Tamsui is the place to see Taipei by the sea. The old port sits where the Tamsui River meets the Taiwan Strait, about forty minutes from the city centre on the red MRT line, and it has been a trading town and a window to the outside world for centuries. Spanish and Dutch traders built forts here in the 17th century, and Fort San Domingo, a red-brick fort with a British consulate beside it, is the best-preserved reminder of that era. Missionaries followed, and Tamsui’s old church, school and Western-style houses give the hillside a distinct character. Along the waterfront, the promenade is lined with snack stalls, street musicians and cafés, and the Old Street is famous for Tamsui specialities including fish ball soup, iron eggs, ah-gei (stuffed tofu in noodle) and fish crackers. Boats cross the river to Bali on the opposite bank, and the open water, passing ferries and low hills behind make this one of the most pleasant evening walks near Taipei. Most people come in the afternoon and stay for sunset, which is when the harbour is at its best.
How it works
Ride the red MRT line to its northern terminus at Tamsui station, which takes around forty minutes from Taipei Main Station, and walk from there. The promenade begins just outside the station. You can see the main sights on foot, and a self-guided walking tour with an audio guide is a low-cost way to learn the history while you stroll. Fort San Domingo and some other historic buildings have limited opening days, so check ahead before you plan around them, and expect a small fee for those that charge entry.
What to expect
The area is lively, particularly at weekends, with crowds around the Old Street and the ferry piers. The waterfront is flat and easy to walk, and the lane behind it climbs through narrow streets to the old church and school. Street food is the main event, with long queues at the most famous stalls.
Sunset is the highlight
The sky behind Guanyin mountain turns orange and pink, and the lights come on along the riverbank. Fisherman’s Wharf, a modern promenade with a curved footbridge, is a short walk or ferry ride along the water.
Making the most of it
Arrive mid-afternoon, explore the historic sites first, and save the food for later when the stalls are busiest. Take the short ferry to Bali for a different view back across the water, and stay for the lights after dark. Wear comfortable shoes, carry a light jacket for the breeze, and bring cash for snacks.
Weekdays are quieter, and the light is best in the late afternoon. If you have energy left, combine Tamsui with Beitou hot springs on the same day, since both are on the same MRT branch, or finish with a meal at a seafood restaurant on the water.
Cyclists can hire a bicycle and follow the riverside path towards Bali, which is flat, scenic and far quieter than the Old Street, and an easy way to use the last hour of daylight before dinner. Rain showers sweep in off the strait quickly, so keep a compact umbrella in your bag, and remember that the wind on the promenade can feel cooler than the temperature suggests.
What to expect
The experience
A riverside town to explore on foot, with a historic fort, snack stalls and ferry rides.
Best time
Mid-afternoon through sunset, on a clear day.
How long
Three to four hours.
Tips
Arrive mid-afternoon, check fort opening days and bring cash for snacks.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Sunset walks, history and snacks outside the city centre.
- Families
- Ferry rides and snack stalls suit children.
- Couples
- A sunset stroll and a riverside dinner.
- Pair with
- Beitou hot springs on the same MRT line.
- Time needed
- Three to four hours.
Good questions
How do I get to Tamsui from Taipei?+
Take the red MRT line to its terminus at Tamsui station, about forty minutes from Taipei Main Station.
What should I eat in Tamsui?+
Fish ball soup, iron eggs, ah-gei and fish crackers.
What is there to see?+
Fort San Domingo, the old church and school, the Old Street and the riverside promenade.
When is the best time to go?+
Mid-afternoon through sunset.
Can I take a ferry?+
Yes, ferries cross the river to Bali and Fisherman’s Wharf.
