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So I took this photograph quite a few years ago in 2020 just as covid was beginning. We went there with family for an afternoon trip in early 2020. I think it was my wife who noticed the sunset cuz she has several pictures on her phone at the same time. I was taking shots of family when I turned around and saw this amazing sunset through the tree.

The view there overlooks the Tamsui River and what you’re seeing in the background is the port of Taipei with the large cranes for offloading cargo from ships.

At this point in time construction of the new bridge hadn’t even begun. So what you are seeing in the photograph is in fact the port. The actual bridge location is somewhat to the right of the photograph is so in fact you would not be able to see the bridge even today in that shot.

I hope you like the image, because I spent some time to work on the colors and the printing company offered jigsaw puzzle pattern which I didn’t understand at the time but I think is rather nice. Perhaps one day I’ll turn it into a jigsaw puzzle itself.

Here’s a polished short introduction to Tamsui that ties together its history, culture, and modern appeal. Inspired by my photography.

🌊 Introduction

Tamsui (淡水), at the mouth of the Tamsui River in northern Taiwan, is a beloved day-trip destination from Taipei. Known for its riverside promenade, historic port, and spectacular sunsets, it offers a blend of heritage and leisure.

⚓ Port & History

• Historic Port: During the Qing dynasty, Tamsui was one of Taiwan’s most important trading ports, hosting foreign consulates and bustling commerce. Its port silted up, but the services it provided shifted: fisheries to Fisher’s Wharf further along the coast, and Taipei Port (pictured in the distance).
  
• Sino-French War (1884): Tamsui gained fame when Qing forces repelled a French naval landing during the Keelung Campaign. The victory boosted local pride and underscored Taiwan’s strategic importance. The battle lasted only several hours, and casualties were high because the French hadn’t done good reconnaissance of the area. The Chinese soldiers adopted strong tactics taking advantage of the vegetation and forestry of the area, as well as their own local knowledge.

🌅 Modern Attractions

• Sunsets: The Riverside Park and Fisher’s Wharf are iconic spots to watch the sun sink into the Taiwan Strait, as you walk along you can take advantage of the summer treats for sale: cold beers, mango ice, and lots of other delicacies.
  
• Bridges:
  • Lover’s Bridge at Fisher’s Wharf, a sail-shaped pedestrian bridge glowing at night.
  • Danjiang Bridge, a striking new cable-stayed bridge designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, set to become a landmark.

🍧 Food & Drink

• Mango Ice (芒果冰): Shaved ice piled with fresh mango, a refreshing treat on hot afternoons.
• Beer: Riverside cafés and bars serve local craft brews and international favorites, perfect for unwinding after sightseeing.

🧭 Tourist Destination

• Day Trippers: Just 40 minutes by MRT from Taipei, Tamsui is ideal for a quick escape.
• Highlights:
  • Fort Santo Domingo (Spanish-built, later British consulate)
  • Tamsui Old Street (street food, souvenirs)
  • Riverside cycling paths and boat rides

✨ In short: Tamsui is where history meets leisure—battlefields and forts alongside mango ice and riverside sunsets. It’s a place to taste, stroll, and reflect, all within a single day’s journey.