Matsu National Scenic Area Headquarters, Tourism Administration under Tourism Administration, Ministry of Transportation and Communications is promoting winter tourism in Matsu and exploring the island's dazzling scenery. The "Deer-lighting with You" opening ceremony was held at the Dahan Stronghold Observation Deck on the night of November 26. Distinguished guests included Deputy Director Lin Xin-Ren of the Tourism Administration, Legislative Assistant You Heng-Yi from Legislator Chen Xue-Sheng's office, Lienchiang County Mayor Wang Zhong-Ming, Lienchiang County Council Speaker Zhang Yong-Jiang, Nangan Township Chief Lin Zhi-Dong, and Matsu Tourism Industry Alliance Leader Yang Yao-Zhi. Together, they lit the inaugural lights, officially launching the four-month-long "Deer-lighting with You" event. This luminous carnival showcases Matsu's charm, inviting visitors to explore scenic spots by day and enjoy nighttime light tours, offering a unique and delightful experience.
Tourism Administration stated that Matsu National Scenic Area Headquarters was approved by the Executive Yuan on November 26, 1999, to become the sixth national-level scenic area in Taiwan. This year (2024) marks its 25th anniversary. Over the past 25 years, Matsu National Scenic Area Headquarters has reshaped the traditional Min Dong settlement landscape, revitalized Cold War-era military structures, guided the establishment of Taiwan's first local-level Geopark, created Matsu's only environmental education facility, and formed the Matsu Tourism Circle Industry Alliance. Through unique tourism resources such as the "blue tears," the sika deer of Daqiu Island, Mazu in Matsu, and Min Dong cultural festivals, Matsu National Scenic Area Headquarters has vigorously promoted Matsu Island's tourism development after the end of wartime governance. Thanks to these efforts, the number of annual visitors has grown significantly from under 40,000 to 220,000.
Additionally, it is worth mentioning that about 200 members have joined since the establishment of the Matsu Tourism Circle Industry Alliance in June 2022. Under the theme "Matsu Island, Truly Different," the alliance has cooperated with dozens of local souvenir, dining, and accommodation businesses to enhance the quality of tourism services, and has assisted four businesses in obtaining the Green Travel Label (GTS). The Tourism Bureau continues to promote sustainable tourism and digital transformation, aiming to ensure steady progress and connect Taiwan’s sustainable tourism development with global trends.
This year's event theme is "One Deer, With You," expressing gratitude to all the partners who have supported Matsu's tourism growth and looking forward to working together to create even brighter chapters. The concept is inspired by the sika deer of Daqiu Island in Beigan, incorporating light installation art and Matsu's unique cultural products to create seven thematic areas of illuminated environmental displays. The main light area, "One Deer, With You," showcases the sika deer family, offering a different experience of the installation art by day and night. Other highlights include the sparkling Matsu check-in sign "As Always," the cute "Smooth Sailing" version of Mazu, a sampan boat, seagulls, and a lighthouse, as well as the stunning "Along the Way" featuring Matsu's unique marine, land, and aerial landscapes. Additionally, there is the "Momentum" area with a military wartime style, and the "Dreams Fulfilled" area, featuring a colorful dome of lights. From November 26, visitors are welcome to enjoy the beautiful nightlight scenery of Matsu.
In addition to enjoying the nighttime lantern art displays, the Matsu National Scenic Area Administration also organized a "Winter Glow Market" in collaboration with local tourism industry partners. The market featured Matsu’s specialty foods, wines, souvenirs, and handmade crafts. Despite temperatures dropping to just 15°C during the event, it attracted around 400 to 500 visitors and locals, with enthusiasm remaining high. Moreover, unique performances, such as the "Flame War Drums" and the "World-Class Diabolo Performance by the Tiger Troupe," kept the crowd lingering long after the event ended.
To encourage visitors to share the beauty of the "Deer with You" scenic spot, the organizers have launched a photo check-in campaign, offering a "Market Stamp Card" as a reward. Visitors can collect stamps through purchases and redeem them for Matsu cultural and creative gifts. Additionally, visitors can present their flight or ferry tickets at the event service desk to exchange for limited-edition cultural and creative souvenirs. Over the next four months, Matsu tourism operators will also collaborate to launch a series of limited-time events. Everyone is invited to stay tuned to the " GO GO Matsu " official fan page and Matsu National Scenic Area Headquarters' official website for updates.
Please refer to the following website for more detailed information about related activities.
Matsu National Scenic Area Headquarters Official Website
Matsu National Scenic Area Headquarters Official Facebook Fan Page