Classic Kinmen Travel

I reviewed this place over a year ago, but since then I've visited Jincheng about four more times and I've realized it's actually a nice little town. It's definitely not as pretty, quiet, quaint, or fascinating as the villages dotted around the island, but there are good reasons to visit Jincheng (and not just to use the bus station or free bikes!). First, it has the most/best restaurants. That's not to say the food is good, because it's generally mediocre, but you're not going to find much in the villages. There are actually some noodle shops that offer great beef noodle soup, much better than what you'd find in mainland China, along with normal Chinese restaurants serving local fish/seafood and other tasty dishes. There are also a considerable number of bakeries and milk tea shops to satisfy any sweet tooth. The architecture may pale in comparison to the villages, but there's still some nice looking buildings here and there. I recommend walking through the little alleyways in town to discover traditional homes and neat little shrines. The underground tunnel museum, which I have not done yet, is also in town and is located on the second floor of the bus station. If you're looking for something specific, you can go to the little tourist booth at the bus station and they're very happy to help you, though their English is quite limited. They also have lots of free maps. Otherwise, just wander around inner part of town and discover things by yourself. There are also a few signs in English/Chinese dotted around. If you like, the tourist office at the bus station also lends bicycles... for free! My favorite thing about Jincheng is the annual City God Festival in May where many locals parade the streets in costumes/masks, shooting fireworks, carrying dolled-up children in tiny ancient sedans, and making lots of music/noise. It's all quite surreal and fun and I highly recommend attending it if you get the chance! It's held April 12 of the **Chinese lunar calendar**, not the normal western calendar, so you will need to convert it to the normal western calendar and that date changes every year. The parade starts early afternoon and lasts for several hours. No need looking up a parade route; just follow your ears once you're in town.

its the township downtown ... good place to kill time and mingle with the locals, some local stores and restaurants

Kinmen City (金城) is the least interesting town on the island as it is the largest, most modern, and least charming. It's better to spend your time in other villages and sites. However, Kinmen City has the most restaurants, shops, and buses, so it's still quite important for travelers to Jinmen. You may find that the village you are staying in has only one restaurant and that it closes after 6 pm, so Kinmen City is a great place for dinner and has so much more dining options than any other village.