Kinmen, which means Golden Gate, is often viewed as the gateway to Taiwan. Controlled by the government of Taiwan, Kinmen is a small island in the Taiwan Strait located between Taiwan and mainland China. The island is often referred to as Kinmen City, but the county of Kinmen is actually made up of several islets. Home to traditional Min buildings, Kinmen has become a popular tourist destination. Many visitors to Kinmen prefer to reside at minsu accommodations rather than high-rise or luxury hotels. Minsu offers travelers a more culturally authentic and immersive experience. Similar to small inns or B&Bs, minsu feature fewer rooms than hotels (usually 5 to 10) and fewer staff members.
If you want to find out what it’s like to live like a local in Kinmen City, consider reserving a minsu stay with Agoda. Many of the Kinmen’s best minsu are conveniently located near scenic sites and popular attractions. You can also rely on Agoda to book your accommodations throughout Taiwan.
Kinmen City Overview
Kinmen City is just a mere few miles from China. Outside of Kinmen‘s touristy areas, English is rarely spoken. Most locals speak Min as well as Mandarin. During the middle of the last century, fierce fighting between Chinese Communists and Nationalists left its mark on Kinmen in the form of numerous military installations.
Rather than an atmosphere of a military demarcation zone, Kinmen and its surrounding rural islets feel more like a holiday destination. Travelers from all over the world fly to Kinmen to enjoy its cultural attractions and eco-friendly atmosphere. Kinmen, for example, is celebrated for its otters and horseshoe crabs. Travelers enjoy visiting its landmarks as well as exploring its coasts and enchanting landscapes.
Minsu Experience in Kinmen: Stay in an Architectural Mansion
Minsu is Taiwan’s answer to English B&Bs. Rather like inns, they offer guests a home-like atmosphere that’s much less impersonal than one expects at a hotel. Many minsu feature shared kitchens that allow guests to cook meals for themselves or even for large groups. While minsu guests can relax in their private rooms, they are also encouraged to enjoy the public spaces like family rooms and outdoor patios and courtyards where seating is available. Minsu are often owned and operated by families. Staff members are attentive and help guests to arrange visits to area attractions or to find local transportation and guides.
Naya’s House
A 4-star property, Naya’s House offers guests a quintessential minsu experience. Located in the Jincheng area, this minsu is just a couple miles from the Kinmen Airport and features Wi-Fi in each room. In addition to its comfortable and clean rooms, Naya’s House is outfitted with a patio space where guests can relax outdoors surrounded by plants and lounge seating.
O Share Sweet 1
A lovely 5-star property, O Share Sweet 1 is situated in the Jinning area of Kinmen City and boasts many traditional decorative touches that will acquaint guests with what it’s like to live in the city. Within easy distance of the beach and a nearby distillery, the minsu is also located near the famed Kinmen Airport. Guests who choose this rental property will find clean and inviting rooms with comfortable beds and Wi-Fi. The minsu’s public spaces like its family room and patio are welcoming and complement the friendly ambience of the venue.
Hotel Iris
Brimming with a traditional Kinmen atmosphere, Hotel Iris is a great minsu option with its upper story terrace that’s perfect for lounging and charming public spaces. The minsu features a shared kitchen for guests who enjoy cooking as well as plenty of seating indoors and outside. Rooms are designed with basic comforts and Wi-Fi is available in each room. English and Mandarin are spoken at the hotel.
Mount Taiwu Cozy B&B
Clean and cozy, the aptly named Mount Taiwu Cozy B&B offers guests a relaxing stay in its central location. Guests can expect comfortable rooms with Wi-Fi and an attentive staff. The minsu features comfortable public indoor and outdoor spaces where they can mingle with other guests, read, or enjoy the quiet. The outdoor courtyard is the perfect place to enjoy a morning breakfast or late meal. This minsu is located in the Jinhu area of Kinmen and is within easy distance of the Kinmen Airport.
Otters Home
A beautifully maintained traditional minsu, Otters Home is a 4-star property that is located near the Kinmen Airport. Some of its rooms are equipped with air conditioning as well as small refrigerators. Guests will find lovely rooms with wooden doors and shutters. There are bunks available as well as more spacious beds. The nature of the minsu’s floorplan makes it feel like staying at a charming old inn. While many minsu take pains to include modern touches, Otters Home features just the right amount of old-world touches to make it quaint yet wonderfully comfortable.
Shin Long Tou B&B
Shin Long Tou B&B is a 5-star property that’s conveniently located near Kinmen Airport and also features airport transfer services. Guests can expect comfortable rooms with Wi-Fi and many wonderfully traditional decorative touches like lanterns and potted plants. Clean and well maintained, the minsu features public spaces that are filled with seating and entertainment features like a big screen TV. Guests who are envisioning a traditional minsu experience will not be disappointed with this venue.
Things to Do in Kinmen City
Visitors to Kinmen City will find that since many of the island’s best-known sites are located outside of the city, they’ll need to rent a bicycle or procure taxi service to visit them. The city itself is easy to traverse on foot and offers an eclectic array of shops and restaurants to enjoy. As you plan your Kinmen City travel itinerary, you may want to include some of the following things to do during your visit:
Shanhou Folk Culture Village
The Shanhou Folk Culture Village features traditional homes in the Min style that are well over 100 years old. Visitors can explore the open houses to witness their architectural details and period decor. There are also a few antique shops in the area that are popular with visitors.
Juguang Tower
Juguang Tower offers arresting views of Kinmen‘s coast. From the top of the tower, visitors can also glimpse the skyscrapers in the Chinese city of Xiamen. The landmark also features exhibits and information about the history of China’s civil war period and Kinmen’s part in the fray.
Mofan Street
Travelers who enjoy shopping and mingling will want to stroll down Mofan Street. There are many traditional and eclectic cafes and restaurants as well as shops and traditional snack stands.
Zhaishan Tunnel
Although many visitors enjoy relaxing on Kinmen‘s beaches, some make their way underground to Zhaishan Tunnel where they can witness military vessels. The tunnel is also the site of frequent concerts, especially during the autumn season.
Taiwu Mountain
The highest mountain in Kinmen, Taiwu features dazzling views of the surrounding terrain and sea from its summit. Climbers who reach the top will find a cafe and temple. There are also many lovely lookout points and other points of interest along the trail.
Travelers enjoy visiting Kinmen because of its many points of interest, lovely beaches, and unique cultural appeal. When you visit Agoda, you can find many traditional minsu that will provide you with an immersive local experience. You can also search Agoda to find hotels and resorts all over the world
