Keelung, a vibrant port city nestled on the northeastern coast of Taiwan, often gets overlooked by international tourists. But let me tell you, this city is a treasure trove of authentic Taiwanese experiences, stunning coastal scenery, and delicious seafood. As an avid backpacker who's explored Asia extensively, I recently spent a weekend in Keelung, and I'm here to share why you should add it to your Asian adventure itinerary.
From Historic Streets to Modern Marvels: Exploring Keelung's Diverse Charms
After a day of exploring the city and indulging in its culinary delights, I checked into a charming guesthouse near the bustling Miaokou Night Market. This renovated heritage building, just across from a quaint tiled cafe, perfectly embodies Keelung's blend of old and new. The guesthouse's pseudo-concrete finish, accented with industrial-style iron fixtures, exuded a chic, almost luxurious vibe. The first floor, filled with artifacts and a cozy reading area, added to its artsy appeal. I browsed through the selection of unique souvenirs before heading to my room.
The guesthouse offers a variety of accommodations, from backpacker-friendly bunk beds to larger rooms with balconies. There's even a four-person room ideal for families or groups. The limited number of rooms means booking in advance is essential, especially during peak season. Beyond the rooms, the guesthouse features shared spaces like a lively outdoor patio and a well-equipped communal kitchen. Staying in this renovated heritage building felt surprisingly modern and stylish, a perfect blend of comfort and character.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Near Miaokou Night Market |
| Style | Renovated heritage building, pseudo-concrete finish, industrial-style accents |
| Amenities | Communal kitchen, outdoor patio, reading area, selection of souvenirs for purchase |
| Room Types | Bunk beds, double rooms, quadruple room |
| Booking Tip | Book in advance due to limited room availability |
Coastal Wonders and Culinary Delights: A Day Trip to Peace Island and Beyond
My second day in Keelung was all about exploring the city's stunning coastline. From the historic Ershawan Fort, perched high on a hill overlooking Keelung Harbor and Peace Island, to the geological wonders of Peace Island Park itself, the views were simply breathtaking.
Peace Island, connected to the mainland by two bridges, boasts a rich history. The older of the two, Peace Bridge, built in 1935 during the Japanese era, holds the distinction of being Taiwan's first cross-sea bridge. The narrow waterway it spans, known as Bachimen (Eight Feet Gate), is a testament to the island's unique geography.
From Peace Island, I ventured to Zhengbin Fishing Port, famous for its colorful houses reminiscent of Italy's Cinque Terre. The area is a seafood lover's paradise, with numerous restaurants offering fresh catches.
After a day of sightseeing, I craved a satisfying meal. Remembering my previous visit to Keelung during my walking tour of Taiwan, I headed to Xiangfeng Market. Inside, I found a 30-year-old Japanese restaurant, a hidden gem that also served as a filming location for a popular Taiwanese drama. The restaurant retains its vintage charm while offering incredibly affordable dishes. The miso soup, brimming with tofu and fish, was a steal at just NT$10. My friend ordered a massive pot of fresh fish soup for only NT$50, and the generous owner even offered free refills!
The star of the show was the "shengyu fan" (raw fish rice). Instead of a typical donburi bowl, it was served as six pieces of nigiri sushi, each topped with thick slices of fresh fish and a unique sweet-soy glaze. For under NT$100, it was an absolute bargain. We also devoured overflowing hand rolls, barely contained by their seaweed wrappers. Our entire meal, enough to satisfy five hungry travelers, cost less than NT$1000.
Beyond the Food: Educational Adventures and Relaxing Escapes
Keelung isn't just about food and stunning scenery. The National Museum of Marine Science and Technology (NMMST) is a fantastic indoor attraction for all ages. Housed in a former power plant, the museum showcases the building's history alongside interactive exhibits about marine life and ocean science. Kids will love the five-story eel-shaped slide, while adults can explore the Smart 館 with its live underwater footage and interactive displays.
Right next to the NMMST is Chaojing Park, a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll with stunning ocean views. It's also home to a popular Harry Potter-themed broomstick installation, perfect for Instagram-worthy photos.
For a comfortable stay near these attractions, I highly recommend a nearby hotel. With only 39 rooms, it offers a peaceful and intimate atmosphere. The two-story lobby, filled with bookshelves, feels like a small library. Rooms range from 7 to over 10 square meters and feature unique touches like tatami-style lounging areas. The hotel provides a semi-buffet dinner with a main course and a selection of other dishes. Prices start at NT$4860 per night.
Getting Around Keelung with Ease
Navigating Keelung is easy thanks to its public transportation system. The city offers several travel passes that combine transportation with admission to key attractions. I particularly enjoyed using the "Taiwan Tourist Shuttle" pass, which includes a charming collectible card for use on buses and trains. This pass covers various routes connecting historical sites, coastal scenic spots, and geological formations. It's a convenient and eco-friendly way to explore the city without the hassle of parking.
Two-Day Keelung Itinerary
Day 1: Explore the caves (Buddha Hand Cave, Fairy Cave), visit the Keelung Harbor Plaza, enjoy a coffee at a trendy cafe, indulge in the Miaokou Night Market, experience the Kan Zai Ding Fish Market, and check into your guesthouse.
Day 2: Discover Peace Island Park, savor delicious Japanese cuisine at Xiangfeng Market, explore the NMMST, relax at Chaojing Park, and head home refreshed and rejuvenated.
From historical sites and coastal wonders to delicious food and family-friendly attractions, Keelung offers a unique and unforgettable Taiwanese experience. I highly recommend this hidden gem to anyone seeking an authentic adventure off the beaten path.
