Tamsui Old Street

Overview

Tamsui Old Street is a bustling riverside promenade and historic waterfront district at the mouth of the Tamsui River, combining Dutch and Spanish colonial ruins, street food, and some of Taipei's most spectacular sunsets.

Highlights

• Fort San Domingo: A 17th-century Spanish fortress later used by the Dutch, British, and Japanese — now a museum and national monument.
• Sunset Views: The Tamsui waterfront is considered the best place in the Greater Taipei area to watch the sunset over the Taiwan Strait.
• Iron Eggs: Tamsui's signature snack — quail eggs braised and air-dried repeatedly until black and chewy.

History

Tamsui was one of Taiwan's most important trading ports from the 17th through 19th centuries, occupied successively by the Spanish, Dutch, and British. The opening of Keelung port in the early 20th century ended its commercial dominance.

Visitor Tips

• MRT Direct: Take the Red Line to the terminus at Tamsui Station — the waterfront is a 5-minute walk.
• Fisherman's Wharf: Take the ferry across to Fisherman's Wharf for the Lover's Bridge and even better sunset views.
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours.