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Tainan, often regarded as Taiwan’s cultural capital, offers a fascinating mix of history, heritage, and modernity. As the island’s oldest city, Tainan carries the distinct marks of Dutch colonization, the Qing dynasty, and Japanese rule, creating a unique tapestry of cultures to explore. Just 1.5 hours by High-Speed Rail from Taipei, Tainan is a perfect destination for those keen to immerse themselves in its rich history. And for families looking for a comfortable, family-friendly hotel in the heart of the city, Silks Place Tainan is an excellent choice.

As far as I can remember, this was my first visit to Tainan, and I had the pleasure of staying at Silks Place Tainan. Tainan, Taiwan’s oldest city, is a captivating blend of rich history and modern charm. Founded in the 1600s during the Dutch colonization era, it was once the capital of Taiwan and continues to carry the title of the island’s cultural capital. With over 400 years of heritage, Tainan offers a fascinating mix of colonial Dutch, Qing dynasty, and Japanese influences, all woven into the fabric of the city.

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.

Location

The hotel is conveniently located in the city center. The location is an ideal base for both sightseeing and unwinding. It’s positioned close to a major department store and just a 15-minute drive from the airport, making it easy to access transportation and shopping.

The Stay

Silks Place Tainan boasts 255 well-appointed rooms, making it an ideal choice for families with its spacious accommodations and a variety of amenities for both adults and children. The rooms are offered in Regular and Silks Floors, with the latter providing access to the exclusive Silks Lounge.

For families, the Junior Family Suite stands out with its generous 52.9 sqm layout, featuring a King-sized bed, a tatami-inspired sitting area, and modern amenities such as a virtual concierge (Aiello Spot), smart TVs, and a minibar stocked with complimentary water and coffee. I had the pleasure of staying in this suite during my recent visit.

The suite’s design beautifully blends contemporary style with Japanese-inspired touches. The living area includes a large sitting space and a walk-in wardrobe, while the bedroom is separated by a sliding Japanese partition, offering a sense of privacy and tranquility.

The complimentary sparkling tea and winter melon tea ale, crafted in collaboration with local partners, were wonderfully refreshing. I love their sparkling tea!

In addition to the usual toiletries, I appreciated the thoughtful touches at Silks Place Tainan, such as the inclusion of complimentary face masks.

A Family-Friendly Hotel

At Silks Place Tainan, there’s no shortage of amenities for both adults and kids. The Kids Club is a haven for younger guests, offering games, PS4 consoles, and a variety of activities to keep them entertained. Adults can unwind at the fitness center, enjoy a refreshing dip in the pool, or simply relax in the lounge areas.

Hotel Facilities

Rooftop Infinity Pool
The temperature-controlled rooftop infinity pool offers stunning views of the city. During my visit around 5pm, it was a popular spot, with guests lounging by the pool and children enjoying the water. With cozy seating areas and even a fireplace nearby, I can easily imagine this as an ideal venue for a poolside gathering or event.

Gym
The gym at Silks Place Tainan is well-equipped, offering a good selection of free weights and cardio machines, including treadmills and bikes, making it a great spot to stay active during your stay.

Dining Experiences

Silks Place Tainan offers a variety of dining options to satisfy every taste. Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at Robin’s Grill, where a buffet featuring both Western and local specialties, including the renowned Tainan Beef Soup, awaits. Alternatively, hotel guests can enjoy a more traditional breakfast experience on the ballroom’s Level 2..

For dinner, we had the pleasure of dining at Silks House, where a team of expert chefs masterfully prepares exquisite Cantonese and Taiwanese fine-dining dishes that are sure to delight any connoisseur. The menu features a curated selection of Cantonese signature dishes, Hong Kong-style dim sum, and beloved Taiwanese classics, offering guests a top-tier dining experience. It truly was a feast for the senses.

T-Bar, located adjacent to the hotel reception, is an artisanal café offering specialty coffee along with a selection of organic Chinese and British teas. During our stay, we also had the unique experience of a perfume-making session, where the fragrance was infused with the rich scent of coffee.

During our visit, we also stopped by the Glass House bar, located beside the pool. The bar offers a playful and interactive drinking experience, featuring a 108-shot tower and a roulette-style game with shots inspired by the 36 Stratagems, a classic Chinese strategy text.

Nearby Attractions

Beyond the comforts of Silks Place Tainan, the city offers a rich tapestry of experiences that beautifully blend tradition and modernity. Just next door, you’ll find Shinkong Mitsukoshi, a popular department store for those looking to indulge in some shopping. For an authentic taste of local culture, a visit to Yongle Market is a must—here, you can savor traditional Tainan street food like pig tongue dumplings.

Tainan is also famed for its vibrant night markets, and Dadong Night Market is the perfect place to sample delicious street food, enjoy games, and soak in the lively atmosphere. To delve deeper into the city’s past, don’t miss the Old Tainan Magistrate Residence, a historical gem that now houses exhibitions, a charming café, and a boutique store. Tainan, with its unique blend of cultural attractions, delectable food, and historical sites, offers something for every traveler.

In conclusion, Tainan effortlessly weaves together the charm of its history, rich culture, and modern conveniences. Silks Place Tainan is the ideal base for exploring this fascinating city, offering luxurious accommodations, family-friendly amenities, and a central location that makes discovering Tainan’s hidden gems a breeze. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to experience more, a stay at Silks Place Tainan guarantees a memorable and enriching getaway.

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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.
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.

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