Lianjiang County is located directly north of the Taiwan Strait, facing the estuaries of the Minjiang River, Aojiang River, and Luoyuan Bay, making it a strategic maritime hub. The county comprises the Matsu Islands, commonly referred to as "Matsu" (Mā-cū), and consists of 36 islands and reefs, including Nangan, Beigan, Dongju, Xiju, Dongyin, and Xiyin. It is administratively divided into four townships, earning it the nickname "Four Townships, Five Islands."
Historical Context
Due to the historical background of the Chinese Civil War, Lianjiang County was divided. The government of the Republic of China (ROC) re-established the Lianjiang County government in the Matsu Islands, while mainland China placed the original Lianjiang County under the jurisdiction of Fuzhou City. This resulted in the unique situation where two separate Lianjiang Counties exist today. In colloquial usage, people often differentiate them as "Mainland Lianjiang County" and "Matsu."
Geography and Natural Environment
The Matsu Islands are located off the estuary of the Minjiang River in Fujian Province, stretching 54 kilometers from north to south, with a total area of 28.8 square kilometers. The archipelago consists of various islands and reefs, including Dongyin, Xiyin, Liang Island, Gaodeng Island, Daqiu, Xiaoqiu, Beigan, Nangan, Xiju, and Dongju.
The largest island is Nangan, covering an area of 10.4 square kilometers, while the highest point in the county is Bi Mountain on Beigan Island. Due to its strategic geographical location, Matsu controls the entrance to the Minjiang River in Fujian, making it highly valuable militarily. It is situated 16 nautical miles west of Fuzhou, 114 nautical miles east of Keelung, Taiwan (90 nautical miles from Dongyin to Keelung), and 152 nautical miles south of Kinmen, serving as a key stronghold in the Taiwan Strait.
Climate Characteristics
Matsu has a subtropical monsoon climate with distinct seasons. Winters are cold, and summers are hot, with rainfall concentrated in the spring and summer. The coldest month is January, with an average temperature of 9.2°C, heavily influenced by the northeast monsoon, which brings strong winds and low temperatures. The hottest month is August, with an average temperature of 28.2°C and a humid climate. The annual average rainfall is 1,082.4 mm, with June receiving the highest rainfall (170.4 mm) and December the least (20.8 mm).
Economy and Development
Matsu was a long-standing military frontline, limiting its economic development. In recent years, efforts have been made to promote tourism by integrating local Min Dong culture, wartime history, and natural landscapes. Traditional settlements such as Qinbi Village have preserved Min Dong-style stone houses, earning it the nickname "Mini Mediterranean on the Sea." Additionally, Matsu's famous "Blue Tears" bioluminescent phenomenon attracts large numbers of visitors each spring and summer.
Matsu’s sorghum liquor industry is well-developed, renowned for its distinctive flavor and brewing techniques, making it one of the region's most iconic specialties. The area is also rich in seafood resources, particularly mussels, yellow croakers, and the famous Matsu Jiguang biscuits.
Cultural and Tourism Appeal
Lianjiang County (Matsu) blends wartime heritage, Min Dong traditions, and island culture. While it holds significant strategic and historical value, it has also actively developed tourism in recent years, becoming a popular offshore travel destination combining natural beauty and cultural charm. From the Min Dong architectural style of Qinbi Village to the military history of Beihai Tunnel and the enchanting "Blue Tears" phenomenon, Matsu offers a unique experience distinct from Taiwan’s main island.
