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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.

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Ximending is one of Taipei’s most vibrant districts, often compared to Tokyo’s Shibuya or Harajuku. First-time visitors usually flock to the night market snacks, shopping streets and famous landmarks. But if you have already visited Ximending before, the area still has plenty of hidden gems and nostalgic bites worth revisiting.

During my recent trip to Taipei, I revisited Ximending not as a first-timer, but as someone looking for familiar flavours and local favourites that never go out of style. From legendary braised pork rice to crispy street snacks and iconic Taiwanese drinks, here are a few things worth doing in Ximending if you have already checked the typical tourist list.

1. Tian Tian Li (天天利美食坊)

Located in the heart of Ximending, Tian Tian Li (天天利美食坊) has been serving comforting Taiwanese classics for decades and remains a favourite among locals and returning visitors.

The highlight here is their Braised Pork Rice topped with Fried Egg, where the rich, savoury pork sauce seeps into the fluffy rice while the silky egg adds an extra layer of indulgence. Simple, satisfying and full of Taiwanese soul.

Another popular dish is their Oyster Omelette, though I personally felt that versions from Ningxia Night Market still have the edge in terms of flavour and texture. Still, it’s worth trying if you are already here.

Expect queues even before opening hours, but service moves quickly. Orders are placed via a paper order sheet before entering the shop, making the process efficient despite the crowd.

2. Crispy Donut (脆皮甜甜圈)

One of the most addictive street snacks in Ximending is the Crispy Donut (脆皮甜甜圈). You will often notice a queue forming around this humble stall. It is a good sign that something delicious is being fried.

Freshly made on the spot, the donut is deep-fried until golden before being coated generously with sugar. The outside is crisp and slightly crunchy while the inside remains soft and fluffy.

Best enjoyed hot and fresh, this simple Taiwanese street snack proves that sometimes the most basic treats can be the most satisfying. Interestingly, the queue seems even longer than when I last visited two years ago.

3. Ah Chung Mian Xian (阿宗麵線)

A trip to Ximending almost always includes a stop at Ah Chung Mian Xian (阿宗麵線), one of Taipei’s most famous street food stalls.

The vermicelli soup here is rich, thick and comforting, topped with tender braised pork intestine. The best part is customising the flavours with garlic, vinegar and chilli sauce at the counter.

There are no seats here .Everyone simply stands around the stall enjoying their bowls of noodles. Somehow, this casual street-side dining experience is part of what makes it so iconic.

Even if you have tried it before, it’s one of those nostalgic bites many travellers return to whenever they are back in Ximending.

4. Buy Sunny Cake From Ruyi (如邑堂) — With Free Tasting

If you are looking for Taiwanese souvenirs, Ruyi Sunny Cake (如邑堂) in Ximending is a great stop.

What makes the shop special is that most of their pastries are available for tasting, allowing visitors to sample different flavours before deciding what to buy. Upon entering, staff often serve guests a cup of hot tea while offering samples of their signature items.

Besides the classic sun cakes, you can also try other pastries such as tieguanyin tea pastries, matcha treats, taro pastries and yolk pastries. For travellers buying gifts, the shop also offers tax refund services and careful packing, making it convenient to bring home Taiwanese treats for friends and family.

You can read full details on my previous post here.

5. Xin Fu Tang (幸福堂)

Bubble tea is practically synonymous with Taiwan, and Xin Fu Tang (幸福堂) is one of the well-known brands famous for its brown sugar bubble milk.

Their signature drink is prepared with freshly cooked brown sugar pearls that are caramelised in a hot wok before being mixed with fresh milk. The result is a creamy drink with warm, chewy pearls and fragrant caramel notes.

While bubble tea options are endless in Taipei, Xin Fu Tang remains a fun stop in Ximending for those craving a classic Taiwanese drink while exploring the district.

Ximending may be one of Taipei’s most visited districts, but it still offers plenty to explore beyond the typical tourist checklist. For returning visitors, revisiting familiar favourites like Tian Tian Li or Ah Chung Mian Xian can feel surprisingly nostalgic, while street snacks and souvenir shops add small discoveries along the way.

Sometimes the best way to enjoy Ximending is simply to slow down, revisit old favourites and snack your way through the neighbourhood again.

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If you are exploring Ximending in Taipei, one bakery that should be on your list is Ruyi Sunny Cake Taipei Kaifeng Store (如邑堂餅家). Known for its award-winning Taiwanese sun cakes (太陽餅) and generous tasting experience, this popular bakery attracts both locals and tourists looking for authentic Taiwanese pastries and souvenirs.

What makes this shop stand out is its “taste before you buy” concept. Visitors are welcomed with complimentary hot tea and free samples of many pastries, allowing you to try the different flavours comfortably before deciding what to purchase.

A Tourist-Friendly Bakery in Ximending

Located near Ximending, one of Taipei’s busiest shopping districts, Ruyi Sunny Cake Taipei Kaifeng Store has become a favourite stop for travellers looking to bring home Taiwanese baked goods as souvenirs.

Upon entering the shop, customers are greeted warmly by the staff and offered a cup of hot tea while being introduced to their signature pastries. Many of the products are available for tasting, creating a relaxed and welcoming environment where visitors can sit down and enjoy the treats without feeling pressured to buy.

The staff are also known for their excellent customer service, assisting tourists with:

• Explaining different pastry flavours
• Preparing items for travel-friendly packing
• Providing extra bags for omiyage (souvenirs)
• Helping with tax refund paperwork for purchases above TWD 2,000

English menus are available as well, making it convenient for international visitors.

Award-Winning Taiwanese Sun Cakes

Ruyi Sunny Cake is especially famous for its traditional Taiwanese sun cakes, a beloved pastry made with delicate flaky layers filled with sweet maltose filling.

The bakery has received multiple recognitions for its sun cakes, making them one of the most popular Taiwanese souvenirs to bring home from Taipei.

Some of the sun cake flavours available include the original, Tieguanyin, Matcha and also Truffle.Among these, the Original Sunny Cake remains the most recommended. The pastry is lightly flaky with a fragrant maltose filling that is not overly sweet, making it easy to enjoy with tea.

Other Taiwanese Pastries to Try

Besides sun cakes, the bakery also offers a variety of traditional and modern pastries worth sampling. Some highlights include:

• Matcha pastries
• Taro pastries
• Lemon tarts
• Salted egg yolk pastries

With most items available for tasting, visitors can easily explore the different flavours and pick their favourites before purchasing.

Thanks to its free sampling experience, award-winning sun cakes and warm hospitality, Ruyi Sunny Cake Taipei Kaifeng Store has become one of the best bakeries in Taipei to buy traditional Taiwanese pastries.

Whether you are looking for a quick snack while exploring Ximending or planning to bring home Taiwan food souvenirs, this bakery offers a delightful and memorable tasting experience.

Alternatively, you can also stack up your Shopee vouchers & coins and purchase here.

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Guohua Street (国华街) is a bustling food street in Tainan offering a taste of the city’s rich culinary heritage. Just a 30-minute walk from Silks Place Tainan, this historic street is lined with local eateries, food stalls, and traditional snacks, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

A mere 1.5-hour ride from Taipei via the High-Speed Rail makes Tainan an easy escape for travelers seeking to explore the past while enjoying the convenience of modern-day amenities.

TIPS: You can always pre-purchase your train ticket here.

Here are six must-try eats when exploring Guohua Street:

1. 阿松割包 (Ah Song Gua Bao)

This renowned stall is known for its Taiwanese-style “gua bao” (割包), often called the Taiwanese burger. The pillowy steamed bun is stuffed with braised pork belly or lean pork, then topped with pickled mustard greens, crushed peanuts, and cilantro for a well-balanced flavor profile. Ah Song Gua Bao is a great example of this, offering pork buns that are noticeably sweeter than the ones I tried in Taipei. They come with pickled mustard greens, pickled radishes, and a generous amount of sweet, peanutty sauce.

2. 石精臼蚵仔煎 (Shijingjiu Oyster Omelette)

A beloved Tainan street food, this oyster omelette features plump, fresh oysters combined with sweet potato starch and eggs. Followed by pan-fried until crispy and topped with a sweet-savoury sauce. Made to order, it’s a popular and essential dish for locals to enjoy.

3. 一味品碗粿 (Yi Wei Pin Wa Gui)

Wa Guei (also known as Wagui or Wha Guey) is a beloved Taiwanese snack, commonly referred to as bowl rice cake. This savoury dish is a staple in traditional eateries across Taiwan, with Tainan being especially renowned for its version. Yi Pin Wei, which earned a spot on the Michelin Bib Gourmand list in 2022, is a local favourite. The owner, who previously worked at Fu Sheng Hao—another famous bowl rice cake shop run by relatives—established Yi Pin Wei in 2013.

Wa Gui (碗粿), Tainan’s unique take on steamed rice pudding, is made from rice flour and topped with minced pork, dried shrimp, and soy sauce, creating a rich and flavourful dish. Known for its smooth texture and perfectly seasoned toppings, this shop has become a standout in the area.

4. 永乐虾仁肉圆 (Yongle Shrimp and Meat Rice Dumplings)

A unique take on the traditional “rou yuan” (肉圆), these translucent dumplings are stuffed with shrimp and minced pork, then steamed and served with a special sweet-savoury sauce. The combination of soft, chewy dumpling skin and juicy filling makes this a local favourite.

5. 春哥嗲 (Chun Ge Fritter Pancakes)

If you’re looking for a crispy snack, Chun Ge’s deep-fried pancakes (嗲) are a must-try. These savoury fritters come in various fillings, including seafood, vegetables, and cheese, making them a crispy, indulgent treat.

6. 修安扁擔豆花 (Xiu An Tofu Pudding)

End your food tour with a refreshing bowl of “dou hua” (豆花), a silky-smooth tofu pudding served with toppings like red beans, peanuts, or taro balls. This shop is known for its delicate texture and light sweetness, making it a perfect dessert after a savoury feast.

Guohua Street is a paradise for food lovers. You can find everything from traditional Tainan specialties to nostalgic street snacks. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned foodie, this lively street is a must-explore spot for an authentic taste of Tainan!

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During my recent 6D5N trip to Taiwan, I had the pleasure of staying at The Regent Taipei, a luxurious haven nestled in the heart of Taipei’s vibrant Zhongshan District. Renowned for its impeccable service and exquisite attention to detail, this five-star gem offers an unrivalled blend of elegance, comfort, and convenience.

Location

Situated in a prime location just a short walk from Zhongshan Station, Regent Taipei offers unmatched convenience for both business and leisure travellers. The hotel has the seamless access to Taipei’s MRT network.

The Stay
Regent Taipei impresses with its expansive rooms, some of the largest in the city, averaging 45 square meters. Upon entering, I was immediately enveloped in the room’s warm ambiance and luxurious amenities, setting the stage for a truly indulgent stay.

For those desiring an elevated experience, the Tai Pan Club Rooms offer a premium stay. Guests gain exclusive access to the Tai Pan Lounge on the 19th floor, complete with private check-ins, personal butler service, and a complimentary minibar. The lounge also features private meeting spaces, business facilities, and sweeping views of Taipei.

With offerings like a private breakfast, afternoon tea, and evening cocktails, the lounge provides an intimate, high-end experience. During my stay in a Tai Pan Room, these exclusive perks made for an unforgettable experience.

Hotel Facilities

Regent Taipei offers two distinct lounges. The Tai Pan Lounge is reserved for Tai Pan and suite guests, offering a refined space with premium services. Meanwhile, the Balcony Lounge on the 5th floor is available for IHG elite members, offering a cozy atmosphere with afternoon tea and evening cocktails. Families will also appreciate the nearby Kids Club, where dedicated staff ensure children are well cared for, allowing parents to relax.

For fitness enthusiasts, the fitness center on the basement level is open daily, featuring a sauna and personalized workout sessions. The hotel’s standout feature is its rooftop pool, open until 10:30 pm, offering poolside service and even evening outdoor cinema screenings—a unique and memorable experience in Taipei.

Dining Experience

During our stay, we had the pleasure of dining at Robin’s Grill, a Michelin Guide-recommended teppanyaki restaurant that offers an exceptional culinary experience. The menu, featuring seasonal ingredients, showcases the finest cuts of meat and fresh produce, prepared with precision and skill. We opted for the six-course dinner, perfectly complemented by a thoughtful tea pairing. Each dish was crafted with premium ingredients, delivering an upscale dining experience that combines exquisite flavors with impeccable service and ambiance.

Another standout dining option is the Brasserie, a popular buffet restaurant beloved by both locals and hotel guests. Known for its impressive variety, the Brasserie offers a wide selection of dishes that cater to diverse tastes. The hotel’s breakfast buffet is equally impressive, offering an international spread with something to satisfy every palate, from freshly prepared delicacies to hearty options for a fulfilling start to the day.

We also had the opportunity to dine at Silks Palace, which offers a unique selection of dishes inspired by the treasures of the National Palace Museum (NPM). The restaurant provides an immersive dining experience where the cuisine mirrors the museum’s prized artifacts, engaging all five senses. It’s fascinating to see these iconic pieces come to life in the form of food, creating a dynamic connection between art and gastronomy. This interactive experience is especially meaningful for guests who have visited the museum, allowing them to relate to the artifacts in a new and creative way.

Pre-book your visit to National Palace Museum via here.

Before lunch, we also participated in a Lady Bun DIY session, where we had the fun opportunity to ‘create’ our own Lady Bun before steaming it. It was a delightful and hands-on experience that added a touch of creativity to our visit!

Website: https://www.silkspalace.com.tw/en/theclassics-en

Regent Taipei offers guests the option of a guided tour to Chifeng Street, though you can also choose to explore the surrounding neighborhood at your own pace. Just a 16-minute walk from Ningxia Night Market, the hotel places you in close proximity to local gems and cultural landmarks.

If luxury shopping is your weakness, Regent Taipei is your ultimate haven. The hotel boasts The Galleria, a premier shopping destination where you can indulge in high-end retail therapy without stepping out of the property.

More than just accommodation, Regent Taipei transforms your trip into an exceptional experience. Whether you’re in town for leisure, business, or a romantic getaway, the hotel effortlessly combines comfort, sophistication, and outstanding service. Ready to treat yourself to a luxurious escape? Book your stay at Regent Taipei and create unforgettable memories in the vibrant heart of Taipei.

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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.
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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.

Are you planning a trip to Taiwan Trip, but worried about your tight travel budget? If so, then rest assured. You’re fortunate! From affordable local cuisines to famous tourist spots that cost almost nothing to visit, Taiwan has much more to offer. 

However, most people fall into the most expensive tourist traps. In order to address this issue, we’re going to present some money-saving tips to visit Taiwan. So, you can save money for your next trip or something else to do.

1. Look for Budget-friendly Accommodations

Due to an ever-evolving hospitality industry, a significant number of budget-friendly accommodations in Taiwan, especially in Taipei, are available. However, for cheap travel experiences, considering hostels are the most popular choice for prospective tourists. 

Don’t worry about the taiwan trip budget because you can get shared accommodation with other fellow budget-conscious travelers. This way, you can save more money during your trip to Taiwan. 

2. Prioritize Public Transport for Commuting 

Taiwanese public transport would be a perfect solution for you if you’re about to stay in one of the major cities on this Island. You can take advantage of worth picking up a combined metro and bus pass. By using these passes, you can travel freely on all the public transport during a specified time period. 

Not only can you travel wherever you want, but you also can save on fares. Avoid traveling in taxis. Otherwise, you will have to spend maximum fares on just a single travel. 

3. Prefer to Visit Free-of-Cost Attractions

In Taiwan, there is a whole range of captivating and mood-lifting attractions. But do you know the majority of them are free to explore? You can explore various temples and religious places with breathtaking architecture without any admission charges. 

Visiting Taipei 101 is costly, so consider hiking up the elephant mountain, which is just a short distance from the world’s tallest building. So, you can capture the retina-grabbing views of Taipei 101 and other hidden gem districts in Taipei. In short, you can have a memorable experience and, best of all, without paying even a single cent. 

4. Consider Buffet Restaurants to Dine Out

Derailing a budget-friendly trip to Taiwan is possible when it comes to deciding on a place to eat. It’s best to find a buffet restaurant so you don’t need to struggle with the language barrier. The majority of buffet restaurants mention the names of dishes and food offerings in the English language.  

Just bring a plate, pick your favorite food, and enjoy a pocket-friendly dining experience. You can try delicious and traditional Taiwanese cuisines and desserts at affordable rates. 

5. Do Clothes & Shoes Shopping at the Night Markets

Shopping malls and high street stores are too expensive everywhere. So, instead of shopping for clothes, shoes, and other accessories from such places, you need to look around Taiwan’s night markets. 

If you visit the biggest open market at night time, then you’ll surely get clothes and shoes at discounted rates. Local open markets usually have a wide selection of apparel, among other kinds of stuff. Also, try to buy clothes and shoes from stalls if you want to save money to the maximum extent. 

Taipei, Taiwan has always been one of the top favourite travel destinations for Singaporeans and Malaysians. Like Japan, I do visit Taiwan from time to time for the beautiful nature, good food, Chinese culture and meeting my Taiwanese friends. All these it’s possible to do Free & from Taipei using their metro system or hire a private car service. Read More

During my 4 days trip to Taipei, Taiwan last month, I visited Nung Chan Monastery. The monastery is located at Beitou District, Taipei, Taiwan. It is formally in 1975 by Ven. Dongchu, a scholar monk and disciple of renowned Chinese Buddhist Master Taixu. It’s named ‘ Farming Ch’an ‘ as its early residents dedicated themselves to Ch’an practice and grew their own food. (taken from Wikipedia). Read More