aeeble

Reviving the Coastal Fishing Village Ambiance The small settlement of Ren'ai Village in Nangang, formerly known as "Tieban," is surrounded by mountains on three sides and faces the sea. When the tide recedes, the shoreline reveals extensive sand and stone, which glimmers under the sunlight resembling a large iron plate, hence the name. Later renamed Ren'ai Village, it once served as a bustling large market and county administrative headquarters. However, after the political and economic center shifted to Shanlong Village, Ren'ai Village reverted to a quieter state again. The village features extensively distributed Fujian-style stone houses. Recently, through the planning efforts of the government and dedicated individuals, the area has been revitalized with renewed commercial aesthetics and art installations, such as blending the old stone houses with battlefield camouflage themes, large vintage photos hung outdoors, and replicas of traditional archways. Residents demonstrate great care and attention in preserving and enhancing the settlement, successfully reinvigorating Ren'ai Village. Under the villagers’ conscientious protection, some buildings have been preserved intact. Wandering through the village, a picturesque blend of modern architecture and aged structures unfolds effortlessly. Although the traditional fishing village scenery is less prominent, the passage of time has endowed the stillness of the village with a natural charm. Matsu Story Museum and Tieban Life Museum Revisiting Simplicity and Narrating Old Tales Near the entrance of Ren'ai Village, within the Matsu Daily Newspaper offices, is the "Matsu Story Museum." The first floor focuses on the history of Matsu’s journalism, while the second floor displays wartime-era artifacts and historical photographs related to Matsu. Nearby, the revitalized historic house serves as the "Tieban Life Museum," exhibiting local cultural treasures and daily-life items. This combination resembles a time tunnel, providing visitors a chance to experience the simple life of wartime Matsu. Matsu Story Museum Address: No. 19, Ren’ai Village, Nangang, Lienchiang County Opening Hours: 08:00–17:00 Tieban Life Museum (Nangang Tieban Community Development Association) Address: No. 51, Ren’ai Village, Nangang, Lienchiang County Opening Hours: 08:30–17:00 Crispy and Generously Filled "Chentie Shiben (虫弟食并)" A Must-Eat Specialty in Matsu "Chentie Shiben" is one of the must-try street foods when visiting Matsu. The term "Chentie" is pronounced "Ti" and may also be called "Lobster Buns," a traditional delicacy originating from Fuzhou. Hiding within the Ren'ai Market, "Grandma Chentie Shiben" resembles the "Oyster Fritter," but its ingredients are particularly authentic and rich. Made from a batter of rice and soybeans, it is stuffed with eggs, napa cabbage, shredded meat, and rice noodles, then deep-fried in an oil pan until golden brown and crispy. Layers of texture make it irresistibly delicious! The shop's "Hongzao Chicken串串 (Fermented Rice Wine Chicken串串)" is also highly recommended by many patrons. Address: No. 15, Ren’ai Village, Nangang, Lienchiang County Business Hours: 14:00–Until Sold Out Guanmai Mountain Ecology Trail Behind Tieban, on the small hill opposite the Nangang Visitor Center, is the Guanmai Mountain Ecology Trail. Originally a major military installation, it was later renovated organically by villagers and transformed into a natural park blending battlefield charm and lush greenery. A 360-degree camouflage-style observation deck is located on-site, offering a panoramic view of the scenic North Sea Cavern and vistas of Ren’ai Village.