Keqiutou Site Museum, a key cultural landmark in Pingtan [File photo]

The Keqiutou Site Museum in Pingtan, an island off the coast of eastern China's Fujian province and the closest place on the mainland to the island of Taiwan, has recently opened its doors, adding a significant cultural landmark to the region and providing a fresh perspective on Austronesian culture. For local guides like Ouyang Huafu and Zheng Hualin, the museum is not just a tourist attraction but a platform to share the rich prehistoric heritage of Pingtan with the world.

Ouyang Huafu, a native of Pingtan and the region's first nationally certified senior tour guide, has been showcasing the island's landscapes and culture since high school. After graduating from university, he returned to Pingtan and has spent over a decade in the cultural tourism industry. "Pingtan might have been the first stepping stone for the Austronesian maritime migration," Ouyang said. "The Keqiutou Site Museum allows us to tell the story of Pingtan's prehistoric culture to a wider audience."

Zheng Hualin, a seasoned guide, specializes in historical and cultural narratives. As a museum docent, she focuses on the Austronesian culture, detailing their migration from Southeast Asia to the Pacific islands. "This museum has become a 'superstar' in Pingtan's cultural tourism scene," Zheng said. "It captivates visitors with the depth of Austronesian culture and Pingtan's historical significance."

During the recent Spring Festival holiday, the museum saw a surge in visitors, becoming a must-see for cultural enthusiasts. To help visitors better understand the museum, Ouyang and Zheng have curated a guide to its three main exhibition halls.

First Exhibition Hall: Tracing Pingtan's Prehistoric Culture

Ouyang Huafu (right) explains the nautical technology of the Austronesian peoples to visitors.

The museum, located in Shangpan Village, spans 0.61 hectares and features three halls that explore the origins, development, and unique culture of the Austronesian people. The first hall, Born by the Sea—Pingtan Prehistoric Culture," uses advanced technology to recreate the lives of ancient inhabitants. A map on the wall marks 37 prehistoric sites discovered in Pingtan, including the 35,000-year-old Kuahai Village site.

Unearthed pottery artifacts on display

The Keqiutou Site Cluster, a 2023 national top archaeological discovery, includes the Xiying, Keqiutou, Donghuaqiu, and Guishan sites. Zheng explained, "The Xiying site, dating back 7,500 to 6,500 years, is one of the earliest Neolithic sites along Fujian's coast. The human remains found here, genetically linked to Austronesian populations, provide crucial evidence for their origins."

Eight-year-old visitor Li Haoran from Shanghai was thrilled. "I'm fascinated by prehistoric culture, and this museum has opened a door to my imagination," he said.

 Visitors exploring the Keqiutou Site Museum, which offers a window into the Austronesian culture [File photo]

At the Keqiutou site, Zheng highlighted its well-preserved structure, with distinct functional zones. "The northern highland was a residential area, while the southern part served as a garbage dump. The western trench protected against floods and wild animals," she said. Artifacts like jade rings and pottery reflect the inhabitants' craftsmanship and beliefs. The Donghuaqiu and Guishan sites each offer their own unique highlights. The Donghuaqiu site, spanning an impressive 200,000 square meters, features numerous postholes that tell the story of stilt-house architecture. The discovery of two distinct styles of pottery at the site provides compelling evidence of close cultural exchanges during that era. Meanwhile, the Guishan site stands out for its grand scale, serving as a high-status settlement and ceremonial center. A holographic projection vividly recreates ancient sacrificial scenes, transporting visitors back in time and allowing them to experience the rituals of a bygone era as if they were truly there.

Second Exhibition Hall: The Maritime Legacy of the Austronesian People

Visitors learn about ancient pottery artifacts.

The second hall, "Sailing with the Wind—Austronesian Navigation and Culture," immerses visitors in the seafaring adventures of the Austronesian people. A circular screen theater uses virtual reality engines and light shows to recreate their voyages. Zheng pointed out navigation tools on display, noting, "These artifacts, on loan from the Bowers Museum in the U.S., symbolize the Austronesian people's courage and wisdom."

Zhang Peili, a visitor from Quanzhou, was captivated. "I've always dreamed of a sailing adventure, and this exhibition truly showcases the Austronesian people's bravery and ingenuity," she said.

The hall also explores the migration of Austronesian people from Pingtan to Taiwan and their cultural connections. "Scholars have proven that Taiwan's indigenous peoples, who belong to the Austronesian language family, originated from China's southeastern coast," Ouyang explained.

Third Exhibition Hall: Artistic Treasures of the Austronesian Culture

Display of bark cloth, an ancient fabric traditionally made by the Austronesian peoples

The third hall, "Austronesian Artistry—Treasures from the Bowers Museum," showcases 186 artifacts loaned from the California-based museum. Divided into ritual art, body adornments, and utilitarian objects, the exhibits offer a glimpse into the Austronesian people's artistic and daily lives.

Chen Jinyi, a local resident, was impressed. "These artworks are exquisite and full of mystery, giving me a deeper understanding of Austronesian culture," she said.

Body adornments made from shells served not only as decorations but also as currency and marriage dowries. Zheng explained, "These necklaces and nose ornaments carry unique cultural meanings." The utilitarian section displayed weapons, shields, and social items like betel nuts and kava bowls, illustrating their daily lives.

As the tour concluded, Ouyang invited visitors to explore the museum further. "There are endless stories and cultural treasures here. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for an interesting place to visit, you'll leave with a wealth of knowledge," he said.