HazelDiary

Taipei is one of those cities that keeps drawing travellers back with its vibrant food scene, charming old streets and easy day trips to scenic towns just outside the city. From nostalgic tea houses in the mountains to hip café districts and traditional markets, Taipei offers a mix of culture, history and modern lifestyle.

If you are planning a 5D4N Taipei itinerary, here is a suggested route that combines neighbourhood exploration with day trips to Jiufen, Shifen, Keelung and Shenkeng.

Day 1: Arrival In Taipei & Explore Zhongshan District

Start your Taipei adventure in Zhongshan District, one of the city’s most stylish neighbourhoods filled with cafés, boutiques and creative spaces.

The highlight here is Chifeng Street, a charming alley that has transformed from an old mechanical workshop area into a trendy café district. Today, it is filled with minimalist coffee shops, dessert cafés and independent boutiques. It is a great place to ease into Taipei’s relaxed lifestyle while enjoying the local café culture.

Things to do

• Café hop along Chifeng Street
• Explore independent lifestyle shops
• Try Taiwanese desserts and specialty coffee

Food & café spots

• Fika Fika Café – award-winning Nordic-style coffee
• Hoto Café – Japanese-style dessert café
• Double V – famous for unique ice cream flavours

Transport tip

Take the MRT Red Line to Zhongshan Station.

In the evening, head to Ximending, Taipei’s most energetic shopping and entertainment district. Often compared to Tokyo’s Shibuya or Harajuku, this pedestrian-friendly area is packed with street food, shopping and nightlife.

As night falls, the district lights up with neon signs, street performers and food stalls.

Things to do

• Watch street performers
• Shop for fashion and souvenirs
• Visit the historic Red House Theatre

What to eat

• Tian Tian Li (天天利美食坊) – braised pork rice
• Ah Chung Mian Xian (阿宗麵線) – vermicelli soup
• Crispy Donut (脆皮甜甜圈) – addictive street snack
• Xin Fu Tang (幸福堂) – brown sugar bubble milk
• Ruyi Sunny Cake (如邑堂) – free pastry tasting

Day 2: Explore Dihua Street & Dadaocheng

Spend the second day exploring Dihua Street, one of Taipei’s oldest and most historic streets located in the Dadaocheng district. Once a major trading hub during the Qing Dynasty, this area is now known for its preserved heritage shophouses selling tea, dried goods, traditional snacks and Chinese medicine herbs. Many of the buildings have also been restored into beautiful tea houses and cultural stores.

After exploring Dihua Street, you can take a short walk to Dadaocheng Wharf for a relaxing evening by the riverside. Once an important trading port during Taipei’s early development, the area has transformed into a scenic waterfront spot where locals gather to unwind.

As the sun begins to set, the wharf offers a peaceful atmosphere with views of the Tamsui River, making it a lovely place to slow down after a day of exploring the historic streets of Dadaocheng. Visitors can stroll along the cycling paths, enjoy street snacks from nearby stalls or simply sit by the river and watch the sunset. With the city skyline gradually lighting up and the river breeze setting in, Dadaocheng Wharf is a great place to chill and relax before heading back for dinner or continuing your evening in Taipei.

Things to do

• Visit traditional Taiwanese tea houses
• Shop for souvenirs and Taiwanese snacks
• Explore historic shophouses

Food & café spots

• ASW Tea House – modern tea bar with Taiwanese teas
• Jia Jia Peanut Candy – traditional peanut candy shop
• Summer Tree Sweet – famous pineapple cakes

Transport tip

Take the MRT Green Line to Beimen Station, then walk about 10 minutes.

Day 3: Jiufen & Shifen Day Trip

Take a scenic day trip to Jiufen and Shifen, two of the most popular destinations outside Taipei.

Jiufen is a charming mountain village famous for its lantern-lined streets, nostalgic tea houses and panoramic views of the sea. Walking through the narrow alleys feels like stepping into a different era.

After Jiufen, head to Shifen, where visitors release sky lanterns along the railway tracks. A tradition believed to carry wishes into the sky.

Highlights

• Jiufen Old Street snacks
• Traditional tea houses with mountain views
• Shifen Sky Lantern experience
• Shifen Waterfall nearby

Transport tip: Take a train from Taipei Main Station to Ruifang Station, then bus or taxi to Jiufen.

Alternatively, you can book a tour to explore the place with transportation included.

Day 4: Shenkeng Old Street & Keelung Night Market

Head to Shenkeng Old Street, often called Taiwan’s “Tofu Street.” The area is famous for its tofu-based dishes such as braised tofu, grilled tofu and the iconic stinky tofu. The street is lively and filled with traditional snack stalls.

The area is famous for its tofu-based dishes such as braised tofu, grilled tofu and the iconic stinky tofu. The street is lively and filled with traditional snack stalls.

Spend the day exploring Keelung, a charming harbour city about 40 minutes from Taipei. Start at Zhengbin Fishing Harbor, a colourful fisherman village often compared to a mini Santorini, where waterfront cafés and vibrant houses create a picturesque setting for photos and a relaxing coffee break.

Next, head to Heping Island Park, known for its dramatic coastal rock formations and scenic ocean views. Visitors can stroll along the seaside trails, admire the unique geological landscape and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze. You can pre-purchase the Heping Island Park e-ticket to explore the park.

End the day at Keelung Miaokou Night Market, one of Taiwan’s most famous night markets located near the harbour. The market is especially popular for its seafood dishes, with stalls serving local favourites such as crab soup, oyster omelette and Taiwanese tempura. It’s the perfect place to experience Keelung’s lively street food culture before returning to Taipei.

Must-try food

• Braised tofu in Shenkeng
• Stinky tofu
• Crab soup at Keelung Night Market
• Oyster omelette
• Fried tempura

Transport tip: Take the MRT Brown Line to Taipei Zoo Station, then bus to Shenkeng.

For Keelung, take a train from Taipei Main Station (40 minutes).

Day 5: Brunch & Café Hopping In Da’an

Spend your final morning exploring Da’an District, one of Taipei’s most pleasant neighbourhoods. Known for its tree-lined streets and relaxed vibe, the district is filled with stylish cafés and brunch spots. You can also visit Da’an Forest Park, often called the “Central Park of Taipei,” which offers a peaceful escape from the city.

Café recommendations

• Simple Kaffa – world-famous Taiwanese coffee
• Coffee Sind – minimalist specialty café
• Moonshine Coffee Roasters – great brunch spot

Transport tip: Take the MRT Red Line to Da’an Station.

A 5D4N Taipei trip offers the perfect balance of city exploration and nearby adventures. From café hopping in Zhongshan and Da’an to exploring historic streets like Dihua and scenic towns like Jiufen, Taipei offers an incredibly diverse travel experience.

Whether you are a food lover, café enthusiast or culture explorer, Taipei is a city that always has something new to discover.

Read more about my Taiwan travel posts here.

Quote ” HAZELOFFKLOOK” to enjoy 5% off when you purchase any activities on KLOOK.

Follow me on Facebook | Instagram | Tiktok | Telegram for insta updates

Discovering the hidden gems of Keelung on a day trip from Taipei is recommended to any frequent travelers in Taiwan. Situated northeast of Taipei along the picturesque north coast, Keelung is referred to as the “Port of Taipei” offers a blend of cultural experiences, culinary delights, and scenic landscapes that are sure to captivate your interest.  

Here is my guide to making the most of your Taipei to Keelung day trip goes:

By Train: There are several ways to travel from Taipei to Keelung, catering to different preferences and budgets. The most popular option is by train, with frequent services departing from Taipei Main Station, Songshan Station, or Nangang Station. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes to one hour, offering scenic views along the way.

By Bus: Alternatively, you can opt for a bus ride, with routes departing from various stations in Taipei City. We opt for the 30 minutes bus ride (Bus 1800) from Taipei City Hall Bus Staton to Keelung City. We went on a weekday, so the road traffic was smooth. It is not recommended to take the bus on weekends or public holidays as the road traffic can be congested.

TIPS: Since the bus will go through the highway route, there will be a seat for every passenger. So, no need to worry about standing on the bus throughout the journey. The bus driver will not accept standing passengers. 
Your Easycard can be used for bus ride too. You can pre-purchase it here.
Quote "HAZELOFFKLOOK" to enjoy S$5 off when you book with KLOOK.

By Car:If you prefer the flexibility of driving, you can pre-book your private car here or check with hotel to assist you on getting a taxi/cab allowing you to explore Keelung at your own pace.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture at Ren’ai Market, a bustling marketplace teeming with activity. Here, you’ll discover an array of fresh produce, local delicacies, and unique souvenirs waiting to be explored. Take your time navigating the market, indulging in authentic Taiwanese snacks, and engaging with the welcoming vendors.

Venture to the second level of the market, where a plethora of stalls beckon with fresh sashimi and seafood delights. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample fresh oysters and prawns at affordable prices from one of the stalls. For those craving sashimi treats, there are plenty of options to satisfy your palate.

Additionally, explore the classic and modern coffee shops located on the same level. Treat yourself to a satisfying lunch before the next stop.

Opening Hours: Daily 8:00AM-5:00PM

Address: No. 21號, Aisan Rd, Ren’ai District, Keelung City, Taiwan 200

Begin your exploration at the vibrant Keelung Harbour, where you can stroll along the Maritime Plaza and admire the breathtaking views of the coastline. Take a moment to relax by the water, soaking in the bustling atmosphere of this historic port city.

Originally named Takasago, Zhongshan Bridge stands as Taiwan’s oldest railway bridge, connecting the immigrant settlement of Seine-Tsai-Liu to Keelung Train Station. Its distinctive blue structure, reminiscent of the historical passage in Takasagomachi during Japanese occupation, has been a witness to over 40 years of Keelung’s history. For locals, it holds cherished childhood memories of trains arriving and departing, though now its role has shifted with the construction of a semi-underground railway.

Today, Zhongshan Bridge serves as a nostalgic shortcut from Keelung Train Station to An 1st Road, inviting visitors to explore the area’s local cuisine. In the cinematic masterpiece “Millennium Mambo,” directed by Hou Hsiao-hsien, the bridge takes on a mesmerizing allure, especially in the iconic opening scene featuring actress Shu Qi dancing in the midnight air, embodying a sense of freedom against the dreamy backdrop of Zhongshan Bridge.

To reach Zhengbin Fishing Harbor, a scenic waterfront area renowned for its vibrant buildings and breathtaking vistas, you have the option to either catch a bus from the main station or hail a cab. Once there, take your time exploring the harbor’s picturesque surroundings and capturing memorable photos against the beautiful backdrop.

After capturing your desired shots, consider taking a stroll around and visiting one of the cozy cafes nestled nearby for a cup of tea or coffee. The cafes here are nice to chill and savor the tranquil ambiance before the next stop.

Conclude your day with a visit to Zhongzheng Park, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Keelung and beyond. Marvel at the towering Guan Yin statue and soak in the tranquil ambiance of this scenic park before heading back to Taipei. We decided not to visit the park and went back to the station and took a bus back to Taipei city.

No trip to Keelung is truly complete without immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Miaokou Night Market. With some stalls opening as early as 4pm, embark on a culinary journey through a plethora of street food delights. From delectable oyster omelets to refreshing peanut ice, there’s something to tantalize every palate.

For an unforgettable experience, plan your visit on a Saturday or Sunday night to witness the mesmerizing glow of the iconic yellow lanterns illuminating the lively streets.

In summary, embarking on a day trip to Keelung from Taipei offers an enriching opportunity to immerse yourself in the allure and heritage of this historic port city. Diverging from the typical tourist attractions of Taipei, Keelung provides a tranquil escape where you can savor moments of serenity and embrace the local culture.

Moreover, Keelung’s proximity to Jiufen Old Street and the hiking trails of Yangmingshan Mountain presents the perfect opportunity for a comprehensive exploration of the region. If you’re traveling by private car, you can easily incorporate these destinations into your Taiwan itinerary for a day of discovery.