Hobe Fort is a Qing-era coastal defense site in Tamsui, New Taipei City, built in 1886 to guard the port. Thick earthen walls, large gates, steep steps and four artillery batteries show how the fort was designed for military use, though it never saw combat. You can walk through its passages and bunkers, see a cannon display and climb onto the fort roof. The uphill approach takes some effort, but the compact site makes a worthwhile stop for Taiwan’s military history.
Built to defend Tamsui port
Hobe Fort was built in 1886 under the leadership of Liu Mingchuan, Taiwan’s first governor, as part of efforts to strengthen the island’s coastal defenses after the Sino-French War. Its purpose was to protect Tamsui port from foreign attack. The fort was designed for military action but was never used in conflict.
The site is also known as Huwei Fort. Its scale and surviving structures make it one of Tamsui’s most complete historic forts. The walls, gates and batteries still convey the practical demands of a coastal defense position.
Walls, passages and batteries
The fort’s thick earthen walls enclose a layout built around four batteries. Large gates and steep steps connect the defensive spaces, while narrow passages lead into dim bunkers. These areas help explain how the fort was arranged for artillery and movement within its walls.
A cannon display stands on the grounds, including a replica cannon. Visitors can enter many of the quarters built into the wall and climb onto the roof. The site is compact enough to explore at a relaxed pace, with a rest area and water station available for a pause.
Getting there and combining sites
Hobe Fort sits in Tamsui District, about 1 kilometre beyond Fort San Domingo along Zhongzheng Road. The approach includes an uphill walk; a side road near Tulip Hotel leads up to the fort. The climb can feel demanding on a hot, sunny day, so allow time to make your way up.
A combined ticket can include entry to Hobe Fort and Fort San Domingo. Keep the ticket from Fort San Domingo if you plan to visit both, as it may cover access here. The fort is open on Mondays, when Taipei museums are closed.
Häufige Fragen
Where is Hobe Fort?
It is in Tamsui District, New Taipei City, about 1 kilometre beyond Fort San Domingo along Zhongzheng Road.
How do you get to Hobe Fort?
The approach is uphill. A side road near Tulip Hotel leads to the fort.
Can you use a Fort San Domingo ticket at Hobe Fort?
A combined ticket can include entry to both sites. Keep your Fort San Domingo ticket if you are visiting Hobe Fort.
What can you see inside Hobe Fort?
You can explore passages, bunkers and quarters built into the fort wall, see a cannon display and climb onto the roof.
