Caipu'ao

A secret realm of sea-eroded wonders in Xiju. Caipu'ao, located at the end of Jianguo Road in the northeast of Xiju Island and belonging to Tianwo Village, features a typical cone-shaped granite coastal landscape. Long, slender, horizontally striated granite veins extend radially into the sea. Eroded by seawater, cliffs and dangerous reefs of varying sizes have formed, creating layers of waves. Therefore, the coastal terrain is very diverse, and the unique sea-eroded landscape is the greatest geographical feature of Caipu'ao Geopark. Before the completion of Qingfan Deepwater Wharf, Caipu'ao was Xiju's main summer port for entry and exit. During summer, when southerly winds and gusts reach level 7 or above, passenger and merchant ships must dock at Caipu'ao. Coupled with significant changes in surrounding ocean currents and abundant fishery resources, it is not only an excellent spot for sea fishing and shell collecting but also named for its abundant production of laver (seaweed). Every harvest season, a large rock along the coast, belonging to General Chen Temple, is opened for bidding. Only the winning bidder has the right to collect laver from the rock, which is a rather unique local custom in Matsu. Currently, the perimeter of the Caipu'ao outpost is open to visitors, but it is still guarded by the military. By following instructions, visitors can experience the joys and hardships of guarding the cape. Witness the Blue Tears in the Abandoned Battlefield of Xiju, Matsu. Caipu'ao's former observation platform, free from light pollution, is the best spot for night viewing and photographing Blue Tears. Looking down from the platform, the Blue Tears follow...