unmissable destination for an in-depth experience of Kinmen's military heritage. Must-visit attractions include Shaxi Fort, with its triangular fortresses and views overlooking Xiamen, exuding a strong sense of history. The Hujingtou War History Museum offers a deep understanding of the historical background of cross-strait tensions and Lieyu's combat journey. Additionally, there are Tiedao Fort and Yongshi Fort, connected by underground tunnels, showcasing unique military defense fortifications that allow visitors to personally feel the past battlefield atmosphere.

Lieyu's Shaxi Fort is not only a prime spot for sunset viewing but also features unique geographical characteristics and military relics that are highly noteworthy. Shaped like a phoenix with wings spread, it is also known as 'Phoenix Beak' and is one of Taiwan's westernmost points. The fort preserves complete military facilities, including bunkers, barracks, and underground tunnels, reflecting the appearance of a former battlefield. From the observation deck, you can gaze across at Xiamen, experiencing the vicissitudes of history and the close-proximity landscape of both shores. It's a popular hidden gem for photographers.

Huxia Painted Village is renowned for its vivid and lively murals, which blend local customs with cultural stories. Visitors can stroll through the village, admiring artworks themed around Kinmen's unique flora and fauna, traditional life, and military history, experiencing the fusion of art and traditional settlements. Local residents often share snippets of their lives here, making it an excellent place to experience the simple and warm human touch of Lieyu Township, showcasing the unique local customs and traditions of Lesser Kinmen.

Houlin Rifle Simulation Range is the first private professional shooting range in the country, offering a safe and realistic simulated shooting experience. Under the guidance of professional instructors, visitors can use simulated rifles similar in weight to real firearms to enjoy the fun and precision of shooting. The facility is well-equipped, and through its high-tech simulation system, both beginners and experienced individuals can enjoy exciting and cool simulated shooting activities, experiencing the atmosphere of military training.

The most convenient way to travel from Kinmen City to Lieyu (Lesser Kinmen) is by taking a ferry from Shuitou Pier on the main island of Kinmen. The journey takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes, with frequent departures. Upon arrival in Lieyu, visitors can rent scooters, electric bicycles, or take the local island bus to explore the scenery. If you opt for a one-day tour package, it typically includes shuttle services, eliminating the hassle of planning your own transportation and making your trip to Lieyu easy and convenient.

Lieyu (Lesser Kinmen) is a small island. If you cycle or ride an electric bicycle around it, excluding time spent at each attraction, it takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. To thoroughly explore the island's major attractions, including Shaxi Fort, Huxia Painted Village, and Houlin Rifle Simulation Range, it is recommended to allocate at least half a day, or even a full day. This allows ample time to comfortably experience its rich military heritage and natural beauty, as well as to soak in the local culture.

In addition to its famous sweet and soft taro, Lieyu offers many other local delicacies worth trying. You can sample traditional snacks like 'Tong Bing' (barrel cake) or Kinmen's distinctive Cantonese porridge and sesame flatbread. Furthermore, dishes made with local seafood are also very popular. Creative taro-themed snacks, such as 'Taro Meets Meat' and taro ice cream, are must-try delicious options when visiting Lieyu, showcasing the unique charm of the local culinary culture.