Hujingtou Battle History Museum | Kinmen Attraction

Hujingtou is located in the northwestern corner of Lieyu Township and is one of the publicly accessible viewpoints closest to Xiamen in terms of straight-line distance — only about 2 kilometers from Xiamen Island. Standing on the museum's observation deck, the high-rise buildings of Xiamen's urban area are clearly visible to the naked eye, making the geographic proximity of the two sides unmistakably real. The museum grounds display former defensive fortifications and artillery positions, transforming the political geography of looking across the strait into a walkable historical site.

Highlights of the Hujingtou Battle History Museum

During the Cold War, Lieyu Township served as a front-line defense position. Hujingtou was the most forward outpost on the northwestern coast, equipped with artillery observation posts and defensive fortifications. The site preserves some of the original fortification structures, including underground tunnel entrances and artillery position remnants. Exhibits document how Lieyu's Cold War defense system operated and use maps and photographs to explain the historical context of the cross-strait military standoff.

Hujingtou's geographic setting makes it a uniquely revealing place for understanding the reality of cross-strait geopolitics: Xiamen Island's buildings, the Xiamen Bridge, and other landmarks are clearly visible. Set against the backdrop of the former artillery ruins on the museum grounds, the effect is a striking juxtaposition of historical eras. The observation deck has interpretive signs that label the identifiable landmarks on the opposite shore, helping visitors orient themselves across Xiamen Island.

How to make the most of your visit

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Look at Xiamen through binocularsThe site has binocular equipment. On clear days with good visibility you can clearly observe Xiamen Island's urban area, harbor shipping traffic, and the Xiamen Bridge. Morning visits on clear days are recommended.

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Explore the defensive fortificationsArtillery positions and observation post remains are preserved on the grounds. The spatial layout of the front-line defense facilities and the way observation operations were conducted can be understood from the on-site explanatory signs.

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Frame the cross-strait contrastComposing a shot with the former watchtower ruins in the foreground and Xiamen's skyline in the background creates a powerful visual juxtaposition of history and present, war and peace.

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Read the historical panelsThe museum traces the defense history of Lieyu along a timeline. Reading through the display panels in order is recommended for understanding the strategic role Hujingtou played in the overall Kinmen defense system.

Practical information

Getting there and timing

To reach Lieyu, take the Little Kinmen ferry. Check the latest schedules and fares with the Kinmen County Government or the ferry operator. Hujingtou is at the northwestern tip of Lieyu Island; after arriving at Jiugong Pier, renting a scooter is recommended — about 10 minutes away.
Opening hours and admission fees for the museum are subject to official Kinmen County Government announcements — confirm before visiting. Morning or earlier in the day offers better visibility; avoid afternoon visits when backlighting reduces the quality of views across to Xiamen.

Nearby connections

Hujingtou is close to Badalouz (Shangqi) and Lingshuihu Lake, all on the western side of Lieyu Island — a half-day western Lieyu route can connect all three in a single outing.
From Hujingtou, heading south along the coast connects to the northern section of the Lieyu Coastal Trail, where you can hike along the rocky shoreline and pass former watchtower ruins for a rich on-foot experience.

Sources: Kinmen County Government tourism information, Lieyu Township Office interpretive materials. Photos to be replaced with Dio's own shots.

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