Uncovering Tamsui’s Beauty: River Views, Iconic Eateries, and Hidden Gems
#newyearnewtrip #travelanywhere Day 2 in Taiwan: After finishing our morning itinerary, we took the metro to Tamsui station in the afternoon, eager to explore this charming area known for its rich history and picturesque views. Our first stop was the iconic Tamsui Old Street (淡水老街), where we wandered through the lively street, enjoying the mix of traditional shops and local snacks. The old-world charm of the buildings and the hustle and bustle of the market made it a perfect spot to immerse ourselves in the local culture.
From there, we embarked on a leisurely 15-minute uphill walk to Tamsui Wenhua A-gei (文化阿給), a historic eatery famed for its connection to Jay Chou. It is said that he frequented this place during his student days, and they even offer a special “Jay Chou’s Set Menu.” This set, which includes agei (fried tofu stuffed with noodles), fishball soup, and a savory meat bun, was simple yet comforting—perfect for refueling after our stroll.
After our meal, we took some time to admire the breathtaking views of the Tamsui River and the surrounding mountains. It was a serene spot to reflect and relax, taking in the natural beauty of the area. To cool off, we indulged in a refreshing matcha kakigori with chewy dango at Asahi Huuhu (朝日夫婦), located right by the riverbank. The dessert was as delightful as the view, offering the perfect combination of sweet, creamy matcha and soft, chewy dango.
Next, we boarded a 30-minute ferry ride, which was incredibly affordable, to Bali Old Street (八里渡船頭老街). Bali offered a peaceful respite from the busier parts of the city, with small shops and cozy eateries lining the streets. We also explored the nearby Bali Left Bank Park (八里左岸公園), where we enjoyed the sight of locals paddling small boats along the beach. The tranquil atmosphere and stunning views of the river and mountains created a perfect moment of calm.
After soaking in Bali’s charms, we took the ferry back to the Tamsui area. As the ferry to Tamsui Fisherman’s Wharf (淡水漁人碼頭) wasn’t operating on Tuesdays, we opted for a bus ride instead. Arriving at the wharf, we leisurely strolled around Lover’s Bridge (情人橋) and the surrounding boardwalk, where the romantic ambiance was enhanced by the gentle breeze and scenic views. To warm up, we enjoyed a cup of local ginger tea—its comforting, spicy warmth was the perfect companion to the cool evening air.
Before wrapping up the day, we made one last stop at Tamsui Old Street to try the famous Grandma’s Milk Mochi (麻吉奶奶鮮奶麻糬), a local dessert known for its stretchy, chewy texture and dusting of peanut powder. It was the perfect way to satisfy our sweet cravings after a day of exploring.
We caught the early sunset around 5pm, taking in the stunning views of the river and mountains one last time before heading to other parts of Taipei. Tamsui had offered us a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and delicious food, making this an unforgettable day.
#couplestrip #travel #taiwan #myitinerary