Located on Taiwan's northern coast, Keelung City is a vibrant port town where the mountain meets the sea, resulting in a distinctive landscape filled with historic fortresses and bustling harbour scenes. This city experiences a subtropical climate with frequent rainfall, leading to its nickname "Rain Port". However, the frequent rain enhances its enchanting allure, especially when fog immerses the surrounding hills.
The essence of Keelung resides in its captivating blend of maritime culture and traditional Taiwanese lifestyle. The amiable locals, recognized for their warm-heartedness and resilience, have established a society where ancient shrines stand next to modern shipping terminals. Though Keelung is a short 30-minute train ride from Taipei, it has managed to retain its unique character.
Keelung's must-visit attraction is its Night Market, hailed as one of the largest and most authentic in Taiwan. It boasts exceptionally fresh seafood, from grilled squid to pepper buns (hujiao bing), and delectable tempura. The Miaokou (Temple Entrance) vicinity is a haven for food lovers, with over 200 food stalls igniting a gastronomical delight every evening.
For those interested in culture, Zhongzheng Park offers sprawling city views and hosts the striking Zhuputan Temple. Concurrently, the Ershawan Fort (Peace Island) conveys a fascinating perspective into Taiwan's maritime defense history. The Keelung Harbor, particularly at sunset, affords stunning photography opportunities as colossal ships pass by fishing vessels.
The Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) offers services, connecting Keelung to Taipei and other major cities. Trains operate frequently from early morning until midnight. For a convenient travel experience, consider purchasing an EasyCard that allows for tap-and-go service.
The train journey from Taipei to Keelung takes approximately 40 minutes. The express trains can cover this distance in as less as 30 minutes. Conversely, local trains take around 45 minutes for the same trip.
Compared to Taipei, English is less commonly spoken in Keelung. However, travelers may find that rudimentary English is understood in major tourist areas and conveyance hubs. Keeping key phrases written in Chinese can prove to be very useful.
The Night Market is busiest between 6 PM and 10 PM, with the crowd peaking during the weekends. Visiting around 5 PM can help avoid large crowds while making sure all stalls are open.
While many large establishments accept cards, cash is the only form of payment at traditional markets and street food vendors. Having about NT$1000-2000 per day for local shopping and food should suffice.
Yes, Keelung is generally extremely safe even at night. It's advisable to take the usual precautions one would in any city.
Travel Tips for Keelung City
Explore Keelung City