Keelung is a working port city on Taiwan's northeast coast, about 30 minutes from Taipei by train. It is one of the rainiest cities in Taiwan and emphatically not a polished tourist destination. That is part of its appeal. The harbour is the real thing — container ships, fishing boats, and a waterfront that smells of diesel and salt air rather than designer perfume.
The Miaokou Night Market, clustered around the Dianji Temple near the harbour, is one of the best night markets in Taiwan and far less touristed than the famous Taipei markets. Grilled corn, braised pork rice, herbal duck soup, and crab congee are among the specialities. The market runs every evening and is at its best after dark, when the neon signs reflect off wet pavement.
The waterfront area has been cleaned up in recent years and has decent seafood restaurants. Zhongzheng Park on the hillside above the harbour has a large white Guanyin statue visible from the port and good views over the city. Keelung is also the departure point for ferries to the Matsu islands, and makes a natural base for exploring the dramatic northeast coast — Jiufen, Pingxi, and the Bitou Cape trail are all within easy reach.