西尾半島物產店

Xiwei Peninsula Specialty Store is more than just a shop; it is a wonderful combination of a cozy restaurant and a boutique for local products. Located in Nangan on the picturesque island of the Matsu archipelago, this destination attracts travelers with its authentic atmosphere and unique architectural style. The establishment occupies a former manor house built in the traditional Mindong style, where massive stone walls are harmoniously complemented by modern decor.

Xiyu Peninsula Specialty Store. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

Inside, the space is divided into two functional zones. The first floor is dedicated to the shop, where you can purchase unique souvenirs and products for which Taiwan and specifically the Matsu region are famous: from specialty coarse salt to artisanal pastes. The second floor has been transformed into a spacious, bright dining area with panoramic windows offering a mesmerizing view of the sea.

One of the main features of Xiwei is its culinary concept. They promote local gastronomy, offering guests dishes prepared from the island's freshest ingredients. The interior, complete with bamboo pillows and bookshelves, encourages long, contemplative relaxation, making it an ideal spot for those wanting to escape the city bustle and feel the true spirit of island life.

To confirm details before your visit or to book a table (especially during high season), it is recommended to contact the staff in advance. As it is a small and popular spot, calling ahead is always a good idea.

The main adventure here is gastronomic. Visitors can try the signature dry curry, the flavor of which changes daily depending on available ingredients. Local specialties deserve special attention: for example, crispy Jiguang cakes (jiguangbing) served with clam paste, sour cream, and honey, or an unusual dessert—Basque cheesecake with seaweed. Even ordinary tea becomes exotic here if ordered with traditional aged wine.

Beyond the food, the shop is a pleasant place just to spend time. You can choose a table by the panoramic window or settle on the balcony to watch the seascape. Attention to detail is evident everywhere: even the spoons are made from real shells, adding a special charm to the meal. For book lovers, the second floor houses a collection of books that you can browse while relaxing on bamboo seats.

Before leaving, be sure to check out the shopping area on the first floor. This is an excellent place to hunt for authentic souvenirs. They sell unique pastes, sea salt, and other products that allow you to take a piece of Matsu's flavors home with you.

The establishment is located in a quiet and picturesque corner of Nangan, in the Furen area. It is quite easy to find if you head towards the Matsu Blue Tears Ecological Museum—the shop is located right behind it in a small, hidden alleyway. Follow the signs leading to the "tail" of the peninsula to ensure you don't miss this cozy spot.

A journey to Nangan usually begins with a ferry or a flight from Taipei or other major cities in the region. Once on the island, you can take a taxi, rent a scooter (the most popular way to get around), or board a local bus heading toward the Furen area.

The shop does not have its own dedicated parking, but you can usually find a spot to park nearby. GPS coordinates will help you precisely map your route to this authentic location.

The building that houses the Xiwei Peninsula Specialty Store today has a rich past. It previously served as the residence of Lin Yi-he, who was popularly known as the "Sea Falcon." It is a classic example of Mindong architecture—a two-story stone house that has stood against the sea winds for decades.

The name "Xiwei" (西尾) itself refers to the historical name of Xiweicun village. Translated, it means "West Tail," which geographically describes the location of this part of the Matsu peninsula. Thus, the store's name emphasizes its inseparable connection to the local land and traditions.

The restaurant and shop are the result of a careful restoration of the old manor. The creators managed to preserve the historical appearance of the stone walls while integrating modern comforts. This site is considered one of the best examples of historic building revitalization on the island, where cultural heritage is transformed into a living space for gastronomy and relaxation.

To fully enjoy the atmosphere of this place, we recommend setting aside 1 to 2 hours for your visit. This is enough time to have a leisurely lunch, browse the selection of goods on the first floor, and relax with a sea view.

Many guests prefer to linger longer, immersing themselves in a book or simply contemplating the ocean from the balcony. If you appreciate slow travel and want to feel the island's rhythm of life, don't schedule your next itinerary points too closely—this place is perfect for serenity.

Operating hours for the shop and restaurant vary by day. On weekdays (except Wednesday), the establishment is typically open from 10:30 AM to 6:00 PM. On weekends (Saturday and Sunday), hours are extended until 8:00 PM, allowing guests to enjoy dinner during sunset.

Please note that Wednesday is a scheduled day off. As the schedule may change depending on holidays or seasonal conditions, it is recommended to check the official social media page for updated information before your visit.

A visit to the specialty store can easily be combined with exploring other interesting sites on the island. Since the establishment is located in a historically significant and naturally beautiful area, a walk through the surroundings will offer many additional experiences.