Tamsui Old Street Introduction
After exiting Tamsui MRT Station and turning right, you will find yourself on Zhongzheng Road and the adjacent reconstructed streets of Jhongjian and Qingshui, where the famous Tamsui Old Street is located. "Tamsui Old Street" has long been a well-known tourist attraction in Taiwan, attracting many foreign visitors as well. Along both sides of the street, you will find lively shops filled with traditional snack shops, 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 fried tofu, filling it with stir-fried vermicelli, soaking it in a flavorful broth, sealing it with fish paste, and then steaming it. Finally, it is topped with sweet chili sauce or the shop's secret sauce. Other local specialties include fish balls, A-po's iron eggs, and crispy fish snacks, along with many historical sites to explore, ensuring there is always something to enjoy. Tamsui Old Street is divided into two sides: the outer side is along the golden waterfront promenade by the Tamsui River, while the inner side is the traditional old street filled with shops selling local snacks and trendy items. In the evening, visitors can enjoy the beautiful sunset views over the sea from the golden waterfront promenade. Jhongjian Street, located on the hillside, developed earlier and still has many old wooden and brick houses lining its sides. At the end of the street, you can get a panoramic view of the Tamsui River estuary. Later, due to commercial development, a parallel street emerged, primarily consisting of rice shops and rice milling businesses, hence it was called "Rice Market" (currently the northern section of Qingshui Street). After the construction of the Qingshui Temple, Rice Market Street was renamed Qingshui Street. Walking along Zhongzheng Road towards the old street, you will see the statue of Dr. Mackay in Mackay Park, which has significantly influenced Tamsui, along with historical sites such as Qingshui Temple, Fuyou Palace, Huwei Mackay Clinic, and Tamsui Church. In addition to exploring picturesque sites in the old street, the unique shops within are a great place for shopping and enjoying delicious food.
