Dongyong Lighthouse is a national historic site lighthouse at the eastern tip of Dongyin Island in Matsu, begun in 1902 and completed in 1904 under the late Qing dynasty. Its white cylindrical brick tower stands 14.2 meters tall and it is among the national historic sites farthest from Taiwan's main island.
Dongyong Lighthouse began construction in 1902 and was completed in 1904, first lit at sunset on May 18 of that year. It stands 14.2 meters tall, and originally used a then-advanced incandescent mantle lamp burning kerosene. Designated a class-three historic site in 1988, it was upgraded to national historic site status in 2016, making it one of Taiwan's national historic sites located farthest from the main island.
Highlights of Dongyin Lighthouse
The background of Dongyong Lighthouse's construction is similar to that of Dongju Lighthouse — both originated from British commercial needs along the East China Sea shipping routes. Completed in 1904, the lighthouse continued to operate through the late Qing dynasty, the Japanese occupation, and the Republic of China period, becoming one of the few Western maritime facilities in Taiwan that spans multiple historical eras. The white brick tower stands out sharply against Matsu's grey granite landscape, and is the most recognizable landmark on Dongyin Island.
The headland where the lighthouse stands is surrounded by sea on three sides and rises steeply. During the day you can look far out toward the waters off the Min River estuary; on clear days the view extends to sea surfaces tens of kilometers away. Because Dongyin itself has a small population and very few industrial facilities, nighttime sky darkness ranks among the best anywhere in Taiwan — on clear nights the Milky Way is clearly visible. The lighthouse complex is well preserved, with nearby trails connecting it to other Dongyin attractions.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
Practical Information
Getting There and Time Needed
- To reach Dongyin, take the Taima Ferry or fast ferry from Nangan. Journey times are affected by weather — confirm schedules and port-of-call information with the official Taima Ferry service before departure.
- Scooters are available to rent on Dongyin Island. The lighthouse is at the island's eastern end — follow road signs along the island's interior roads. Riding time is approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
Nearby Connections
- Can be combined with Andong Tunnel, Lienyu Yijing, Dongyin Sky Crevice, and Northern Frontier Monument for a complete one- to two-day Dongyin itinerary. All attractions are within scooter range.
- Yanxiu Chaoyin is on the island's northern side and can be scheduled on the same day as the lighthouse to experience the contrasting cliff landscapes of Dongyin's north and south coasts.
Source: Ministry of Culture Bureau of Cultural Heritage national historic site records, Matsu National Scenic Area Administration. Photos pending Dio's on-site shots.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Dongyong Lighthouse built?
It began construction in 1902, was completed in 1904, and was first lit at sunset on May 18 of that year.
How tall is Dongyong Lighthouse?
It stands 14.2 meters tall, a white cylindrical brick tower and the most recognizable landmark on Dongyin Island.
When was it designated a national historic site?
It was designated a class-three historic site in 1988 and upgraded to national historic site status in 2016.
Sources
- 國定古蹟環景導覽－東湧燈塔 — 確認建造年份、高度、燈器材料
- 東引島燈塔－維基百科 — 確認1988年三級古蹟、2016年升格國定古蹟