Is a Visit to Keelung Worth Your While?

Keelung may be a small port city that is often overlooked by travelers to Taiwan, but there are plenty of reasons why you should consider adding it to your itinerary. The city boasts a rich history, a lively night market scene, and plenty of outdoor activities that will keep you entertained for days on end.

The History of Keelung

Keelung has a long and fascinating history that is worth exploring. The city was first established in the 17th century as a base for Dutch traders, who built Fort Zeelandia on a hill overlooking the harbor. Later, the city was occupied by the Spanish and then the Chinese, who built the Miaokou Night Market that still stands today.

The city also played an important role in Taiwan’s industrialization in the 20th century, becoming a major center for shipping and manufacturing. Today, the city is home to several interesting museums, including the National Museum of Marine Science and Technology and the Heping Island Park Museum.

Exploring Keelung’s Night Markets

One of the highlights of any visit to Keelung is exploring the city’s many night markets. The Miaokou Night Market is the most famous, offering a wide variety of local delicacies such as stinky tofu, oyster omelettes, and oyster vermicelli. But there are several other night markets in the city that are worth checking out as well, including the Temple Night Market and the Zhengbin Night Market.

What makes Keelung’s night markets unique is the way they blend traditional Taiwanese street food with the city’s maritime history. Many of the dishes on offer have a seafood flavor, such as seafood porridge, fried squid, and grilled scallops. And of course, there are plenty of bubble tea stands to keep you refreshed as you explore.

Taking in the Outdoors in Keelung

Keelung is also a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The city is surrounded by mountains and the sea, offering plenty of opportunities for hiking, fishing, and surfing. One popular destination is Badouzi, a scenic peninsula that offers breathtaking views of the ocean and the surrounding coastline.

Another great spot for outdoor activities is Heping Island, a small island off the coast of Keelung that is home to several beautiful beaches and a lighthouse. You can also explore the island’s caves and rock formations, which have been carved over thousands of years by the ocean waves.

The Verdict: Should You Visit Keelung?

In short, the answer is yes. Keelung may not be as well-known as some of Taiwan’s other tourist destinations, but it offers a unique and authentic experience that is sure to leave an impression. Whether you’re interested in history, food, or nature, Keelung has something to offer.

So why not add Keelung to your next Taiwan itinerary and see what this charming city has to offer?

Insider’s Guide to Keelung: What You Need to Know

Keelung City is a port town situated in the northernmost part of Taiwan. Known historically as one of the island’s most important marketplaces for fish and other seafood, Keelung has developed into a bustling urban hub of cultural experiences, breathtaking natural scenes, and delicious traditional cuisine. This insider’s guide aims to give you a glimpse of what the city has to offer, including local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Attractions

Keelung offers a number of must-visit attractions that cater to different kinds of tourists. One of the most popular is the Miaokou Night Market that becomes a beacon of street food, souvenirs, trinkets, and knick-knacks come dusk. Be sure to try Keelung’s famous Xie Ke Huang, a fresh crab and rice soup that has become one of the market’s iconic dishes.

Another attraction is the statue of Guanyin, a Chinese goddess of mercy, which is stationed on top of Waimushan hill. This 25-meter high statue is a popular tourist spot, and the view of the city from the site is absolutely breathtaking.

Foodies will not be disappointed with Keelung’s fresh seafood offerings. Head to Nuannuan Fish Market where the catch is brought daily and sold in bucketloads. You can pick your own seafood and have it cooked on the spot. Keelung’s hundred-year-old Di-Hua Street is also worth a visit to snack on traditional Taiwanese foods such as oyster vermicelli and taro cakes.

Dining Spots

There are a lot of great dining spots in Keelung. For seafood, fill up on huge servings of ocean-fresh seafood at A-Ho Fish Ball and at Roasted Pigeon upon the hillside village of Jiufen. Other options around Keelung offer vegetarian dishes and popular Taiwanese cuisine. Two highlights are Café Bene or Sunset Café. The former has fantastic outdoor seating and a beautiful setting, while the latter has an elevated yet casual vibe with a view of the sprawling hills.

Cultural Experiences

Keelung is full of cultural experiences, and one of the most popular is the Ghost Festival that takes place each August. During this annual event, locals perform rituals to appease spirits and ensure their good fortune. The festival has been named by the Discovery Channel as one of the world’s top ten most bizarre festivals, and is definitely worth experiencing.

Visitors should also check out Keelung’s National Museum of Marine Science and Technology, which showcases the city’s rich maritime history and offers marine-focused educational experiences. The harbor is another great spot, especially through the night where the illumination in the waters provides a pleasant sight and people can enjoy drinks and a good stroll along the boardwalk.

Local History

Keelung’s history is rich and eventful, mainly influenced by the city’s role as an important commercial center for centuries. It was once occupied by the Spanish, Dutch, and Japanese, and also became a key port for the Chinese primarily owing to its favourable location. Visitors can learn about Keelung’s tumultuous history at the city’s renowned forts, both of which were built to protect against foreign invasion: Ershawan and Dawulun. Through the old walls of these forts, the existence of Keelung’s historical past remains as prominent reminders.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re interested in getting off the beaten path, consider visiting the Zhongzheng Park, which boasts a lush and expansive collection of plants and trees. Another option is the Buddhist Statues Garden, a serene spot featuring hundreds of Buddhist statues of various sizes. Additionally, if you’re looking for a place to relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Keelung’s beaches and hot springs, such as Badouzi and Baishawan, also provides an escape from the ordinary.

Conclusion

Whether you are a history buff, a seafood lover, or looking for a relaxing break, Keelung has something for everyone. From its famous night market, iconic statue of the goddess Guanyin, and rich cultural experiences, to its interesting history, delicious dining spots, and hidden gems, Keelung is a port city that is definitely worth your while.