Dadan Island: From Military Bastion to Symbol of Peace

Dadan Island, once a military stronghold, now offers tightly controlled tours showcasing its historic bunkers and slogans. Its transition from military focus to tourist site aims to symbolize peace amid Taiwan-China tensions. Since reopening in 2019, it's drawn tourists, despite existing geopolitical frictions.

Dadan Island, a former military site near China's coast, is emerging as a tourist attraction under Taiwan's controlled tours initiative. Renowned for its past resilience against Chinese forces, the island presents its historic defenses and the renowned slogan, 'Reunify China with the Three Principles of the People'.

Initially opened for tourism in 2019, Dadan Island suspended visits due to the COVID pandemic but has since welcomed approximately 25,000 visitors. Once a closed military zone, its historical significance and current status as a peace symbol attract local tourists, offering them an immersive experience despite basic facilities.

This year, the island was featured in Taiwan's TV show 'Zero Day Attack', highlighting its strategic role in defense. Through tourism, Kinmen's government seeks to showcase Dadan as a symbol of peace, moving beyond its militaristic past while maintaining awareness of Beijing-Taipei tensions.

(With inputs from agencies.)