Plan a CruiseKeelung, often called the "Rainy Port" for its frequent rain and maritime role, is Taiwan's second-largest seaport. Cruise ships dock directly at the pier, placing you conveniently within a 10-minute walk of the city center and Keelung Train Station. The immediate port area offers several attractions easily accessible on foot, with a board displaying main sights as you exit the port parking lot. Keelung also serves as a primary gateway for independent exploration of Taipei, Taiwan's vibrant capital, located approximately 24 km away.
Getting Around from the Port
Walking: Keelung's downtown area is compact and easily explored on foot. The city center and Keelung Train Station are just a 10-minute walk from the cruise pier. Train to Taipei: For independent travel to Taipei, the train is an efficient and affordable option. An information desk will be available in a tent as you disembark, offering maps and schedules. At the Keelung Train Station (a 10-minute walk), look for the English-speaking booth at the ticket counter. Trains depart approximately every 20 minutes, take about 50 minutes to reach Taipei Main Station, and tickets are very cheap. Taipei MRT: Once at Taipei Main Station, you can easily use the Taipei Metro (MRT) to navigate the city. A one-day MRT pass costs NT$150. Taxis: Taxi drivers in Keelung and Taipei primarily speak Chinese. If using a taxi, it is highly recommended to have maps or addresses with both English and Chinese characters to aid communication. Free Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available at the Keelung Cruise Terminal on the East and West wharf areas, sometimes extending to your ship. In Taipei, "Taipei Free Wi-Fi" is available in many public spaces; registration requires a valid passport or Mainland Residents Taiwan Pass and an email address at designated service centers.
Attractions and Activities
1. Explore Keelung on Foot (Walkable from Port):
- Miaokou Night Market: Keelung's most famous attraction, renowned throughout Taiwan for its wide variety of tasty snacks. While called a night market, many food stalls are also open during the day. It meanders through downtown lanes surrounding the Dianji Temple and is easily accessible on foot from the cruise port. Bargaining is generally not customary here.
- Ershawan Fort: Visit this historic fort, known for its five cannons, offering insights into Keelung's maritime defense history.
- Jungjeng Park: Overlooking the city and harbor, this park provides panoramic views. You can reach it from the Keelung Train Station by taking bus routes 101, 103, or 105.
2. Day Trip to Taipei (50-minute train from Keelung): Take a 50-minute train ride from Keelung Train Station to Taipei Main Station (trains every 20 minutes, cheap tickets). From there, use the Taipei MRT (NT$150 for a one-day pass) to explore the capital's attractions:
- National Palace Museum: Home to one of the world's largest collections of Chinese imperial art treasures.
- Lungshan Temple: Founded in 1738 and dedicated to the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy, this is a beautiful and highly favored temple located in Taipei's Manka district.
- Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall: Discover the history, artifacts, and exhibits featuring the life of this late president in a grand, meditative setting. Its big, ornate neighbor, Bao-an Temple, is also worth a visit.
Dining
Keelung's culinary highlight is the Miaokou Night Market, famous island-wide for its diverse and tasty snacks. Many of its food vendors are open during the day, making it a great stop for lunch or an early dinner. It's easily walkable from the cruise terminal.
Shopping
Beyond the food, night markets in Taiwan are a staple for entertainment, offering various wares from numerous vendors. Bargaining is generally not done at the Miaokou Night Market. While major hotels and department stores accept credit cards, most smaller local restaurants and shops do not, so carrying New Taiwan Dollars is advisable.
Safety
No specific safety concerns beyond general travel precautions are noted for Keelung or Taipei.
Currency and Language
Local Currency: The New Taiwan Dollar (NTD), also referred to as TWD. A simple conversion estimate is NT$100 roughly equals US$3. Exchange: An exchange tent is typically set up at the port, providing a convenient and free service to exchange money. You can also exchange any unused Taiwan dollars back upon your return to the ship, often at a good rate. ATMs: Plenty of ATMs are available throughout Keelung and Taipei. Credit Cards: Credit cards are widely accepted at major hotels and department stores. However, most small restaurants and local stores do not accept them, so it's essential to carry cash for smaller purchases and meals.