Keelung, Taiwan, is a fascinating city that is often referred to as a ″ghost town․″ Despite being less than an hour away from Taipei, Keelung is not frequently visited by tourists․ However, this coastal town has its own unique charm and offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy․
History of Keelung
Keelung is one of Taiwan’s major ports and has a rich history that dates back to the Qing dynasty when immigrants from Fujian settled in the area․ The city’s location along the northeast coast of Taiwan makes it an important trading hub and a gateway to the island․ Today, Keelung is known for its bustling port and vibrant cultural heritage․
Keelung Mid-Summer Ghost Festival
One of the highlights of Keelung’s cultural calendar is the Keelung Mid-Summer Ghost Festival․ This festival is one of the 12 major festivals designated by the Tourism Administration in Taiwan․ It is believed to have started during the Qing dynasty and has continued to be celebrated for over 160 years․
The Keelung Mid-Summer Ghost Festival is a unique event that features various activities and performances․ These include art exhibitions, famous groups from Taiwan and abroad, and traditional rituals to honor the spirits of the deceased․ The festival aims to promote solidarity and mutual blessing among the community․
Things to Do in Keelung
Despite its reputation as a ghost town, Keelung offers a range of attractions and activities for visitors․ Here are some of the top things to do in Keelung⁚
- Explore the picturesque coastline and enjoy the stunning views․
- Visit the Three Big Temples, which are the Chenghuang Temple, Qingan Temple, and Dianji Temple․
- Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Keelung Night Market and sample delicious local street food․
- Take a stroll around Zhongzheng Park and admire the panoramic views of the city․
- Learn about the city’s maritime history at the Keelung Maritime Plaza․
Getting to Keelung
Keelung is easily accessible from Taipei by train, with the journey taking less than an hour․ The city also has a well-connected public transportation system, making it convenient to get around and explore the various attractions․ Visitors can also consider joining guided tours to make the most of their visit to Keelung․
Accommodation in Keelung
For those planning to stay overnight in Keelung, there are various accommodation options available․ From budget-friendly hostels for solo travelers and backpackers to hotels suitable for couples and families, visitors can find a range of choices to suit their preferences and budget․
In Conclusion
Despite its reputation as a ghost town, Keelung, Taiwan, offers a unique and memorable experience for visitors․ From its fascinating history to its vibrant festivals and stunning coastal scenery, Keelung has something to offer for everyone․ Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s cultural heritage, indulging in local cuisine, or simply relaxing by the sea, Keelung is a hidden gem that is worth discovering․
