HazelDiary

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!

Follow me on Facebook and Instagram and Tiktok 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.

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

Apart from famous Din Tai Fung in Taipei, you can opt for Kao Chi at Yong Kang Street, Taipei. The restaurant has several outlets across Taipei. But the one in Yong Kang Street seems to be a popular destination because of it’s 3-storey flagship store. The brand is established since 1949 and has been serving Shanghainese dishes. We arrived around 11 plus in the morning and got our queue number from the staff. We waited less than 20 minutes and managed to secure a table at level 3. Read More

Lu Rou Fan or we called it Braised Pork Rice 滷肉飯 is listed top Taiwanese cuisine all time. It is a Taiwanese specialty dish that is simple and comforting. Braised pork rice bowl in savoury, rice sauce and drizzled over the rice. Yummy! Our hotel receptionist recommended Huang Ji Braised Pork Rice that is located near to Aloft Hotel Taipei Zhongshan.It is also located next to Qingguang market and 7-eleven convenience store near to the hotel. Read More

Just like Singapore, Taipei’s café culture has been trending over the past few years. So during my recent trip to Taipei, I did café hopping with my foodie friends. The cafes here are so different from Singapore and Malaysia. It is a place not just for food and drinks, but also an instagram-worthy spots for photography too. Each café has own unique concept and designs. The locals here also enjoyed hanging out in cafes for hours. It is a part of the current lifestyle now. Read More

When in Taipei, Fu Hang Dou Jiang is one of the must-visit breakfast places for tourists. Fu Hang Dou Jiang is located at Huashan Market (华山市场), a walking distance from Shandao Temple MRT Station (捷运善导寺站) opens at 5.30am daily except on Mondays. Their speciality is their authentic and traditional Taiwanese style breakfast food. Read More