Explore two historic cities in one trip: The Tamsui and Luzhou Mini Tour

By MOOK Travel Chen Wenlin, compiled and reported
 
As the weather warms up, it’s the perfect time to go out and enjoy nature. The Tamsui and Luzhou areas along the Tamsui River are ancient cities rich in historical landmarks. Whether it’s the famous Fort San Domingo or the widely known Luzhou Li Family Residence, these are popular historic sites that can be revisited and appreciated time and again. Now, the Tamsui Historic Sites Museum has launched a new one-day “Tamsui and Luzhou Mini Tour” in tune with the spring season, taking visitors on a journey through history.

Once known as “Hobe,” Tamsui boasts the highest density of well-preserved historic buildings in northern Taiwan and a rich variety of cultural vibes. Among them, the most widely recognized Fort San Domingo has witnessed over 300 years of Taiwanese history. The Historic Customs Wharf offers views of Guanyin Mountain and reflects the shimmering waters of the Tamsui River, with small boats dotting the surface—creating a picturesque scene that keeps visitors snapping photos.

Luzhou was originally a sandbank along the Tamsui River. When the reeds by the river bloomed, their fluffy white seeds would float in the air, covering the area in a white haze, complemented by the pale yellow moonlight at night—earning it the poetic name “Reed Moon Reflection.” This one-day “Tamsui and Luzhou Mini Tour” includes an afternoon visit to Yonglian Temple, the spiritual center of Luzhou, where you can learn about the history of the local community and the development of faith. You’ll also get to taste the “Little Deng Cake,” created by a 60-year-old local bakery in honor of Teresa Teng, and visit the Luzhou Li Family Residence to explore the traditional dwelling and the story of General Li Youbang.