aeeble

A few steps upward reflect on the nostalgic sentiment. Before the completion of Zhongzhu Port, Zhongcheng Gate had always been the gateway to Dongying Island, the essential passage for military and civilians, as well as fishermen's catch loading and unloading. Now it has lost its original function. Zhongcheng Gate is a classical half-round city wall-style structure. Located at the southern entrance of Dongying Island's Nao'an coastal area, the watchtower on either side stands with eight large red-background white-character words: "Sovereign Law Pragmatism, Diligence Frugality Simplicity", and atop the city wall, a statue of a soldier holding a gun appears remarkably heroic, exuding a solitary guardian holding off thousands, reflecting the historical atmosphere of the battlefield days of Dongying in the past. Passing through the gate and ascending the steps leads one to Zhonglu, the once-busy commercial center of this island, the Dongying district's Dongliu Village, Yueliu Village. It was built alongside the hill and maintains many traditional Min Dong houses using granite as building materials, with rustic yet solid characteristics, giving a flavor similar to "Battlefield Jiufen." Ascending the gate and standing next to the statue is an excellent vantage point to overlook Zhongzhu Port. The Dongying Jing Mazu Temple located to the left rear of Zhongcheng Gate reportedly dates back to the Jiaqing era (Qing Dynasty), and is one of the important spiritual centers for local residents. Dongying's unwavering battle warrior: on Zhongcheng Gate stands a statue of a soldier, built around 1974. It has been on duty for over forty years to this day. Inspired by a draft advertisement, it was named "Ah Rong," serving as a spiritual emblem for both the military and civilians. It is also a mandatory destination for many retired soldiers revisiting this place.