Rabbit’s Private Kinmen Trip %s Little Venice by Shanwai Bridge
Last updated 2026-09-25 — I visited Kinmen twice this autumn, making my friends think I might be moving there. Kinmen is truly a beautiful place, and this trip changed many of my stereotypes about this former military outpost, adding...
Text by Rabbit
I visited Kinmen twice this autumn, making my friends think I might be moving there.
Kinmen is truly a beautiful place. This trip changed many of my stereotypes about this former military outpost, adding some interesting, authentic Kinmen vibes. Kinmen is not just about traditional houses, military tanks, water buffalo, or sorghum. There are also romantic hidden spots and old-time eateries recommended by locals... This time, I’m introducing you to a Kinmen beyond the stereotypes.
The area by Shanwai Bridge in Kinmen is so beautiful it feels like Europe. (Photo provided by Rabbit)
What to eat in Kinmen?
I’ve narrowed it down to ten must-try local snacks. Kinmen beef, sorghum-based products, handmade noodles, oyster vermicelli, seafood, sandworms, stir-fried instant noodles, Cantonese porridge, Min-style baked cakes, and Little Kinmen taro. Plus, there are long-standing shops highly recommended by locals, spots beloved by soldiers, and a few places that Rabbit personally loves.
↑ Yongchun Cantonese Porridge comes in generous portions. (Photo provided by Rabbit)
↑ Stir-fried instant noodles have a unique flavor — definitely worth trying. (Photo provided by Rabbit)
Start your day with Yongchun Cantonese Porridge, simmered until the rice grains are barely visible, or head to Jinli Xiaolongbao for steamed dumplings made with aged dough. For lunch, try the chewy knife-cut noodles at Xixiangfeng or ask Grandma at Hongda Snacks to stir-fry a plate of instant noodles with braised tidbits. For an afternoon snack, enjoy sweet glutinous rice balls in osmanthus wine soup at Tantianlou. Dinner can be fresh sandworms and drunken crabs at Jide Seafood Restaurant. For a late-night bite, grab affordable and delicious skewers at North BBQ... These are all local delicacies you shouldn’t miss.
↑ The chewy texture of knife-cut noodles is unforgettable. (Photo provided by Rabbit)
↑ Stir-fried sandworms are a uniquely Kinmen dish. (Photo provided by Rabbit)
↑ Affordable and hearty barbecue is perfect for sharing. (Photo provided by Rabbit)
What are the must-visit attractions?
During the day, explore the village alleys to find Kinmen’s iconic “wind lion gods” — each village has its own unique version. Kinmen’s strong military heritage also includes many tunnels that you can visit during daylight. Alternatively, you can hike in Kinmen National Park for fresh air and mountain views.
↑ Wind lion gods in different Kinmen villages each have their own charm. (Photo provided by Rabbit)
In the evening, if the weather is clear, find a scenic spot to watch the sunset. Two great sunset viewing locations are Cihu and Jianguang Islet. There are also great night photography spots. The iconic “Juguang Tower” puts on a beautiful light show at a fixed time every night. Bring a tripod for stunning night shots.
↑ Juguang Tower’s night light show is a must-see — don’t forget your tripod. (Photo provided by Rabbit)
Beyond these iconic Kinmen sights, I’d also like to recommend a private romantic spot. I call it “Kinmen’s Little Venice!” Located by Shanwai Bridge, the scenery here is breathtaking — one side is lined with colorful painted houses, while the other features graffiti showcasing Kinmen’s unique character.
This little area exudes a romantic European vibe. Unaware visitors might even think they’re in Venice.
No, I didn’t fly abroad — this stunning hidden gem is right here in Taiwan, in Kinmen. It’s not only a great photo spot but also a romantic place for couples to stroll.
↑ The scenery by Shanwai Bridge is perfect for couples holding hands. (Photo provided by Rabbit)
↑ The graffiti featuring Kinmen’s unique elements is quite special. (Photo provided by Rabbit)
You could also spend a morning visiting Little Kinmen. The ferry ticket is NT$60, NT$50 for bringing a non-local motorcycle, and bicycles are free. Little Kinmen doesn’t have wind lion gods — instead, you’ll find wind chickens and North Wind Gods. The atmosphere is more rustic and peaceful compared to Greater Kinmen, and you can even see Xiamen across the water.
↑ Little Kinmen’s simplicity and tranquility showcase a different kind of beauty. (Photo provided by Rabbit)
For souvenirs, besides the usual suspects like Kaoliang liquor, candied floss, Dendrobium, beef jerky, and handmade noodles, I also love the adorable Fengbo Baked Treats from Jinyuefang. They’re shaped like wind lion gods and made with fresh Kinmen milk instead of UHT milk — absolutely delicious.
↑ The wind lion god-shaped “Fengbo Baked Treats” are cute and tasty. (Photo provided by Rabbit)
How should you plan a laid-back trip to Kinmen?
You could go on a food tour and try all the recommended eats. Or embark on a wind lion god hunt, taking photos with these statues around the island. A journey through the traditional houses and unique architecture would also make for a rich experience. Kinmen isn’t just about military culture — come discover a different side of the island.
Player Profile—Tutu (http://goo.gl/T3IuoE)
With a medical background, she works at a demanding hospital in Taichung during the day, handling clinical research.
After work, she sits at her computer, sharing content on food, travel, accommodations, skincare, makeup, healthcare, and relationships.
I’m Tutu, and I just really love food.
● Further Reading:
Outshining the Yellow Rubber Duck: A 70-meter Blue Sperm Whale Swims into Youth Park
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