Yanxiu Chaoyin is one of Dongyin's Eight Scenic Spots, a natural sea-eroded cave landform on the southern coast of Dongyin Island, enclosed by sheer cliffs on all sides and connected to the open sea only through a crack at the bottom of the gorge. Daily tides push seawater into the gorge, and the waves striking the rock produce an echoing sound — hence the name "tidal sound" (chaoyin); "yanxiu" is a local dialect term meaning "swallow's nest," referring to how swallows, unable to nest under eaves due to Dongyin's strong sea winds, once roosted in this gorge. The site has a pavilion and a loop trail around the gorge, and is also a well-known spot for observing black-tailed gulls.
Yanxiu Chaoyin is a sea-cave landform enclosed by cliffs on all sides, connected to the open sea only through a crack at the base of the gorge; tides flood the gorge daily and waves striking the rock walls echo through it, giving the site its name "tidal sound." "Yanxiu" is a local dialect term for "swallow's nest": because Dongyin's strong sea winds prevented swallows from nesting under eaves, they once roosted in this gorge instead, until military live-fire exercises here frightened the swallows away and they stopped nesting. The site has a pavilion and a loop trail, open 8am-12pm and 2pm-6pm, and visitors must carry ID. The Dongyin archipelago is one of the southernmost breeding grounds of the black-tailed gull worldwide, and the area between Laoshusha and Shuangzi Reef (including around Yanxiu Chaoyin) is where the gulls are most easily observed and most numerous on Dongyin.
Highlights of Yanxiu Chaoyin
The name "Yanxiu Chaoyin" draws on two images: yan (swallow/seabird), referring to the seabirds that nest here; and chaoyin (tidal sound), referring to the resonant sound produced when waves surge into the rock-fissure wind cave. The cliff landform on Dongyin's northern side is complex; the granite's well-developed joints have been eroded by waves over time, forming multiple natural wind caves. The shape and depth of a cave determine the timbre of its tidal sound: in heavy seas it booms like a drum; in calm conditions there is only a low airflow hum — each visit offers a different experience.
Black-tailed gulls nest in the cliff walls of Dongyin, and during the breeding season you can observe adult birds feeding chicks. When the flock is in flight, wingspans can exceed one meter — an impressive sight wheeling above the clifftop. The clifftop here also overlooks the northern sea around Dongyin Island, a good position for watching sea surface activity and looking out toward the Chinese mainland. Bringing binoculars will greatly enhance the birdwatching experience.
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. Schedules are affected by weather — confirm with the official Taima Ferry service. Strong winds may cause cancellations; plan a flexible itinerary.
- Yanxiu Chaoyin is on the northern side of Dongyin Island. Rent a scooter and follow the north-side road signs, then walk to the clifftop viewing area. Ask locals for the latest route conditions.
Nearby Connections
- Can be combined with Northern Frontier Monument for a Dongyin north coast route. The two sites are close together and suited for a half-day circuit; in the afternoon head to Lienyu Yijing or Andong Tunnel on the southern side.
- Dongyin's Eight Scenic Spots each have their own character. If you have two days, plan a complete Dongyin Eight Scenic Spots pilgrimage route — all spots are within scooter range.
Source: Matsu National Scenic Area Administration, Lienchiang County Dongyin Township Office. Photos pending Dio's on-site shots.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which side of Dongyin Island is Yanxiu Chaoyin on?
It is on the southern coast of Dongyin Island, a sea-cave landform enclosed by cliffs and connected to the sea only through a crack at the base of the gorge.
What do the names "yanxiu" and "chaoyin" mean?
Chaoyin refers to the echoing sound made when tides surge into the gorge and strike the rock walls; yanxiu is a local dialect term for "swallow's nest," recalling when swallows once nested there.
Why is Yanxiu Chaoyin a good spot for watching black-tailed gulls?
The Dongyin archipelago is one of the southernmost breeding grounds of the black-tailed gull worldwide, and the area around Laoshusha and Shuangzi Reef, including near Yanxiu Chaoyin, offers the easiest and most numerous sightings on Dongyin.
Sources
- 燕秀潮音 - 東引鄉公所 — 地形成因、名稱由來、開放時間
- 燕秀潮音 軍管景點 國之最北秘境 — 黑尾鷗觀察地點資訊
- 燕秀潮音 - 馬祖國家風景區觀光資訊網 — 官方景點介紹