Tamsui
Most travelers come to Tamsui Old Street for its famous snacks a-gei and iron eggs, yet the most alluring features of Tamsui lie in the riverbank with a beautiful sunset backdrop and numerous historical stories. Fort San Domingo, built by the Dutch when they occupied Taipei in the 17th century, and Hobe Fort, built for defense after the Sino-French War, both speak of the colonial history in early Taiwan. Walk on the stone steps and pass through buildings on Chongjian St., you may wander to the red-brick restaurant Red Castle, a rich businessman's residence in the past. Order a cup of smoothie and enjoy the afternoon watching the river running to the sea. You may also take a ferry to the opposite Bali and climb on Guanyinshan to overlook the Taipei. There's no better night scene than this.