Tamsui Old Street Introduction
When you exit Tamsui MRT Station and turn right, you will find yourself on Zhongzheng Road, which extends into Chongjian Street and Qingshui Street, and this area is well-known as Tamsui Old Street. Tamsui Old Street has long been a popular tourist destination in Taiwan, attracting many foreigners as well. The streets are lined with lively shops, featuring traditional pastry shops and grocery stores, as well as trendy clothing and toy shops. A must-try delicacy in Tamsui is Ah-gei, which is derived from the Japanese pronunciation of "fried tofu." It is made by hollowing out the fried tofu, filling it with stir-fried noodles, soaking it in braised sauce, sealing it with fish paste, and steaming it before drizzling with sweet and spicy sauce or the shop's secret sauce. Other featured snacks include fish balls, A-po's铁蛋, and fish crisps, along with many historical sites to explore, making it an enjoyable experience. Tamsui Old Street is divided into two sides: the outer side, adjacent to the Tamsui River, features the Golden Riverside promenade, while the inner side boasts traditional old streets filled with shops. In the evening, visitors can enjoy a beautiful sunset over the sea along the Golden Riverside promenade. Chongjian Street, located on a hillside, developed early, so many wooden and brick houses still stand along the sides. At the end of the street, you can get a panoramic view of the Tamsui River estuary. Due to commercial development, another street parallel to Chongjian Street formed, primarily focusing on rice shops and milling, known as "Mi Shizai" (now the northern segment of Qingshui Street), which was later renamed Qingshui Street after the Qingshui Temple was built. Continuing along Zhongzheng Road towards the old street, you will see the statue park of Dr. Mackay, who had a significant impact on Tamsui, along with historical sites like Qingshui Temple, Fuyou Temple, Huwei Mackay Clinic, and Tamsui Church. The old street is not only a place to seek scenic spots but also an excellent place to shop and enjoy delicious food at unique shops.
