Rich and hearty brown sugar shaved ice for just NT$35 — Hidden in an alley, Tamsui’s Sea Water City

The small mobile shop often appears at the entrance of Yixin Cooperative in the alley. The owner and his wife bustle about, deftly scooping toppings and shaving ice for customers. Up close, the cart displays various beans, mini tangyuan, powder | kang rao ingredients, along with a section of chewy jelly. The two large bowls? They’re filled with soft and sweet red beans and tangyuan. It’s a nostalgic treat that combines modern tastes.

▲ A huge bowl of brown sugar shaved ice is only NT$35 — great value.

Sea Water City’s signature product is their freshly cooked red bean tangyuan. For NT$35, the bowl is generously portioned, featuring plump, tender red beans that are sweet and satisfying. The fresh two-tone tangyuan are slightly larger than regular ones, Q-textured yet chewy, perfectly paired with the smooth red bean soup. It's a popular choice for those seeking a healthy or warming treat.

▲ All handmade tangyuan are made in-house, with large, full red beans.

In addition, the shaved ice sold in summer allows for customizable toppings. You can also go for the highly popular brown sugar roasted tangyuan shaved ice. The owner assembles crispy rice balls, red beans, powder | kang rao, jelly, and shaved ice in layers. The brown sugar syrup is poured over the ice, creating a dish that’s simply irresistible on a hot day.

The shaved ice, turned into fine icy crystals and topped with brown sugar syrup and condiments, is visually satisfying. The portions are extremely generous — every scoop is packed with toppings. Whether it’s traditional mee tai mak or powder | kang rao, they all have a uniquely delightful texture that’s chewy, soft, and flavorful. Combined with the sweet ice and syrup, it’s a perfect summer refreshment.

▲ Sea Water City serves up very generous portions — you’ll always find a pleasant surprise in every scoop.

Although Sea Water City is just a mobile vendor, the husband-and-wife team keeps things clean and tidy. Unfortunately, there’s no seating available, so everything is for takeout. It’s best to plan where you’ll enjoy your treat beforehand or take it home quickly, otherwise it might all melt away.

Sea Water City Handmade Tangyuan
Location: In front of Yixin Cooperative, Bo’ai Street, Tamsui
Business Hours: After 15:00
Prices: Red bean tangyuan NT$35, brown sugar roasted tangyuan shaved ice NT$35