Did you know that the highest point in the Matsu Islands is right here on Beigan Shan? It stands at 298 meters. That is about 978 feet. We are on Beigan Island. It is also known as Peikan Island. This island is the second largest in the Matsu Islands.
Beigan Shan is also called Bishan. It means Mount Bi. The mountain offers amazing views. You can see the eastern half of Beigan. It is a magnificent panorama.
Beigan Island has a long history. Prehistoric settlement dates back six thousand years. Fishing villages were here during the Song and Yuan dynasties.
The island was abandoned several times. This was due to Great Clearance edicts during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Pirates frequented this area. In 1754, a watchtower was built on Beigan Island.
In 1937, Japan occupied Beigan and Nangan. Many Fujian residents came to Beigan. They fished here due to the vast resources. In 1949, the People’s Republic of China was established. Matsu separated from mainland China. It became part of Lienchiang County under Taiwan’s government.
Skirmishes occurred near Gaodeng Island in the 1950s. These were between Nationalist and Communist forces. In 1955, a Chinese Communist boat was engaged near Beigan Island. In 1959, Communist guns fired shells. They landed on Beigan Island.
In 1967, shelling at Tangqi Village killed one person. Six others were injured. Three buildings were destroyed.
Presidents of Taiwan have visited Beigan several times. Chiang Ching-kuo visited in 1977 and 1980. Lee Teng-hui visited in 1994 and 1996. Chen Shui-bian visited in 2000. Ma Ying-jeou visited in 2013.
In 1994, Beigan Airport was built. In 2011, prehistoric skeletons were found on Liang Island. A movie called 100 Days was filmed in Qinbi Village in 2013.
Beigan Island is part of Beigan Township. The township includes several islands. Daqiu Island is known for Formosan sika deer. Gaodeng Island and Liang Island are off-limits.
Beigan Township has six villages. Tangqi is the most densely populated. Qinbi is known as “A Mediterranean town on the Taiwan Strait”. Baisha is near the commercial port. Banli has the Beihai Tunnel. Qiaozi is on the northeastern side. Houwo is on a peninsula.
Tourism is now the main source of income. There are hotels in Tangqi. You can find B&Bs in Qinbi and Qiaozi.
So as you stand on Beigan Shan, remember its rich history. From prehistoric settlements to military skirmishes, Beigan has seen it all. It is a beautiful place with a unique story. Take in the panoramic view. Let the history of Beigan Shan sink in.