【Live Footage】 Special Feature on Live Cameras at the Tense Frontline between China and Taiwan

Tension Adjacent to Daily Life: Reflecting on Kinmen Island through Live Cameras

Have you heard of “Kinmen Island”? It is a small island floating in the Taiwan Strait, where you can see the Chinese mainland just a stone’s throw away. It is also known as the powder keg of East Asia. In the past, fierce battles ravaged this island, claiming the lives of many soldiers. Even now, it stands at the frontline where the tension between China and Taiwan can be felt.
Since 1949, Kinmen Island has remained a frontline island for half a century, turning the entire island into a fortress. The trenches spread throughout the island, the countless tanks and military facilities standing quietly, are historical witnesses to the fierce battles of the past. Against the backdrop of a beautiful sunset, their silhouettes seem to convey a strong message to us: the preciousness of peace, the folly of war, and the strong will to never let those memories fade.
The live footage from the current live cameras on Kinmen Island shows a calm sea, an endless blue sky, and the people living there with strength. While keeping the memories of past battles in their hearts, the people moving forward towards the future give us hope.
On the other hand, Taipei, the center of Taiwan, is filled with skyscrapers and bustling energy. The live cameras on the street corners convey the energy and enthusiasm of the people living there.
Currently, the situation surrounding Taiwan and China is once again tense. However, even in such times, people around the world watching the unchanged scenery of Kinmen Island in real-time might be a small step towards peace that each of us can take.

The Miracle of Kinmen Island: The Charm of the “Jiangong Islet” Live Camera

The live camera on Jiangong Islet captures the changing appearance of the island in real-time, influenced by the ebb and flow of the tide. During low tide, a stone-paved path leading to the island appears as if the sea has parted. Witness this mystical scenery, also known as the “Kinmen Island version of Moses’ Ten Commandments,” through the live camera. After the tide recedes, it is an excellent opportunity to observe creatures like crabs and shells that are usually not seen. At sunset, the setting sun dyes the island and the stone-paved path orange, creating a breathtakingly beautiful landscape. The changing colors of the sky and the fantastic silhouette are the unique charms of the live camera. The statue of Zheng Chenggong, the symbol of the island, is built to face the statue in Xiamen on the Chinese mainland, evoking a sense of historical romance.

Exclusive View of Kinmen Island’s Scenic Beauty! The Highland 134 Live Camera

Highland 134, overlooking the highest peak of Kinmen Island, Taiwu Mountain. This place, which once played an important role as a military base, now has a live camera that captures the scenic beauty of Kinmen Island.
The charm of the Highland 134 live camera is the overwhelming panoramic view captured by the 4K high-definition lens. To the east is the majestic Taiwu Mountain, below is the beautiful Tai Lake, and beyond that, the new city and the blue sea spread out. You can see Success Beach and the Golden Gate Bridge shining in golden color, offering a view of about three-quarters of Kinmen Island’s landscape.
During the day, you can watch planes flying overhead and the sea sparkling in the sunlight, and at night, you can gaze at the starry sky. It is also moving to think about the history of communicating with surrounding islands using light signals from this place.

Live Camera Showing the Ecology of Waterbirds and Historical Battle Sites in Kinmen National Park

The live camera in Kinmen National Park particularly highlights the summer bird of Kinmen Island, the Blue-tailed Bee-eater. You can observe its vivid appearance and active ecology up close with the high-definition live camera. During the breeding season from April to July each year, you can witness touching scenes from nest building to raising chicks.
The live camera also shows the Cihu Triangle Fortress, a former military fortress. You can see the solid structure made of stone and concrete, observation posts, and shooting ports, which still retain the tension of wartime. This area is also an important habitat for many waterbirds. Known as a stopover site for migratory birds, it offers a rich natural landscape that changes with the seasons.

Spectacular View of Taipei from the Xiangshan Live Camera

Taipei, the political and economic center of Taiwan. This live camera overlooks the cityscape.
The live camera is installed at the popular tourist spot, Xiangshan Observatory. The breathtaking view of the sky and cityscape that changes with time is a must-see. The daytime scenery with white clouds floating in the blue sky, the cityscape dyed in warm orange at sunset, and the glittering neon lights at night each show different beauty. Especially on New Year’s Eve, many photographers visit here to capture the countdown fireworks. You might witness that dazzling moment in real-time through the live camera.

Time Travel to the Nostalgic Streets of Daxi Old Street

The live camera on Daxi Old Street streams the charm of Daxi Old Street, which is condensed with Taiwan’s history and culture, 24/7. Daxi was the earliest developed area in Taoyuan City and flourished as a trade center through the waterways leading to the Tamsui River via the Dahan River. The live camera also shows the lively scenes of Heping Old Street. The well-preserved old houses and the many specialty shops lining the streets allow you to observe the bustling scenes with locals and tourists. Through this live camera, you can enjoy the charm of Daxi Old Street, where Taiwan’s history and culture are alive, regardless of time or place. The coexistence of the old streets and modern vitality gives you a sense of time travel.

Exciting Live Broadcast of Takeoffs and Landings at Taoyuan Airport

The live camera at Taiwan’s largest international airport, Taoyuan International Airport, is filmed from an excellent viewpoint. The wide field of view allows you to see the north and south runways, surrounding terminal buildings, and airport facilities. The camera is very close to the runway, allowing you to experience the thrilling moments of aircraft takeoffs and landings up close. You can observe various aircraft movements in detail, such as the graceful takeoff of large passenger planes and smooth landings. This live camera operates 24/7, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful sight of planes shining in the morning and evening sun, as well as the fantastic night scenes. Watch the dynamic scenes of the gateway connecting the world and Taiwan in real-time.

Experience the Intersection of Past and Present in Hong Kong’s Streets through Live Cameras

Hong Kong became a British colony after the Opium War in 1842. On July 1, 1997, it was returned to China, and under the “one country, two systems” policy, it was granted a high degree of autonomy as a special administrative region of the People’s Republic of China. China and Taiwan have strengthened their economic ties while using Hong Kong as a window to each other. In recent years, as China’s influence in Hong Kong has increased, concerns about the future of “one country, two systems” and Hong Kong’s freedom and autonomy have grown. This has caused distrust of China among the people of Taiwan. The relationship between China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong will continue to be unpredictable. The rise of China, the US-China confrontation, and the democratization movement in Hong Kong are all intertwined, making the future uncertain.

Hong Kong live footage▶▶▶

One Country, Two Systems Seen from the Live Camera of Senado Square in Macau

This square, named “Senado” (Senate) in Portuguese, carries a long and complex history that is unimaginable from its lively appearance seen through the live camera.
Since the Portuguese landed in Macau in the mid-16th century, Senado Square has served as a crossroads where Eastern and Western cultures meet. At that time, Portugal was allowed to use Macau as a trading post with Ming China. The pastel-colored neoclassical buildings surrounding the square were built during that era, creating a unique Macau landscape that blends European and Asian architectural styles.
This square also symbolizes the characteristics of Macau’s “one country, two systems.” While maintaining a political and economic system different from mainland China, it represents Macau’s uniqueness as a special administrative region under Chinese sovereignty. This is a policy that China is also proposing in its relationship with Hong Kong and Taiwan, aiming to balance regional autonomy and China’s unity.
Considering the complex situation surrounding China and Taiwan, Senado Square holds more than just a tourist attraction. The existence of Macau, which has its own culture and history while being part of China, provides a perspective for thinking about the relationship between China and Taiwan.

The Relationship between Taiwan and China and the Background and Timeline of Kinmen Island

From 1945 to 1949, a civil war broke out on the Chinese mainland between the Chinese Communist Party led by Mao Zedong and the Chinese Nationalist Party (Kuomintang) led by Chiang Kai-shek. The Nationalist government, defeated by the Communist Party, retreated to Taiwan in 1949 and made Taipei its temporary capital. At this time, the Nationalists also took control of islands along the Chinese mainland coast, including Kinmen Island and Matsu Island. Kinmen Island is located just a few kilometers from the Chinese mainland, facing Taiwan across the Taiwan Strait. Due to its strategic position, Kinmen Island was regarded as the “gateway to Taiwan” and played a role as the frontline for Taiwan’s defense.

【Exploration】The Current State of Kinmen Island, the Frontline of Taiwan’s Defense

1949: The Chinese Nationalist government retreats to Taiwan.

Kinmen Island comes under the control of the Nationalists. Subsequently, sporadic battles occur around Kinmen Island between the Nationalist army, supported by the United States, and the Chinese People’s Liberation Army, influenced by the Korean War.

1954-1955: The First Taiwan Strait Crisis

The Chinese People’s Liberation Army begins shelling Kinmen Island and other areas. The United States declares its support for Taiwan, and tensions rise.

1958: The Second Taiwan Strait Crisis

The Chinese People’s Liberation Army once again launches large-scale shelling on Kinmen Island and other areas. The United States reaffirms its support for Taiwan, and the tense situation continues.

1979: Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between the United States and the People’s Republic of China

The “Sino-American Mutual Defense Treaty” between the United States and the Republic of China (Taiwan) is terminated.

1995-1996: The Third Taiwan Strait Crisis

The United States issues a visa to Taiwanese President Lee Teng-hui, prompting the People’s Republic of China to conduct missile tests and military exercises around the Taiwan Strait in retaliation. The U.S. also dispatches aircraft carriers.

2000: Chen Shui-bian of the Democratic Progressive Party becomes President

The Democratic Progressive Party, which advocates for Taiwan independence, comes to power. This leads to increased pressure from China.

2005: China enacts the Anti-Secession Law

China declares its stance to use military force if necessary to prevent Taiwan’s independence, both domestically and internationally.

2008: Ma Ying-jeou of the Kuomintang becomes President

Relations between Taiwan and China improve due to the Kuomintang’s conciliatory approach towards China.

2016: Tsai Ing-wen of the Democratic Progressive Party becomes President

Relations between Taiwan and China cool down again due to the administration’s tough stance on China.

2022: U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visits Taiwan

China reacts strongly and conducts large-scale military exercises around Taiwan.

2024: Lai Ching-te of the Democratic Progressive Party becomes President

Following a fishing boat incident involving China near Kinmen Island, China’s military activities in the Taiwan Strait intensify.