Communal culture realized in traditional architecture is the most precious asset of the Kinmen National Park. Seven of the most representative examples are introduced as below:

●    Nanshan and Beishan

Nanshan and Beishan are face to face on the opposite side of the Shuangli Lake(雙鯉湖). In conjunction with Lincuo(林厝) community, the greater area is known as Guningtou, main location of the Guningtou Battlement. Today sites of ruins and traces of warfare still vividly tell the history of the military conflicts.


●    Shanhou

Shanhou represents one of the finest examples of traditional residential plan. With iconic swallowtail ridge design and perfect passage connection, eighteen “two swallowtail ridge” mansions in the community form an entity of consistency and elegance.



●    Qionglin

Well preserved, Qionglin is the largest residential community in the old times. Featured in this communal area is the high density of shrines and clan centers, which alludes to the large number of government-accredited and -recognized individuals among the residents in the imperial past. Up until today, its old-time hierarchical system and ceremonial practice of the clan remain almost unchanged.


●    Shuitou

Shuitou’s architecture sees a predominating diversification in style. From typical South Fujian grand mansions to buildings with foreign design, residency documents the change of architectural preference over time.


● Zhushan

This residential village has its buildings constructed in fine order around the central shrine and the adjacent pond. All houses reside along the surrounding hill, facing down the water, representing the long-established geomantic theory of traditional environmentalism.








●    Oucuo

Residency in this area is well divided in styles. In the upper section, individual buildings are connected with fortified gate, forming a shared living space besides constructing a better-defended community. In the lower part, in contrast, the so-called comb layout dominates the architectural character. Distinctive in form, both utter an eloquence of traditional value.