Introducing Freshwater
Tamsui District, located on the northwest coast of New Taipei City, Taiwan, sits north of the Tamsui River's estuary. It borders Sanzhi District to the north, Beitou District of Taipei City to the south, the Taiwan Strait to the west, and Bali District to the southwest, separated by the Tamsui River. Its scenic beauty, encompassing rivers and mountains, has long been recognized as one of Taiwan's Eight Scenic Spots, and was once known as the "Venice of the East."
Most Popular FAQs for freshwater
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Tamsui (Danshui) historically was an important port and gateway in northern Taiwan. Over centuries it was controlled by Spanish, Dutch, British, and Chinese powers, reflected in its mix of colonial architecture. It has long been a cultural, trade, and river access point adjacent to Taipei.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
Tamsui is in northern New Taipei City, at the mouth of the Tamsui River. You can reach it via the Taipei MRT Red Line (ending at Tamsui Station) from central Taipei. From the station, many attractions are walkable. Ferries and buses serve connections to Wharf and wharf-side areas.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- Most attractions and museums open around 9:00 AM and close around 5:00–6:00 PM.
- The riverside promenade and Old Street are accessible at all hours; sunset is particularly beautiful.
- Best times: spring and autumn for comfortable weather and clearer skies.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
Many streetside attractions and promenades are free. Specific museums (e.g. Fort San Domingo) charge modest admission. You can buy tickets on-site, and some museums or tourist platforms offer online booking in advance.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Generally not necessary to book in advance except during peak time (weekends, holidays). For popular museums or ferry rides, booking a day ahead is sufficient.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
A full day allows you to hit the main highlights (Old Street, Fort, Wharf, museums). If you linger at cafés or explore side alleys, 1.5 days is better.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Tamsui Riverside Promenade & Ferry Pier
- Tamsui Old Street
- Fort San Domingo
- Fisherman’s Wharf & Lover’s Bridge
- Chi Po-lin Museum
- Teng Feng Fish Ball Museum
- Tamsui Red Castle
- Drop of Water Memorial Hall
- Tamsui Customs Wharf
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided walking tours are available via local tour agencies, often in Mandarin and English. Some museums provide audio guides in multiple languages.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- Sunset from the riverside promenade or Fisherman's Wharf (Lover’s Bridge)
- Fort San Domingo terrace overlooking the river
- Red Castle’s façade
- Piers and waterfront walkways
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Start at Tamsui Station → walk to Old Street → visit Fort San Domingo → head to Chi Po-lin Museum → go to Fisherman’s Wharf via ferry or bus → return via Red Castle and customs wharf areas → end with sunset by the water.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
Evening is lively at Old Street and the riverside with night markets, street performances, and lights at the Wharf’s Lover’s Bridge. Some museums may host evening events.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
It’s busiest on weekends and holiday evenings, especially at popular spots. Weekdays and early mornings have fewer crowds.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
Facilities are good: public restrooms, cafés, snack stalls, souvenir shops along Old Street and piers, visitor centers in museums. Water fountains are available in many areas.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
Many paths are flat and accessible; piers, museums and forts often have ramps or accessible routes. Some streets and older buildings might have steps or uneven ground.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
Cash is accepted everywhere; credit cards and mobile payment methods (e.g. EasyCard) are also widely accepted, especially at cafés and museums.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Old Street snack stalls (A-gei, iron eggs, fried squid)
- Riverside cafés with view seating
- Red Castle café-restaurant inside the mansion
- Wharf-side seafood restaurants at Fisherman’s Wharf
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Yes — vegetarian options are fairly common in cafés and restaurants. Halal-specific options might be rarer but are present in some eateries—ask locally.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
There are guesthouses, boutique hotels, and B&Bs around Tamsui and near the MRT station. Staying in Taipei and doing a day trip is also common.
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Bali across the river — reachable by ferry, with bike paths and Bali Old Street
- Yangmingshan National Park (accessible by bus from nearby areas)
- Beitou Hot Springs (via MRT / bus) for a complementary hot-spring visit
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
Yes — souvenirs include local snacks (iron eggs, dried seafood), small crafts, postcards, themed merchandise (Fort, ferry, river motifs), and tea.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Return via MRT Red Line to Taipei or connect to other parts of New Taipei City.
- Take a ferry across to Bali district and explore more coastal paths.
- Use buses or taxis to reach Yangmingshan or Beitou for further exploration.
