Tamsui Old Street

Tamsui is a town rich in history. Located at the mouth of the Tamsui River system in the Taipei Basin, it guards the gateway to northern Taiwan. It opened as a commercial port in 1858, making it the earliest developed port in northern Taiwan. Besides the narrow plain at the Tamsui River mouth, most of its territory is covered by the Datun Mountain range. Today's Tamsui District was formerly known as "Hobe." "Tamsui" itself is a general term, referring to the area around the Tamsui River basin, and even all of northern Taiwan. There are two theories regarding the origin of the name "Hobe": one suggests it's a phonetic transliteration from the Ketagalan indigenous language, whose people originally resided here; another theory posits that Tamsui formerly had many stone fish weirs (石滬), and the village at the end of these weirs was naturally called "Hobe" (滬尾, 'weir's end'). As the port gradually developed, the name "Tamsui" progressively replaced "Hobe." Although the bustling scene of merchant ships is no longer present, walking along Tamsui's streets, one finds old Western, Fujianese, and Japanese-style buildings, each seemingly recounting the town's long past—from the Spanish occupation in 1629 and the Dutch invasion in 1642, through the Qing dynasty rule, to the historical events of the Japanese colonial era. Visiting Tamsui, a leisurely stroll is an excellent way to enjoy it. Areas around Zhongzheng Road, Zhenli Street, Chongjian Street, Sanmin Street, and Qingshui Street best showcase the old street's ancient charm and architectural features from various periods. Visitors can take ferries traveling between Tamsui and Bali, and Tamsui and Dadaocheng, taking in the full scenic beauty of the Tamsui River. What is generally referred to as Tamsui Old Street primarily covers the area around Zhongzheng Road (from near the ferry pier to the intersection with Zhongshan Road), including adjacent streets like Sanmin Street and Chongjian Street. Along the old street, one can sporadically spot houses that partially preserve the charm of old architecture. Coupled with numerous antique and art shops, this further enhances its rustic charm. Along the street, visitors can admire exquisitely carved stone and wood artworks, antique artifacts carefully collected by shop owners over many years, elegant calligraphy and paintings, and various decorative art pieces. Watching the river, gazing at the mountains, and taking boat rides – these ancient pastimes extend to the present day. With attractions like the Tamsui River, the ferry pier, and Fisherman's Wharf, combined with the convenience of the MRT, the allure of Tamsui Old Street is irresistible.