Shuitou Ancient Houses

Introducing Shuitou Ancient Houses

The Shuitou Ancient Houses complex, located in the southwest of Kinmen Island, is a coastal village that preserves many traditional Minnan houses and Western-style buildings from its prosperous past. Kinmen residents say, "Shuitou is rich, but Shuitou houses are not." This means that even if you're as wealthy as the people of Shuitou, you might not be able to build a house like the ones in Shuitou Village. The affluent Shuitou boasts not only Western-style architecture but also a self-guided walking trail. Following the trail, you'll encounter Kinmen's Minnan-style collective architecture: the "Shuitou Eighteen Rooms," built during the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty. House No. 9 represents the Huang Shaoguang Residence. Rows upon rows of two-story houses are neatly arranged in the "comb-style" layout common in southern China, with low front and high back, providing excellent ventilation and protection from enemy forces. This complex predates another residential complex in Kinmen, the Shanhou Folk Culture Village, by over 120 years.

Climate and best time to travel

The Shuitou Ancient Houses complex has a subtropical marine climate and retains many of the Minnan ancient houses and Western-style buildings built during the prosperous past. This area of ​​buildings is more than 120 years older than another residential complex in Kinmen, the Shanhou Folk Culture Village, making it a suitable place for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Huang's Youtang, Deyue Tower

It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours

Tickets

Free and open

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Shuitou Ancient Houses

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Shuitou Ancient Houses are a collection of well-preserved historical buildings in Kinmen, Taiwan. These houses date back to the Qing Dynasty and showcase traditional Fujian-style architecture. The houses were built by wealthy merchants and have intricate stone carvings, offering a glimpse into the architectural and cultural heritage of the region. The village remains a living example of traditional Taiwanese life from centuries ago.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Shuitou Ancient Houses are located in Shuitou Village, Kinmen, Taiwan. To reach the site, you can take a taxi or rental car from Kinmen Airport or the downtown area. Public buses also serve the village, though taxis are more convenient for direct access. The site is a short walking distance from local accommodations in the area.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Shuitou Ancient Houses are open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM. The best time to visit is in the morning when the area is less crowded, allowing you to explore the houses at a relaxed pace. Weekdays are typically quieter than weekends, making them ideal for those looking to avoid crowds.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is a small entrance fee to visit the Shuitou Ancient Houses. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance on-site. The fee is usually very affordable, and no online booking is required. Some guided tours may have an additional cost, which can be arranged upon arrival.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No advance booking is necessary for visiting the Shuitou Ancient Houses. However, if you prefer to join a guided tour, it’s recommended to book a day or two in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons or on weekends.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You will need about 1 to 2 hours to fully explore the Shuitou Ancient Houses. This allows time to wander through the historical buildings, visit the courtyards, and learn about the history of the site. If you are joining a guided tour, the visit may take up to 3 hours.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The main ancestral hall, which is richly decorated with carvings and historical artifacts.
• The courtyard areas, where traditional Taiwanese family life can be observed in the context of ancient architecture.
• The intricate stone carvings and woodwork, which showcase the craftsmanship of the Qing Dynasty era.
• The preserved stone walls and buildings, providing a rare glimpse into old Taiwanese village life.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some tours may offer English-speaking guides. Audio guides are not commonly provided, but local guides are available at the entrance to offer detailed explanations about the site’s history and significance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The front courtyards of the ancient houses provide excellent spots for photos with traditional architecture as a backdrop.
• From the rooftops of some of the houses, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the village and surrounding landscape.
• The intricate stone carvings and well-preserved stonework are perfect for close-up photography, showcasing the fine craftsmanship of the time.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start by exploring the main entrance and the courtyard area before entering the first house to view the stone carvings and decorations.
• Next, move through the various ancestral halls and learn about the history of each family’s contributions to the community.
• End the tour by relaxing in the open areas and taking in the tranquil atmosphere of the ancient village.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are not generally available for the Shuitou Ancient Houses, as the site typically closes by early evening. However, the area may offer occasional cultural performances or special tours during festivals or holidays. It’s best to check for updates ahead of time if you're planning a visit during these periods.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The Shuitou Ancient Houses can get busy on weekends, especially during the peak tourist seasons. For a more peaceful visit, it’s best to go early in the morning on weekdays, when the crowds are thinner.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The site has basic facilities such as restrooms and water fountains. There are no large food courts or restaurants inside the ancient houses, but you can find small local food stalls in the nearby village. Rest areas are available for visitors to relax and enjoy the surrounding environment.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Shuitou Ancient Houses are accessible to elderly and children, though some parts of the site may involve walking on uneven stone paths. The attraction may not be fully accessible for those with severe mobility issues, as there are some stairs and narrow walkways.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly used in the village and for entrance fees. Mobile payments and credit cards are not widely accepted, so it’s recommended to bring cash with you for any purchases or entrance tickets.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Small local eateries in the village offer Taiwanese dishes, such as noodles and dumplings.
• For a more scenic dining experience, you can visit nearby restaurants along the waterfront, offering local seafood and Taiwanese specialties.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at many of the local eateries in the village, such as vegetable dumplings and tofu dishes. Halal food options are less common, but there are some restaurants in Kinmen offering Muslim-friendly meals.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• The Kinmen Youth Activity Center offers affordable accommodations near the Shuitou Ancient Houses.
• Nearby guesthouses and small hotels provide convenient lodging for those visiting the ancient houses.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Kinmen National Park, which offers hiking trails and scenic views of the island.
• The Jinsha Township, home to other historic villages and cultural sites.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are small souvenir shops near the entrance of the ancient houses, selling local crafts such as handmade pottery, traditional Taiwanese textiles, and locally produced teas.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Public buses and taxis can take you to other attractions in Kinmen, such as Kinmen National Park and the Jinsha Township.
• Renting a scooter or car is also a popular option for exploring the island’s scenic spots at your own pace.