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Zhengbin Fishing Harbor

Visit The Colorful Zhengbin Fishing Harbor : Things to do in Keelung #3

When I think of iconic Keelung places, the one that immediately springs to mind is the Zhengbin Fishing Harbor. In fact, if you search “Keelung” in instagram, this is one of the spots you’ll see most of. Built during Japanese colonial rule in 1934, it was once Taiwan’s biggest fishing port. It has, since, become a much more sleepy part of town. *COVID-19* note: please be aware that during Taiwan’s Level 3 alert, business hours listed in this post may...

Things to do in Keelung 2021 Keelung Temples Keelung Fairy Cave

A Keelung Day Trip:The Secret Spot Itinerary

The most common Keelung day trip is likely, in my estimation, some combination of Zhongzheng Park, Miaokou Night Market and Maritime Plaza, adjacent to the cruise ship dock. Maritime Plaza is a great place to see the harbor, while Zhongzheng Park offers views from above along with some local culture, and Miaokou is a classic Keelung haunt, not to mention its island-wide fame. I love all three of these places, and this is a fine itinerary, but Keelung has so...

Dihua Street, Dadaocheng

Your Guide To The Historic Dadaocheng Neighborhood in Taipei

A Little Background Located alongside the Tamsui River in Taipei’s Datong District, Dadaocheng (大稻埕, also known by the Taiwanese “Twatutia”) has everything a traveller could possibly want, from history to local culture, delicious food, a wharf (love those), trendy pier and plenty of shopping. Dadaocheng’s commercial past has made it into the unique cultural enclave it is today – one in which we can catch a glimpse of old Taipei in its maritime glory. During the late 19th into the...

Tea Field at Kayu Campsite

My First Time Camping in Taiwan

I’ve been wanting to go camping in Taiwan since we arrived, alas camping is one of those things for which you need a lot of gear, and the gear is one of those things for which you need ample storage space (and a car!), which we lack. But the gods smiled upon me and I was invited by a friend, who was able to borrow all of the supplies we needed (thanks, Seiko & friends!). Our Camping Trip We took...

2021 Things to do in Taipei Treasure Hill Light Festival Treasure Hill Artist Village

Falling in Love with Taipei’s Treasure Hill Light Festival, 2021

If you’re looking for an immersive art experience in the Taipei area, look no further! In the Gongguan District, on a slope overlooking the Xindian River, an artist community glows. Treasure Hill Artist Village is the very embodiment of Taiwan’s wrestling contradictions. It carries the past into the future, consciously reflecting upon a rich history dating back to the early settlement of the Taipei Basin. Each year the village holds a Light Festival, this year running from March 27th –...

Cherry Blossom Season in Taipei

3 Amazing Spots for Cherry Blossom Viewing in Taipei

I’ve always had a thing for cherry blossoms. I don’t really know why or how or when it began. I just know that they stop me in my tracks every time, flooded with pure delight. To see a cherry blossom in full bloom is to step utterly into the present moment, savoring the simplicity of being in all its sensual wonder. Japan is most famous for its long-held Hanami (flower viewing) custom during sakura season, when friends and family gather...

Lovers Lake Park Keelung

Hike at Lovers Lake Park: Things to Do In Keelung #2

One of the best things about Keelung is its abundance of beautiful trails. If you’re in the mood for a walk or a hike, venture out to Lovers Lake Park (情人湖公園). It’s popularity as a wedding venue attests to its allure. At the park’s entrance stands the Ancient Engine, an old train, overlooking a view that is surprisingly gorgeous for only having reached the entryway. Between the entrance and the lake, walk through a beautiful park with ample outdoor shaded...