About Keelung
Located just a short distance from the bustling capital of Taipei, Keelung is Taiwan’s primary port city, brimming with both historic charm and modern appeal. Known for its maritime heritage, lively night markets, and dramatic coastal landscapes, Keelung is the perfect destination for travelers seeking a mix of culture, food, and nature. While Keelung is often overlooked by those heading straight to Taipei, its refreshing blend of old and new makes it a stop to consider on your Taiwan itinerary.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Keelung—from its storied past to the best places to visit, and why it deserves a spot on your Taiwan adventure.
Keelung’s Maritime Legacy: The Gateway to Taiwan
Keelung’s history is intricately linked to the sea—its port has been a vital gateway to Taiwan for centuries. As one of the oldest harbors in the region, Keelung played a crucial role in Taiwan’s trade and commerce, as well as in its military history. The Keelung Fortress, perched on the hills above the harbor, is a striking reminder of this storied past. Over time, the city grew into a bustling maritime hub, with its harbor becoming one of the busiest in Taiwan.
Keelung’s coastal location means it is blessed with stunning natural scenery, from rugged cliffs and coves to lush hillsides. This maritime backdrop gives Keelung its distinctive character—an energetic port city fused with the calm and beauty of the sea.
🌟 Top Attractions in Keelung
Keelung may be a smaller city compared to Taipei, but it’s packed with unique experiences and must-see sights. Here are some highlights:
1. Keelung Night Market: A Feast for the Senses
If there’s one thing you can’t miss in Keelung, it’s the famous Keelung Night Market (基隆夜市), located right near the harbor. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and delectable street food, this bustling market offers a true taste of Taiwan’s food culture.
Signature dishes include fragrant oyster omelets, bubble tea, and stinky tofu—yes, it’s famous for its pungent aroma, but the flavor is definitely worth it!
Seafood lovers will find an abundance of fresh fish, squid, and shrimp, as well as mussels cooked in garlic butter and steamed crab.
Even if you’re not a foodie, the market is an experience in itself—lively crowds, colorful signs, and the hustle and bustle of vendors calling out their wares. It’s a must-visit for anyone wanting to feel the heartbeat of Keelung.
2. Keelung Fort & Peace Memorial Park: A Glimpse into Taiwan’s Military Past
Keelung’s military history is an integral part of the city’s identity, and the Keelung Fort offers a fascinating glimpse into that past.
Perched on the hill above the city, the Keelung Fort (基隆砲台) once served as a key strategic defense point. Now, it’s a peaceful park where visitors can explore old cannons, watchtower remnants, and enjoy panoramic views of the port and the city below.
Peace Memorial Park is another historic site, dedicated to Taiwan’s military history. It offers a more tranquil setting with memorials and green spaces where you can reflect on Keelung’s pivotal role during Taiwan’s modernization.
3. Chung Cheng Park: Nature & Views in the Heart of Keelung
For those seeking a bit of nature without leaving the city, Chung Cheng Park (中正公園) is a serene escape. Situated on a hilltop, this park is known for its green spaces, peaceful walking paths, and stunning views of Keelung Harbor.
Climb to the top of the hill for an elevated view of the harbor and coastline.
The park is home to hundreds of species of birds, making it a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and photographers.
4. Zuoying Lighthouse: The Icon of Keelung’s Coastal Beauty
For a picturesque escape from the city, visit the iconic Zuoying Lighthouse (左營燈塔), which stands on a cliff overlooking the ocean. This historical lighthouse not only offers breathtaking ocean views but is also an excellent spot for capturing photos of Keelung’s rugged coastline.
The lighthouse’s location is perfect for a sunset walk and provides a sense of tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle of Keelung’s port city life.
🛥️ Keelung’s Coastal Beauty: Hiking and Scenic Views
Beyond its urban attractions, Keelung is surrounded by some of the most beautiful coastal landscapes in Taiwan. The city itself is nestled along cliffs and beaches, making it an ideal starting point for nature lovers and hikers.
Bitan Scenic Area (碧潭): A quiet and beautiful coastal area perfect for a relaxed day trip. Here, you can walk along the shore or take a boat ride for a peaceful escape.
Heping Island (和平島): A must-visit for those wanting to see the beauty of Keelung’s rugged coastline. The island features dramatic rocky landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and the fascinating Heping Island Lighthouse.
For a more adventurous day, head out to the trails that wind through the hills around Keelung, offering fantastic panoramic views of the city, the port, and the Pacific Ocean.
🍜 A Taste of Keelung: Local Food Delights
Keelung’s proximity to the sea makes it an ideal destination for seafood lovers. Here are some must-try dishes:
Keelung’s Seafood: Fresh fish, crab, and squid served in myriad ways at the night market or seafood restaurants.
Oyster Omelet (蚵仔煎): A Taiwanese favorite that’s even more popular in Keelung, packed with fresh oysters, eggs, and a savory sauce.
Stinky Tofu (臭豆腐): Known for its pungent smell, this deep-fried snack is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It’s a must-try for anyone seeking authentic Taiwanese street food.
🏙️ Getting Around Keelung
Keelung is compact and easily navigable by public transport. Visitors can hop on buses or taxis to get around the main attractions. If you’re up for an adventure, rent a scooter for the day, which will allow you to explore the coastal roads and scenic areas more freely.
⏳ Best Time to Visit Keelung
Keelung is an excellent year-round destination, though the weather can be a little unpredictable. It tends to be cooler and foggy in the winter, which gives the city a mysterious charm, while the summer months are warmer and more humid.
The best time to visit would be during the spring or autumn months (March-May and September-November), when the weather is more temperate, and you can enjoy both the outdoor activities and vibrant night markets comfortably.
🌟 Final Thoughts: Why Keelung is Worth the Visit
Keelung might not be the first city that comes to mind when planning a trip to Taiwan, but it certainly deserves your attention. With its rich maritime history, breathtaking natural beauty, and delicious food culture, Keelung offers a unique and authentic experience that will captivate any traveler.
Whether you’re wandering through the crowded streets of the Keelung Night Market, exploring historic forts, or simply enjoying the scenic coastline, Keelung is a place that will leave you with memories of adventure, culture, and delicious food.
So next time you’re in Taiwan, take a short detour to Keelung—you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the charm and wonders it has to offer.
Top Tips for Visiting Keelung: Taiwan’s Harbor City
Situated just an hour from Taipei, Keelung is a hidden gem brimming with maritime history, lively markets, and breathtaking coastal views. While it may be known primarily as Taiwan’s main port, the city offers much more to explore for visitors seeking an authentic taste of local culture and coastal beauty. From bustling night markets to scenic temples and beaches, Keelung is a must-visit for travelers looking to explore Taiwan beyond the usual hotspots.
🚆 1. Getting There: Quick Access from Taipei
Keelung is just a 30- to 40-minute drive from Taipei, making it the perfect destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway. You can also take the TRA train or bus from Taipei Main Station, which is both convenient and inexpensive.
✅ Pro Tip: The train ride offers coastal views, so sit on the right side for the best sights during your journey.
🌟 2. Explore Keelung’s Maritime History
Keelung’s rich maritime heritage is part of what makes the city unique. Here are a few key historical sites to visit:
Keelung Maritime Plaza – a great spot to see the harbor and watch ships coming in and out.
The Keelung Harbor – take a walk along the waterfront to get a feel for the local shipping and fishing industry.
Zhengbin Fishing Port – a picturesque port area with old buildings that gives you a taste of Keelung’s industrial past.
✅ Tip: For a deeper dive, visit the National Museum of Marine Science and Technology for exhibits about Taiwan’s maritime history.
🏯 3. Visit Keelung’s Famous Temples
Keelung is home to several beautiful and culturally significant temples:
Dianji Temple (奠濟宮) – an ancient temple that dates back to 1787, dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu.
Chung Cheng Park – a lovely spot with scenic views, a statue of Kuan Yin, and an old temple.
Keelung Miaokou Temple – located near the night market, this temple is dedicated to Mazu and provides a fascinating look at local spiritual life.
✅ Pro Tip: Don’t miss the chance to light incense and offer prayers at these temples — a calming cultural experience.
🍣 4. Indulge in Keelung’s Seafood at Miaokou Night Market
One of the best reasons to visit Keelung is the Miaokou Night Market, which offers a massive variety of seafood and local street food. The market is a bustling hive of activity, with vendors selling everything from grilled squid to deep-fried shrimp balls. Make sure to try:
Oyster omelette – a local favorite made with oysters, eggs, and vegetables
Fried squid and seafood skewers – fresh and flavorful
Mochi and peanut brittle – delicious Taiwanese desserts
✅ Tip: Come hungry, and don’t forget to try the famous Keelung Beef Noodles at one of the market stalls.
🌊 5. Enjoy the Scenic Coastline
Keelung’s coastal area is filled with scenic spots, ideal for a relaxing afternoon or a photo op. These are some of the best places to visit:
Badouzi (八斗子) – a charming coastal town with beautiful cliffs, sandy beaches, and hiking trails.
Keelung Islet (基隆嶼) – a small island just off the coast, perfect for boat trips and wildlife watching.
Heping Island – with its rugged coastline, crystal-clear waters, and even a lighthouse, Heping Island is perfect for hiking and a peaceful escape.
✅ Tip: If you enjoy hiking, the Badouzi Trail offers stunning ocean views and takes you along some of Keelung’s most picturesque coastal cliffs.
🏙️ 6. Take in the Views from the Keelung Hill (基隆山)
Keelung Hill offers panoramic views of the city, harbor, and coastline. It’s an excellent spot for photos, especially during sunset. You can hike to the top or take the car up to the viewing area. It’s a serene escape from the bustling streets of Keelung.
✅ Tip: If you prefer to relax, bring a picnic and enjoy the breeze while taking in the scenery.
🌈 7. Visit the Colorful Keelung City Mall
Keelung may not have the giant shopping malls of Taipei, but Keelung City Mall is a colorful, fun space to explore. The mall has a unique, retro feel, with quirky decorations and local shops selling everything from clothing to electronics. It’s also a great place to find souvenirs to bring home.
✅ Pro Tip: Check out the basement food court for a wide selection of Taiwanese snacks and bubble tea.
🛶 8. Take a Boat Tour of Keelung Harbor
For a unique experience, hop on a boat tour of Keelung Harbor. These tours will take you around the busy port, offering a closer look at the ships and industries that make the harbor such an important hub in Taiwan. It’s a great way to see the city from a different perspective.
✅ Tip: Many of the boat tours include a guide who can tell you about the history and significance of the harbor.
☀️ 9. Best Time to Visit
Keelung is known for its rainy season — especially during the summer months — so the best time to visit is from October to March when the weather is cooler and drier. That said, if you’re planning to visit during the rainy season, just be sure to pack an umbrella!
🚶♂️ 10. Walk Around the Keelung Railway Station Area
Keelung’s railway station area is a vibrant part of the city. The streets surrounding the station are lined with shops, cafes, and food stalls. Take a stroll to soak in the local atmosphere, and stop by the Keelung Cultural Center if you’re interested in learning about the city’s history and art scene.
Final Thoughts
Keelung might be Taiwan’s port city, but it offers so much more than meets the eye. From scenic harbors and temples to bustling night markets and coastal beauty, it’s a place where history, culture, and nature come together in a unique way. Whether you’re a foodie, nature lover, or history buff, Keelung provides a refreshing alternative to the usual tourist destinations in Taiwan.
So, next time you’re in Taipei, don’t just pass through — spend a day or two in Keelung and discover Taiwan’s harbor city for yourself.