Can You Enjoy Life in Keelung?

Are you looking for a new place to live or thinking about traveling to Taiwan? If you’re considering exploring the northern coast of Taiwan, you might be wondering if Keelung is a good place to live or visit. Located about 15 miles northeast of Taipei, Keelung is a port city that serves as a gateway to tourist attractions such as Yehliu Geopark and Jiufen, as well as the rest of Taiwan’s scenic northern coast. In this blog post, we will explore what you can expect if you decide to enjoy life in Keelung.

Climate in Keelung

Like the rest of Taiwan, Keelung experiences warm and humid weather year-round. The winter months are cooler and drier while the summer months can be hot and sticky. It’s also known to rain a lot in Keelung, especially during the typhoon season between July and September. So if you enjoy a lot of sunshine, Keelung may not be the ideal place to live. But if you don’t mind the rain and prefer a milder climate, then Keelung may be just what you’re looking for.

Housing in Keelung

Keelung is home to both high-rise apartments and traditional houses. The cost of housing in Keelung is much lower than in Taipei, making it an affordable alternative for those who want to be close to the city without paying sky-high prices. For example, a one-bedroom apartment in Keelung can cost around 10,000-20,000 NTD ($350-700 USD) per month, while a similar apartment in Taipei can cost up to double that amount.

Food in Keelung

If you’re a food lover, Keelung is the place for you. The city is famous for its seafood and night markets. One of the most popular night markets in Keelung is the Miaokou Night Market, where you can find all kinds of local delicacies such as oyster omelets, braised pork rice, and stuffed crabs. In addition to local street food, there are also many restaurants that serve Taiwanese, Japanese, and Chinese cuisine. The cost of food in Keelung is also very affordable, with most street food dishes ranging from 30-100 NTD ($1-3 USD).

Transportation in Keelung

Keelung is well connected to other parts of Taiwan by bus and train. The Keelung Train Station is located in the center of the city and provides easy access to other major cities like Taipei, Taoyuan, and Hsinchu. Another popular transportation option is the Keelung Harbor Bus, which takes passengers from the city center to popular tourist destinations like Jiufen and Pingxi.

Entertainment in Keelung

Despite its small size, Keelung has plenty of entertainment options. There are several movie theaters, karaoke bars, and nightclubs in the downtown area. For art lovers, the Keelung Cultural Center hosts many art exhibitions and performances throughout the year. There are also several parks and hiking trails in and around Keelung, including the popular Zhongzheng Park and Badouzi Coastal Park.

Safety in Keelung

Like most cities in Taiwan, Keelung is a safe place to live and visit. Crime rates are low, and the police presence is strong. However, it is always advisable to take the necessary precautions, such as avoiding dark and empty streets at night.

Conclusion

So, can you enjoy life in Keelung? The answer is yes. Keelung offers a unique blend of affordability, culture, food, and entertainment. It’s also conveniently located near Taipei and the rest of the scenic northern coast of Taiwan. While it may not be the ideal place for those who prefer sunny weather or large urban areas, Keelung is a great choice for those who want a quieter lifestyle or a new place to explore.

Discovering Keelung, The Hidden Gem of Taiwan

Are you a curious traveler looking for offbeat destinations and undiscovered treasures? Keelung, a small port city in Taiwan, may surprise you with its unique blend of history, culture, and nature. While it is not yet mainstream, Keelung is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. As a local, I would love to share some of my favorite spots and insider tips to help you enjoy life in Keelung to the fullest.

Local Attractions: Beyond the Tourist Paths

Keelung is famous for its night market, but there’s more to the city than that. One of my favorite spots is the Jiufen Old Street, a charming hillside village with narrow alleys, tea houses, and shops selling local crafts. The Chunghua Night Market, lesser-known than the famous Keelung Miaokou Night Market, is a great place to try local street food like oyster omelets, stinky tofu, and beef noodle soup. Another must-visit spot is the Yehliu Geopark, a surreal landscape of rock formations carved by the sea, like the famous Queen’s Head rock.

Dining Spots: Savoring Keelung’s Unique Flavors

Keelung is a foodie’s heaven, with a diverse array of culinary options that reflect its history as a melting pot of cultures. Seafood is a specialty here, and you can sample some of the freshest and tastiest seafood at the Keelung Miaokou Night Market, a gastronomic paradise with dozens of food stalls serving everything from grilled squid to oyster vermicelli. If you’re interested in traditional Taiwanese food, you should try the street-side braised pork rice or the delicate glass noodles with dried shrimp. For a more upscale dining experience, you can check out some of the seafood restaurants near the harbor, like Hai Jie seafood or Fishmonger Cafe.

Cultural Experiences: Discovering Keelung’s Heritage

Keelung has a rich cultural heritage, shaped by the interactions of various ethnic groups like Fujianese, Hakka, and the indigenous Ketagalan people. One way to learn more about Keelung’s history and culture is to visit the Dabaoen Temple, a magnificent temple built in honor of the sea goddess Mazu. Another option is to attend the Mid-Summer Ghost Festival, a unique event where people light lanterns to guide the spirits of their ancestors back home. You can also stroll along the Lover’s Wharf and see the locals singing karaoke, fishing, and enjoying the sea breeze.

Local History: Uncovering Keelung’s Hidden Stories

Keelung played a crucial role in Taiwan’s history, serving as a gateway for foreign trade and a landing point for colonial powers such as the Dutch, Spanish, and Japanese. One fascinating chapter of Keelung’s history is the Mackay’s Clinic, a missionary hospital that treated thousands of patients during the late 19th century, including lepers and opium addicts. Another hidden gem is the Ershawan Fort, built in the 1800s to protect Keelung harbor from foreign invaders. You can explore the tunnels, bunkers, and cannons, and imagine the battles that took place there.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Making the Most of Your Stay

Are you looking for some unique and memorable experiences that most tourists miss? Here are some ideas:

– Take a boat tour around the Keelung Islet, a pristine natural reserve with stunning views of the coast and the sea.

– Visit the Baimiwong Fort, a military stronghold built during World War II, and marvel at the strategic location and the panoramic view.

– Learn how to make traditional Taiwanese handicrafts, such as woodcarvings, potteries, or lanterns, at one of the local workshops.

– Rent a bicycle and explore the Keelung River biking trail, a scenic route that leads you through lush forests and riverside parks.

– Try your luck at the Keelung Temple Fairs, a series of seasonal events where you can win prizes, buy souvenirs, and soak up the festive atmosphere.

Now that you have a taste of Keelung’s hidden gems, it’s time to pack your bags and explore this charming city. I hope this insider’s guide has inspired you and made you curious to discover more. Don’t forget to share your adventure with your friends, and spread the word about this hidden gem in Taiwan.