Matsu’s Must-Try Spirits: Follow the Aroma to Nangan’s “Tunnel 88”

At the entrance of Tunnel 88, two rows of earthenware wine jars line the way, welcoming visitors with an intoxicating aroma of aged liquor that seems to soak your whole body. Inside, you’ll find both traditional jar-stored rice wine and Kaoliang liquor. Cylindrical storage towers hold various vintages such as Yuan Zun Aged Kaoliang, Vintage Kaoliang, and Aged Daqu, while rows of jars store matured rice wine—together forming a unique backdrop for photography.

Tunnel 88 was named in honor of Chiang Kai-shek’s 88th birthday. The granite tunnel stretches 200 meters and has had many uses over time—from a pirate shelter for early settlers, to a military tank tunnel, and even a telecom hub for Chunghwa Telecom. Today, it serves as a cool, stable-temperature (15–20°C) storage site for Matsu Distillery’s finest liquors. The constant temperature keeps the spirits richly aromatic and mellow.

After soaking in the fragrance, visitors can head over to the Matsu Distillery next door to explore award-winning liquors and limited-edition brews—and even sample a taste of the region’s finest spirits.

The entrance to Tunnel 88 on Nangan Island.

Interior view of Tunnel 88, showing the storage tanks and traditional wine jars used for aging liquor.