The 50-year-old actress Ruby Lin recently shared memories from a trip to Tamsui, a district in New Taipei City, Taiwan, with her daughter, Amelia. Their stroll through the streets and visit to a historic restaurant brought back vivid recollections for Lin.

Ruby Lin's first time modeling. Photo: Weibo

It had been a long time since Lin visited Tamsui, a place where the river and streets hold significant personal history. During her 10th and 11th grade years, she had her first modeling photoshoot there. The entertainment company would buy meals from a well-known local restaurant for the entire crew during breaks. She posted several photos from that high school period in Tamsui, showing a young girl with charming dimples, wearing dark lipstick and trendy early 1990s outfits.

Ruby Lin in her youth. Photo: Weibo

Born into a well-off family in Taiwan, Lin developed an interest in beauty from a young age. Her parents initially opposed her modeling career. She and her manager once lied to skip school for photoshoots. Upon discovery, her parents punished her, but eventually relented due to her unwavering determination to pursue her passion.

Lin gained recognition in 1994 through a commercial alongside Aaron Kwok. A year later, she starred in a film with Jimmy Lin, a popular "dream prince" among teenage girls at the time. By 1998, she achieved pan-Asian fame with "My Fair Princess." Her extensive filmography also includes "Romance in the Rain," "Beauty's Rival in Palace," "The Glamorous Imperial Concubine," and "Light the Night." Beyond acting, Lin is currently a producer for films, television series, and reality shows, and remains a sought-after model for fashion and cosmetic brands.

Ruby Lin as Xia Ziwei in "My Fair Princess." Video: Bilibili

Married to actor Wallace Huo for nine years, Lin describes their marriage as grounded rather than an idol drama romance. While they have disagreements and arguments, they have learned to find common ground and accept each other's differences. Though they occasionally hold differing opinions, they present a united front in raising their daughter, ensuring Amelia never feels caught between conflicting parental advice.

Ruby Lin at 50. Photo: Sina

At an event in early May, Lin revealed recent lifestyle changes, including quitting her habit of drinking alcohol before bed and significantly increasing her physical training. Previously exercising two sessions a week, she now dedicates five sessions to pilates, gym workouts, running, and swimming. This consistent effort has improved her physique, making it firmer than after childbirth. She cherishes her morning routine, enjoying a cup of coffee to clear her mind. In the evenings, she turns off the lights at 9 p.m. to sleep with her nine-year-old daughter, using this time to discuss school and understand Amelia's developmental changes. These moments are among Lin's warmest and sweetest each day.

Nhu Anh (according to Sina)