Keelung

Keelung City is a major port city situated in the north-eastern part of Taiwan, East Asia.

Ershawan Fort (aka Haimen Tiansian) was built in 1840 and visitors can view Keelung Harbour from the gun emplacement. Other forts in the area include Gongzih Liao Fort in the northeast of Keelung City, Dawulun Fort and Baimiwong Fort, located in the north-west of Keelung harbour.

Shihciouling Fort is the highest fort in Keelung and offers a great view over the entire harbour.

Waimu Shan seashore is the longest natural seashore in Keelung City. Experienced swimmers and scuba divers can use facilities available near Waimu Shan Fishery Harbour. The beach near Aoditong Village is the only remaining sandy seashore in Keelung.

Lovers Lake is located at the mountainside of Mount Dawulun in the western part of Keelung. It features dense woods, a lake and beautiful scenery. It is a good place for hiking and exploring, with an observation deck overlooking the seashore.

Other places of interest include Gold Falls, Keelung Maritime Plaza, Keelung Peace Island and Zhongzheng Park.

Keelung Miaokou Night Market is the place to head for souvenirs, gifts and lots of food stalls.

Try some fresh seafood or taste local snacks available in the night market such as stinky tofu, oyster omelette, pot-edged pancake soup, fried sandwiches, bean noodle soup and shrimp Taiwanese balls.

Cruise ships dock in central Keelung, it takes around 10 minutes to reach the centre of town.

The main train and bus stations are a short distance away. Taipei is approximately 16 miles southwest of the port and reachable by public transport.

Taxis may also be available but ensure they use their meters and the drivers know exactly where you want to go as they only speak Chinese (a guidebook with English and Chinese may be helpful).