Keelung Shore: Northern Coast Tour (English licensed guide)

Taipei , Taiwan (Republic of China)

Keelung Shore: Northern Coast Tour (English licensed guide)

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About this experience

This is the perfect tour if you would like to visit the Northern part of Taiwan, while having a day off from your cruise! Your private English speaking (any other language on request) and licensed guide/driver will pick you up from Keelung Port to show Jiufen, Houtong Cat Village, Shifen and Pingxi to you in one day. Afterwards, the guide will bring you back to Keelung where the cruise will continue.

As your cruise will continue in the end of the afternoon/beginning of the evening, you will have to be back at the Port of Keelung at 16:00. Therefore, your guide will bring you back to the Port of Keelung at around 15:15 (the drive is approximately 45 minutes).

Any other guide language can be requested!

Available options

Keelung Shore: Northern Coast Tour (English licensed guide)

Pickup included

What's included

Full day private licensed guide/driver and his/her expenses

Pick up and drop off at Keelung Port

Air-conditioned vehicle

Fuel surcharge

Insurance

Parking Fees

Detailed itinerary

Your first stop will be at Jiufen Old Street. During the Qing Dynasty, the isolated village housed only nine families, thus the village would request "nine portions" every time shipments arrived from town. "Jiu" means "nine", "Fen" means "portions". Until the 1950's, Jiufen was a prosperous gold mining town but in the next years the town started its declined. This small village is located within hills, next to the mountains, and facing the ocean. Its special location, saved it from becoming another anonymous mining ghost town. Jiufen is now a popular tourist destination for Taipeites eager to relive scenes from the past.

Stop 2

Houtong Cat Village is a must-see for cat lovers; a home to hundreds of cats. The village used to be a small coal mining town during the Japanese time. However, in 2008, a local who had a huge love for cats, began taking care of the abandoned cats in the town. This person found volunteers to let them post pictures of the cats on online platforms. These pictures are noticed by tourists and nowadays it is the ultimate cat lover - destination in Taiwan.

Stop 3

Shifen Old Street is filled mainly by sky lantern and souvenir shops, grocery stores, fruits and vegetables vendors and restaurants on both sides of the railway. In little Shifen, the train passes through the village just metres from the houses; houses are really built adjacent to the rails.
Located in Pingxi District, Shifen is the most famous stop along Pingxi Branch Line. Pingxi Line was originally built to transport coal and now has transformedin to a renowned railway to discover the coal-mining history of Taiwan. About 15 to 20 minutes walking distance from the Old Street, you will find the Shi Fen Waterfall one of the the widest, largest, and most abundant water waterfalls in Taiwan.

Stop 4

About 15 to 20 minutes walking distance from the Old Street, you will find the Shi Fen Waterfall one of the the widest, largest, and most abundant water waterfalls in Taiwan.

Famous for the unique railway passes above houses and streets. Pinxi is also world renowned for their sky lanterns; visitors can write their wishes on a lantern and release it in to the sky. In almost evry little shop in the town you will find a lantern seller. The old houses have become now stores selling souvenirs and local flavored snaks. The Lantern Festival is held in February and attracts thousand of visitors, making impossible to move easily.

What's not included

Lunch

Possible entrance tickets and activities

Everything not mentioned in 'what's included'

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Taipei

Taipei, the vibrant capital of Taiwan, is a fascinating blend of traditional culture and modern innovation. Known for its bustling night markets, towering skyscrapers, and lush green mountains, Taipei offers a unique urban experience with a rich cultural heritage.

Top Attractions

Taipei 101

Once the tallest building in the world, Taipei 101 is an iconic skyscraper and a symbol of modern Taipei. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck on the 89th floor.

Architecture/Observation Deck 1-2 hours NT$600-800 (observation deck ticket)

Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

This national memorial hall is dedicated to Chiang Kai-shek, former leader of the Republic of China. The hall features a large museum, gardens, and a daily changing of the guard ceremony.

Historical/Memorial 1-2 hours Free (museum admission may vary)

Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan)

Elephant Mountain is a popular hiking spot offering one of the best views of Taipei 101 and the city skyline. The hike is relatively short and suitable for most fitness levels.

Nature/Scenic Viewpoint 1-2 hours (hike and sightseeing) Free

Shilin Night Market

One of the largest and most famous night markets in Taipei, Shilin Night Market offers a wide variety of street food, snacks, and shopping. It's a must-visit for food lovers.

Food/Market 2-3 hours Budget to moderate (depending on food and shopping)

Beitou Hot Springs

Beitou is known for its natural hot springs, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. There are several public and private hot spring resorts to choose from.

Relaxation/Spas 2-3 hours Moderate to expensive (depending on the resort)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Beef Noodle Soup

A hearty soup made with tender beef, chewy noodles, and a rich, flavorful broth. It's considered Taiwan's national dish.

Lunch/Dinner Contains beef and gluten (noodles).

Bubble Tea

A popular Taiwanese beverage made with tea, milk, and chewy tapioca pearls. It comes in various flavors and can be enjoyed hot or cold.

Drink Vegetarian (if made without dairy).

Oyster Omelet

A savory omelet made with fresh oysters, eggs, and a sweet and tangy sauce. It's a popular street food item.

Snack Contains seafood and eggs.

Stinky Tofu

Fermented tofu with a strong odor, usually deep-fried and served with pickled cabbage and sauce. It's an acquired taste but a must-try for adventurous eaters.

Snack Vegetarian (if made without meat-based broth).

Popular Activities

Hiking in Yangmingshan National Park Paragliding in Wuling Farm Visiting Beitou Hot Springs Tea tasting in Maokong Exploring historic temples and shrines Visiting museums and art galleries Kayaking in the Tamsui River Stand-up paddleboarding in Ximending

Best Time to Visit

October to December

This period offers pleasant weather with comfortable temperatures and clear skies, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. It's also the time for various festivals and events.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Mandarin Chinese
Widely spoken: English, Taiwanese (Hokkien), Hakka
English: Moderately spoken (in tourist areas and among younger generations)

Currency

New Taiwan Dollar (TWD)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

110VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Taipei is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, visitors should still take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night

Getting there

By air

Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport • 40 km from city center
Taipei Songshan Airport • 10 km from city center

By train

Taipei Main Station, Banqiao Station

By bus

Taipei Bus Station, Taipei City Hall Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Taipei Metro is clean, efficient, and easy to use. It operates from 6:00 AM to midnight and has both English and Chinese signage.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Taiwan Taxi App

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Ximending Daan Zhongshan

Day trips

Jiufen

40 km from Taipei • Half day to full day

A charming mountain town known for its narrow streets, tea houses, and historic sites. Jiufen is often compared to a smaller version of Tokyo's Golden Gai.

Yehliu Geopark

40 km from Taipei • Half day

A unique geopark featuring fascinating rock formations, including the famous Queen's Head, created by erosion over thousands of years.

Tamsui

15 km from Taipei • Half day to full day

A historic district at the mouth of the Tamsui River, known for its beautiful sunset views, historic sites, and vibrant night market.

Festivals

Taipei Lantern Festival • February (dates vary, typically around the Chinese New Year) Taipei Pride • Late October (dates vary) Taipei International Food Show • June (dates vary)

Pro tips

Use the EasyCard for convenient and discounted payments on public transportation, as well as for access to some attractions and shops.
Visit popular attractions, such as Taipei 101 and the National Palace Museum, early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
Explore the city's vibrant night markets, such as Shilin and Raohe, for an authentic and unforgettable culinary experience.
Take a day trip to nearby attractions, such as Jiufen, Yehliu Geopark, and Tamsui, to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region.
Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases to enhance your travel experience and connect with locals.