Danshui
From World travel guide
Danshui (淡水, or Tamsui) is a smaller city to the north of Taipei that was the center of shipping and commerce in northern Taiwan in the 19th century. The city is still popular with visitors from Taipei and boasts many historical atttractions, and is a popular location for viewing the sunset.
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Understand
Danshui is located near the outlet of the Danshui River into the Taiwan Strait. The area was first settled by non-aboriginies by the Spanish in 1629 as the town and mission of Santo Domingo. The Spanish were expelled by the Dutch in 1641 who renamed it Fort Provintia, forming what is known today as Hongmao Castle. Following the departure of the Dutch in 1661, Danshui continued to grow, becoming the largest port in Taiwan by the 19th century. By the 20th century, accumulation of silt in the river forced most port operations to move further north to Keelung. The city has since become popular as a suburb of Taipei and as a favorite destination for Taipei city dwellers due to its close proximity.
Get in
By metro
Danshui is most easily acccessed from Taipei by taking the MRT Danshui (Red) Line to it's northern end at Danshui Station. The ride is roughly 40 minutes from Taipei Main Station
Get around
On foot
Most of the city Danshui is easily accessible on foot from the MRT station.
By boat
Ferries across the river to the town of Bali and the Fisherman's Wharf depart from the Danshui Ferry Docks, about 10 minutes north of the MRT station by foot. Sightseeing boats traversing Taiwan's northeast coast and the Danshui River depart from the Fisherman's Wharf.
See
- Hongmau Castle (紅毛城, lit: Red Hair Castle) was constructed by the Spanish in 1629, but gained its present name in reference to the Dutch who later took control of the castle. The compound also served as the British Consulate in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It enjoys commanding views over the mouth of the Damshui River. Address: 1, Lane 28 Zhongzheng Road, Danshui. MRT to Danshui Station (Danshui line), shuttle bus red 26 to castle. Tel:2623 1001.
- Danshui Old Street and waterfront: Located along the Danshui River, this pedestrian shopping area offers tourists a wide selection of restaurants, arcades, and stores specializing in traditional handicrafts. Visitors can sample Danshui's local specialties: Ah-ghey (crystal noodles wrapped in a bean curd skin, served with a mild hot sauce), fish ball soup, and "iron eggs" (eggs which have been stewed in a mix of herbs and spices until pickled). The area is located right outside the north side of the MRT Danshui Station and stretches north to the ferry docks.
- The Danshui Ferry Docks are located near the north end of the waterfront area and offer ferries across the river to Bali Township, as well as Danshui Fisherman's Wharf further north. Tickets run around NT$20 to Bali, and NT$50 to Fisherman's Wharf. When taking the ferry don't stand outside unless you enjoy getting wet! Closed in the event of bad weather.
- Danshui Fisherman's Wharf is located further downstream from the town itself and offers a boardwalk, chic coffee shops, a slightly pricey seafood restaurant, and is a departure point for tourist boats traveling along Taiwan's scenic northeast coast. The "Lover's Bridge", a small suspension bridge spanning the harbor, changes color at night and makes this area a favorite with local couples and romantics. Outdoor concerts are sometimes held in the amphitheater.
Do
- Ride the ferry.
- Visit historic attractions.
- Attend seasonal concerts or festivals at Fisherman's Wharf or the MRT Station Plaza.
- Walk along the waterfront.
- Watch the sunset.
Buy
Eat
Local specialties
- Iron eggs (鐵蛋) are eggs which have been repeatedly stewed in a mix of spices and air dried. The resulting eggs are dark brown, chewy and, about half its initial size.
- A-ghey (阿給) are deep fried tofu that have been stuff with flavoured crystal noodles and sealed with fish paste (surimi). It is often served with a spicy sauce.
- Danshuei fish balls (淡水魚丸) are balls of fish paste stuffed with meat and garlic served in a light broth.
- Fish crisps (魚蘇) are fish snacks that are light crispy with a texture comparible to shrimp crackers. Available in original and hot flavours.
Drink
- Sour plum drink (酸梅湯) is a sweet and sour drink made of salted pickled plums that have been cooked in syrup
