Things To Do
in Jincheng
Jincheng is the county seat of Kinmen County, Taiwan, located just off the coast near Xiamen. The town blends military history with seafood-forward cuisine and relaxed island vibes. Its narrow lanes, red brick warehouses, and wind-swept coastlines offer a compact, walkable base for exploring Kinmen's culture and fortifications.
Visitors can sample Kinmen Kaoliang liquor, stroll old streets, and take short ferry trips to nearby islets for a varied maritime experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Jincheng and settle into your accommodation. Start the day with a visit to the Jincheng Old Town, where you can admire the well-preserved architecture and vibrant street life. Don't forget to grab a local breakfast at a traditional eatery, savoring some freshly made Taiwanese delicacies.
In the afternoon, explore the Koxinga Shrine, dedicated to the famous Ming loyalist, Zheng Chenggong. Take a leisurely stroll in the surrounding gardens and learn about the historical significance of this site. Continue your exploration with a visit to the nearby Jincheng Cultural Center for a glimpse into local arts and craft.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a local seafood restaurant, sampling the freshest catches of the day. Afterwards, take a nighttime walk along the Jincheng waterfront to enjoy the serene views over the harbor. Cap off your evening with a visit to a local tea house for a relaxing cup of tea.
Begin your day with a visit to the Chihkan Tower, a historical landmark that offers insights into Taiwan's colonial past. Spend time exploring the exhibits and enjoying panoramic views of the city from the tower. Afterward, indulge in a traditional Taiwanese breakfast in a nearby café.
Dedicate the afternoon to visiting the Jincheng Confucius Temple, where you can learn about Confucian philosophies and practices. Stroll through the tranquil gardens and appreciate the beautiful architecture of this centuries-old temple. Capture some photos of the intricate decorations that adorn the temple grounds.
In the evening, take part in a local cooking class where you learn to prepare authentic Taiwanese dishes. Enjoy the fruits of your labor in a communal dining setting, sharing stories with other travelers. End the day with a restful walk along the Lantern Festival displays if in season, as the lights create a magical atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a cafe | $3-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $50-90 |
| 🚲Bike rental per day | $8-15 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs and snacks | $5-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable town with rich military history
- Fresh seafood and Kinmen Kaoliang liquor
- Easy day trips to nearby islets and forts
- Safe and friendly atmosphere
- Less nightlife and shopping compared to bigger cities
- Limited international flight options from Kinmen Airport
- Smaller-scale public transport outside Jincheng
- Weather can be windy and typhoon-prone
- "你好" - Hello
- "謝謝" - Thank you
- "請問洗手間在哪裡？" - Where is the bathroom?
- "你會說英文嗎？" - Do you speak English?
- "多少錢？" - How much is this?
- "可以刷卡嗎？" - Can I pay by card?
- "我想要一份素食" - I would like a vegetarian dish
- "很高興認識你" - Nice to meet you
- "請慢用" - Enjoy your meal
- "再見" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Jincheng
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic coastal rock formations and dramatic sunsets, a signature Kinmen backdrop.
Narrow lanes lined with red-brick storefronts, lanterns, and vintage signage ideal for architectural photography.
Historic sea tunnel and coastal defense structure offering texture and sea spray imagery.
Historic fortifications with rugged sea views and well-preserved ramparts.
Industrial-charm facades and signage; great for night or blue-hour photography.
Food in Jincheng
Jincheng Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Oysters folded into a starchy batter with eggs, served with a light soy-based relish; a staple on streetside stalls.
Must-Try!
Squid slow-cooked in a fragrant trio of sesame, soy, and rice wine; rich and aromatic.
A bubbling pot of shrimp, fish, and shellfish simmered with vegetables in a light broth.
A comforting broth featuring tender goat meat, seasoned with local herbs; a regional favorite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for fresh seafood, island snacks, and casual eateries near the harbor.
Casual booths and small eateries offering quick bites, snacks, and local treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite nod or hello is common; address elders with respect and avoid loudly drawing attention to yourself in public spaces.
Stand in queues, avoid loud arguments, and show general courtesy in temples and historic sites.
Safety
Tipping in Jincheng
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Taiwan; rounding up or small tips are appreciated in some eateries but not expected.
Cash is widely accepted; major credit cards are increasingly accepted in towns and hotels; mobile payments (e.g., LINE Pay) are growing.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and breezy days; great for outdoor walks and photography without crowds.
Hot and humid with higher humidity; typhoon risk in August–September; stay hydrated and seek shade.
Comfortable temperatures and clear skies; ideal for coastal photography and day trips.
Mild and occasionally chilly; carry a light jacket and enjoy cooler, quieter streets.
Jincheng at Night
Hiking in Jincheng
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic paths around the historic fortress with sea views.
Gentle walks along the coast with photo opportunities.
Hikes on Little Kinmen with beaches and cliffs.
Airports
How to reach Jincheng by plane.
Located on Kinmen Island, with domestic flights to Taipei and other Taiwan cities; convenient for island hopping.
Major hub for flights to Kinmen and other destinations; connects to international flights.
Main international gateway; transfer to Kinmen by domestic flight or ferry.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Taiwanese Han with a strong maritime and agricultural heritage.
Communities centered on the sea contribute to Kinmen's character.
Domestic tourists from Taiwan and a growing number of international visitors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Flat terrain and scenic coastal routes make cycling very popular.
Locals and visitors engage in fishing, snorkeling, and boating.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Jincheng.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ask for vegetable-based dishes or tofu options; many stalls can adapt seafood-focused items to vegetarian preparations where possible.