Visit a century-old school | Tamsui's lesser-known historical attractions | Recommend "Oxford School" for history lovers

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Besides exploring the old streets and Fort San Domingo in Tamsui, the most impressive thing for me was Oxford College, nestled within the campus of Aletheia University. Also known as the "Li Xue Tang Da Shu Yuan," Oxford College was Taiwan's first Western-style educational institution, founded in 1882 by missionary Dr. Mackay. Finding it amidst the quiet campus felt like a treasure trove!

📝 My Recommendation and Impressions:
I particularly loved the college's tranquil, historical atmosphere. The building's red bricks and arches complement the surrounding greenery beautifully. At first glance, the college's design appears traditional Chinese, but a closer look reveals Western-style arches within the doors and windows. This unique blend of Eastern and Western styles is quite captivating!

If you have time, read the signage or visit the exhibition halls inside to learn more about Mackay's story—from his missionary work in Taiwan to his founding of schools and hospitals, and to appreciate his profound contributions to Taiwan. If you're interested in Taiwanese history or Mackay, make time to visit Oxford College and experience this unique and tranquil corner of history!

Useful Information:
📍 Location: No. 32, Zhenli Street, Tamsui District, New Taipei City (On the campus of Aletheia University, easy to find by following the campus signs).

🕰 Opening Hours:
- Exterior: Open at any time (during campus hours).
- Exhibition Halls: Typically open Mondays from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, Tuesdays to Sundays from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and closed from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM (please check for the latest information before your trip).

🚇 Getting There:
- Public Transportation: Take the Tamsui Xinyi Line to Tamsui Station. From there, transfer to bus No. 26 or No. 836 and get off at Fort San Domingo (Aletheia University) Station.
- Walking: From Tamsui MRT Station, walk along the old street along the Tamsui River and along Zhongzheng Road toward Aletheia University for about 15-20 minutes (passing Fort San Domingo and the Little White House).

⭐️ Recommended Side Trip:
▪︎ Walk a minute to the Great Chapel, diagonally across from Oxford Hall, for a photo op! This red-brick building is a landmark of Aletheia University. Its exterior blends Gothic arches with symmetrical spires, and its red brick facade complements the surrounding historic sites.

▪︎ You can also combine your visit with the nearby Fort San Domingo, Little White House (the former residence of the Commissioner of Customs of Tamsui Customs during the Qing Dynasty), Huwei Kai Medical Clinic (Taiwan's first Western medicine hospital), and Tamsui Chapel. This area is packed with attractions and rich in history and culture, making it easy to explore on foot!

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