Popular Transport in Keelung

From Taipei Main Station to Keelung, there are mainly two convenient transportation options: train and bus. Taking a Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) local or express train will take you directly to Keelung Station, with a journey time of approximately 40 to 50 minutes and frequent services. Alternatively, you can take a bus from around Taipei Main Station to Keelung, such as Kuo-Kuang Motor Transport. The travel time is about 40 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Both methods provide quick and easy access to Keelung city center, allowing travelers to choose based on their needs.

Renting a scooter in Keelung city center is indeed a very convenient choice for travelers who wish to explore freely. Some roads in Keelung city are relatively narrow and have many slopes; the maneuverability of a scooter allows for easy navigation through streets and alleys, making it convenient to visit attractions like Miaokou Night Market, Zhengbin Harbor, or Heping Island Park. However, parking spaces in the city center can be limited, so it's advisable to plan parking locations in advance. If you are unfamiliar with the road conditions or local traffic rules, ride cautiously to ensure a safe journey.

In addition to convenient transportation, Keelung boasts rich tourist attractions and specialty foods. Must-visit sites include the historic Heping Island Park, known for its unique mushroom-shaped rocks and wave-cut platforms; the colorful Zhengbin Harbor houses, a popular spot for photos; and Wanghai Lane Chaojing Park, offering views of Keelung Islet. For food lovers, the world-renowned Keelung Miaokou Night Market is a must. Here, you can savor diverse local snacks like Dingbiancuo, nutritious sandwiches, tempura, and bubble ice, each with its unique Keelung flavor.

When traveling from Taipei to Keelung, both train and bus have their advantages in terms of time efficiency. Trains (TRA) are generally less affected by road traffic, offering relatively stable travel times of about 40-50 minutes to Keelung Station. Buses have frequent services and can be boarded at multiple locations in Taipei, directly reaching Keelung city center. However, travel time might be extended during peak hours due to traffic congestion, taking about 40-60 minutes. If time stability is your priority, the train is a good choice. If boarding convenience is more important, buses offer more options. Travelers can evaluate based on their departure point and current traffic conditions.

The Lunar New Year period is a peak travel season in Taiwan, and public transportation to Keelung will indeed be more crowded. Both train and bus services are expected to see a significant increase in passengers, and services may be fully occupied. It is recommended that travelers depart earlier and allow ample travel time. For longer journeys on public transport, consider booking tickets in advance. Moving around within the city, such as by bus or taxi, may also involve longer waiting times or delays due to crowds, so patience and flexibility in your itinerary are advised.

From Keelung Port, there are currently regular ferry services primarily to Matsu. Taking the 'Taima Star' or 'Taima Ferry' can get you to Matsu's Nangan or Dongyin. The voyage is quite long, offering a unique experience of an overnight stay on the ship. For travelers heading to Penghu, ferries are usually taken from ports on the western side of Taiwan's main island, such as Taichung Port or Kaohsiung Port, or by flying from airports across Taiwan. Keelung Port currently does not have regular direct ferry services to Penghu. Travelers should confirm their destination and choose the appropriate mode of transport.

Public transportation within Keelung city center mainly consists of city buses, which have extensive networks connecting major attractions, commercial districts, and surrounding areas. Many bus routes serve Keelung Station, Miaokou Night Market, Zhongzheng Park, and the National Museum of Marine Science and Technology, making them an economical choice for both locals and tourists. Additionally, taxi services are widely available, especially at transportation hubs and popular spots like night markets; hailing a cab or using a ride-hailing app is convenient. Some areas of the city are also suitable for walking to experience the port city's charm.

Parking options in Keelung city center are relatively diverse, including both public and private parking lots, located around the train station, near Miaokou Night Market, and close to major attractions. Examples include Dong'an Parking Lot and Xin'er Multi-level Parking Lot. Fees are typically charged by the hour, and rates may vary depending on the location, with higher charges in popular tourist areas. Given Keelung's compact street layout, it is advisable for drivers to check surrounding parking information for their destination in advance or to utilize public transportation to save time searching for parking.

Finding a taxi around the Keelung Port Authority Building is generally quite convenient. As the Port Authority Building is a significant transportation hub and gateway for tourists, there are often taxi stands nearby, or taxis may be waiting in the vicinity for passengers. Travelers can simply wait at the exit or a conspicuous spot to find a taxi. Furthermore, if you need to book a taxi, you can use mobile applications for added convenience. Therefore, whether you're heading to the city center or nearby attractions, taking a taxi from the Port Authority Building is very convenient.

In addition to common train and bus services, Keelung offers some unique transportation experiences. For instance, the 'Keelung Islet Tour' is a special experience that combines transportation with sightseeing. Travelers can take a tour boat to Keelung Islet, where they can join guided tours and hiking, enjoying views of Keelung Bay from the sea. Additionally, some operators offer 'Keelung Harbor Boat Tours,' allowing visitors to appreciate the harbor landscape and city skyline from different perspectives. These are unique ways to combine tourism and transportation, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to your trip.