When planning a trip to Taiwan, most travelers know Chiayi as the gateway to Alishan National Park. Personally, that is one of the main reasons I visited.  The other reason I visited Chiayi was because it was home to the 2026 Taiwan Lantern Festival.  I decided to stay a few nights in Chiayi to see what the city had to offer. What I found was a charming city filled with Japanese-era history, cultural attractions, beautiful parks, and delicious food.  In this guide, I’ll share the best things to do in Chiayi City, along with a practical one-day Chiayi itinerary to help you make the most of your visit to Chiayi.  Whether you are looking for a stop before heading to Alishan or wondering if Chiayi is worth visiting on its own, this Chiayi guide will help you plan the perfect day in what I think is an underrated destination in Taiwan.  ** This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of the links or widgets throughout the page, whether it be Viator, Booking.com, Agoda, or any other affiliate, I might receive commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, you can visit my affiliate link page here. Thanks for the support! Is Chiayi City Worth Visiting? After spending two days in Chiayi, I can honestly say, yes, Chiayi City is worth visiting. Especially if you are looking for a city in Taiwan that isn’t very touristy and combines culture, history, local food, and easy access to beautiful nature.  Many visitors skip Chiayi altogether and head directly to Alishan National Forest Recreation Area.  I think spending at least 1-day in Chiayi allows you to experience a different side of Taiwan away from famous cities like Taipei and Kaohsiung.  Where is Chiayi City? Chiayi City is located in southwestern Taiwan, roughly between Taipei and Kaohsiung.  Chiayi City is situated at the foot of the Alishan mountain range and serves as the gateway to Alishan National Forest Recreation Area.  Thanks to Taiwan’s High Speed Rail (HSR), Chiayi is easy to reach from major cities across Taiwan. The journey is about 90 minutes from Taipei and less then an hour from Kaohsiung. Best Things to do in Chiayi City From historic landmarks and Japanese-era architecture to scenic parks and bustling night markets, there are plenty of things to do in Chiayi City.  Whether you plan on visiting Chiayi for a day before heading to Alishan or staying longer, these recommended things to do in Chiayi showcase the city’s unique culture, history, and food scene.  Here you can find some of the best attractions and places to add to your Chiayi itinerary.  Visit Hinoki Village One of the best things to do in Chiayi City is to visit Hinoki Village. This is a beautifully preserved collection of Japanese-era buildings.  The buildings here once were home to forestry workers during Taiwan’s logging boom.  Today, Hinoki Village has been transformed into a tourist attraction filled with cute shops, cafes, and exhibits.  There are a lot of cute Japanese characters scattered around Hinoki Village that are fun to take photos of or with.  Tour Chiayi Old Prison I love dark tourism sites and unique attractions, so visiting the Chiayi Old Prison was a must for me. It’s a free attraction in Chiayi that I highly recommend adding to your itinerary.  This is one of the few remaining Japanese-era prisons in Taiwan. The old prison is free to enter and visitors have the opportunity to see the preserved cell blocks, courtyards, and look into the everyday life of the prisoners.  If you are interested in history and off-the-beaten path attractions, this is definitely one of the more interesting things to do in Chiayi City.  Walk Through Chiayi Park Chiayi Park is one of the city’s most popular green spaces and a wonderful place to take a break while sightseeing.  I visited Chiayi Park after visiting the Old Prison, stopped by a Hilife convenience store for drinks and snacks and spent an hour walking through the park.  Explore the Chiayi Botanical Garden Another completely free attraction in Chiayi is the Botanical Gardens. It’s located at the edge of Chiayi Park and I simply walked in.  I was amazed by how diverse the park was. I walked around ponds, through palm forests, and among towering pine trees. I really just enjoyed wandering the shaded paths learning about the regions connection to forestry and conservation.  Eat at Wenhua Road Night Market No visit to Chiayi is complete without spending an evening at Wenhua Road Night Market.  At Wenhua Road Night Market, you can find Chiayi’s claim to fame, Turkey Rice. You can also find a lot of traditional Taiwanese night market specialties.  I actually spent two nights in Chiayi and visited the night market both evenings. I found plenty of delicious Taiwanese food items to try. I loved the pepper buns and Taiwan Hamburgers.  Suggested 1-Day Itinerary If you only have one day in Chiayi City, don’t worry! You can still experience many of the city’s highlights.  This itinerary combines history, culture, nature, and food and follows my exact journey that I took to explore Chiayi’s top attractions and things to do.  Keep in mind, Chiayi is fairly pedestrian friendly. I ended up walking everywhere but took an Uber from the Botanical Gardens back to my hotel.  If you prefer not to walk to each attraction, Uber works great in Chiayi City.  Morning Hinoki Village → Chiayi Old Prison → Bubble Tea I started the day off in Hinoki Village.  After visiting Hinoki Village, I walked about 5-10 minutes to Chiayi Old Prison.  Taiwan is known for Bubble Tea, so I found a nice refreshing tea from a local shop near the prison.  This to me felt like the perfect way to spend a relaxed morning in Chiayi. Afternoon Lunch → Chiayi Park → Chiayi Botanical Garden After a busy morning of sightseeing and navigating around Chiayi, I stopped for lunch at a local restaurant on the way to Chiayi Park.  This is the perfect opportunity to try Chiayi’s famous turkey rice. We found a hole in the wall shop to sit at and enjoy.  Once we refueled, we spent about an hour walking in Chiayi Park and even walked on a reflexology pebble path. These things hurt so bad but feel so good on the feet afterwards.  We then walked directly into Chiayi Botanical Gardens after visiting the park. From here, we walked random trails until content. The botanical gardens are beautiful and not to be missed.  Evening/Night Freshen up at Hotel → Wenhua Road Night Market → Taiwanese Foot Massage After a full day of exploring Chiayi, I took an Uber from the botanical gardens back to the hotel to freshen up and relax before going back out in the evening.  My hotel was within walking distance to the Wenhua Road Night Market and I had dinner here trying as much as I could from pepper buns to fried pork and seafood.  A tradition of mine every time I visit Taiwan includes finishing the day with a foot massage. I recommend treating yourself to a traditional foot massage, it’s the perfect way to soothe your tired feet at the end of the day.  Where to Stay I stayed two nights in Chiayi. One night was just that, a night to catch the bus to Alishan the next morning. I stayed near the Chiayi Train Station at Chiayi Yoyo Hotel.  After Alishan I stayed at a hotel more central and closer to some of the attractions. I stayed at the Maison De Chine Hotel. This hotel was really nice with pleasant staff and a solid breakfast.  Chiayi Yoyo HotelAddress: 600, Taiwan, Chiayi City, West District, Shuyuan Village, Zhongshan Rd, 617號11樓 Maison De Chine HotelAddress: No. 257號, Wenhua Rd, Beimen Village, West District, Chiayi City, Taiwan 600 2026 Taiwan Lantern Festival Besides visiting Alishan the main reason I visited Chiayi was for the 2026 Taiwan Lantern Festival. For those that don’t know. Every year, Taiwan hosts an annual lantern festival. It takes place in a different city or area every year, great for tourism!  This year, 2026 Chiayi hosted the annual Taiwan Lantern Festival.  The lantern festival was a bit out of town and honestly a bit chaotic with the bus systems but it was still magnificent and fun to watch.  The Taiwan Lantern Festival is an expansive area with lantern displays, light installations, cultural performances, interactive exhibits, and night markets. Frequently Asked Questions About Chiayi Is Chiayi City Worth Visiting? I think Chiayi City is pretty underrated and deserves at least one day to explore. Chiayi has a great food scene, plenty of things to do, and it’s easy to get around and enjoy the city.  How Many Days do you Need in Chiayi? In my opinion, one day in Chiayi is plenty of time to see the main attractions and enjoy traditional food. If you are visiting Alishan from Chiayi, do yourself a favor and add a day to your Taiwan itinerary to explore Chiayi.  What is Chiayi Known For? Chiayi is best known as the gateway to Alishan, but within the city it’s known for Hinoki Village and food wise, turkey rice.  Can you Visit Chiayi as a Day Trip? Yes, Chiayi can easily be visited as a day trip from all major cities in Taiwan. It’s easily linked to the HSR.  The Gateway to Alishan For many travelers, Chiayi City is the gateway to Alishan National Forest Recreation Area, one of Taiwan’s most famous mountain destinations.  I caught the local bus from Chiayi Station to Alishan, but there is also an option to take the scenic Railway from Chiayi.  Alishan is well worth a visit and I highly recommend going as either a day trip from Chiayi or staying the night in Alishan.  Alishan is known for its hiking, high mountain oolong tea, beautiful sunrise views, and cozy mountain atmosphere. I absolutely loved it here, it’s one of my favorite places in Taiwan.  Conclusion Chiayi City is best known as the gateway to Alishan, but after spending a day exploring its sights and attractions, I found Chiayi to be a destination worth visiting on its own.  From the historic charm of Hinoki Village to the amazing food at Wenhua Road Night Market, there are plenty of things to do in Chiayi City. Whether you are stopping over before heading to Alishan or looking for an underrated destination in Taiwan, I highly recommend setting aside at least one day to check out Chiayi.  Enjoying my photos and want to see more? Check out my Picfair Store. 📸   Plan Your Trip: 🗺️✈️ 🇹🇼    Booking Accommodations ⛺️ 🛖  For booking recommendations on the best deals and locations, check out Agoda or Booking.com Activities and Tours  🏖 🚁  Find fun activities and things to do through Tripadvisor. If you are looking for tours and day trips, Viator and Get Your Guide have a lot of great options.  In need of a car rental? 🚗 🚘  I recommend checking with Rental Cars.

Keelung is often overlooked by travelers who prioritize places like Taipei, Jiufen, and other tourist attractions. After spending three days in Keelung and exploring this northern port city, it ended up being one of my favorite places in Taiwan.  I spent three full days here – exploring every alley, eating at every stall I could find, and honestly falling a little in love with this city that most tourists only see from a cruise deck.  What follows is everything I know, organized so you can have the best possible experience.  “Keelung doesn’t try to impress you. It just quietly goes about being one of the most atmospheric, delicious, and genuinely memorable places in all of Taiwan.” And here’s the thing: because Keelung is still flying under the radar, you’ll have experiences here that are genuinely rare in Asia – authentic food, dramatic coastlines, and almost zero tourists. That window won’t stay open forever.  ** This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of the links or widgets throughout the page, whether it be Viator, Booking.com, Agoda, or any other affiliate, I might receive commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, you can visit my affiliate link page here. Thanks for the support! Is Keelung Worth Visiting? (The Honest Answer) ✅ The Verdict: Yes — Absolutely. Keelung is worth visiting if you want to see a part of Taiwan that feels completely real. Not tourist-packaged, not Instagram-staged — just a working port city with incredible food, dramatic coastlines, and a personality that’s entirely its own. Keelung is perfect for you if : 🍜 You want the best night market food in Taiwan (better than Shilin — yes, I said it) 📸 You’re chasing dramatic, photogenic scenery without the crowds 🐟 You love seafood — some of the freshest in all of Asia is right here 🔍 You prefer exploring cities the way locals actually live in them 💰 You’re budget-conscious — Keelung costs 30–40% less than Taipei Where is Keelung? Keelung is a coastal port city located in northern Taiwan. It’s about 25 kilometers northeast of Taipei.  Keelung is known for its busy harbor, beautiful coastline, and rainy/cloudy weather. It’s also a great location to explore other areas of northern Taiwan like Houtong Cat Village, Jiufen, or Yehliu Geopark.  When Is the Best Time to Visit Keelung? Keelung is Taiwan’s rainiest city — which sounds like a problem, but it’s actually what keeps the crowds away. Rain is part of the atmosphere here, especially at the fishing port at dusk. That said, timing matters: Edit Season Months Conditions Verdict Best October – December Cool, fewer crowds, occasional rain ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Great March – May Warm, spring energy, mild rain ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Good June – September Hot, humid — but Ghost Festival in August ⭐⭐⭐ Skip January – February Cold, very rainy, some closures ⭐⭐ 🔥 PRO TIP TheZhongyuan Ghost Festival in August is one of the most spectacular events in Taiwan — Keelung hosts the largest version in the country. Lanterns, ceremonies, and a city-wide ritual atmosphere. If you can time it, do. How to Get to Keelung from Taipei Getting to Keelung is one of the easiest parts of your Taiwan trip — and genuinely affordable. You have three options: 🚌 Option 1: Bus – Recommended The bus is the best option for most visitors. It drops you at Keelung Bus Station — a 10-minute walk from MiaoKou Night Market and Zhongzheng Park. Buses depart every 10–15 minutes from Taipei Main Station from early morning until midnight. At Taipei Main Station, look for the Kuo-Kuang Bus counters and signs for 1813 Keelung. Stand in line at Bus Stop #1 and wait for the Keelung bus to arrive. If you are unsure about which stop, there are signs and you can always ask the bus driver just to make sure. Cost: ~NT$95 (≈ $3 USD) each way Duration: 40–60 minutes (traffic-dependent) Tip: Use your EasyCard — no cash needed, just tap on and off Buy online: Kuo-Kuang Motor Transport — no advance booking needed, just show up 🚆 Option 2: Train Train run from Taipei Main Station to Keelung Station in about 45 minutes. Cost: NT$41-52.  Board a northbound train heading toward Keelung. Local trains are frequent throughout the day. 🚗 Option 3: Uber or Taxi If you’re traveling as a group of 3-4, splitting an Uber can match or beat individual bus tickets – and get you there in 35-40 minutes. Expect to pay around NT$600 – 800 from Central Taipei. Getting Around Keelung Luckily, getting around Keelung is fairly easy, especially if you are staying near the station or Maritime Plaza. Most of the cities main attractions are within walking distance of each other.  For attractions that are farther out like Heping Island Park and the Shen’ao Rail Bike, I recommend hailing a taxi or using Uber.  Uber works well in Taiwan. In fact, the whole time I was in Keelung, I relied on Uber to get me to places that were farther out.  Where to Stay in Keelung Keelung is a walkable city, so in reality staying anywhere near the train station, Maritime Plaza, or MiaoKou Night Market, is a decent place to stay in Keelung.  Based on price and location, I stayed at the Keebe Hotel and really enjoyed my stay here.  Keebe Hotel was right next to all the action. The second I stepped out the front door, I was already at the Keelung MiaoKou Night Market. It was near many convenience stores, restaurants, and just a few minutes walk to the Maritime Plaza and train station.  If interested in staying at the same hotel I did, check out the Keebe Hotel, here.  Keebe HotelAddress: No. 215號, Rener Rd, Yutian Village, Ren’ai District, Keelung City, Taiwan 20048 My Recommended Places to Stay in Keelung.  Keebe Hotel: Check prices and availability here.  Enzo House: Check prices and availability here.  Taipei Base vs Keelung Base This is the most common question I get about Keelung trips. Here’s the honest answer: Stay in Taipei If… You’re visiting multiple destinations around Taiwan (Jiufen, Sun Moon Lake, etc.) You want excellent transport links and a wide restaurant scene Keelung is just one day on a longer Taiwan trip Stay in Keelung If… You want to wake up to harbor views and the sound of fishing boats at dawn You want to experience the night market both at peak time (7–9pm) and after midnight when the vendors pack up Budget matters — Keelung hotels cost 30–40% less than comparable Taipei options You’re a photographer — the early morning harbor light is extraordinary and only accessible if you’re staying there Edit Factor Base in Taipei Base in Keelung Average nightly cost $70–120 USD $45–80 USD Distance to Keelung 40–55 min bus/train You’re already there Airport access (TPE) Excellent (40 min MRT) ~60 min by bus Food & nightlife variety Excellent Great (Miaokou focus) Crowds & noise Moderate to high Low Best for 1-day trip visitors Immersive 2+ day stays Best Things to do in Keelung Despite often being treated as a quick day trip from Taipei, Keelung has plenty to offer. In this Keelung travel guide, I’ll cover the best things to do and provide tips and recommendations along the way.  These are in no particular order, I’ll provide a Keelung itinerary further along in the post to help you maximize your time spent in Keelung.  Walk Around Heping Island Park 01 – Best for Nature There are a few geoparks along the north coast of Taiwan, Yehliu Geopark is the most famous one but then there is Heping Island Park.  Heping Island Park is one of the best places to experience the dramatic coastal scenery around Keelung. It’s just a short bus ride away from the city center. We arrived here by Uber from the Shen’ao Rail Bike and took an Uber back to Keelung.  There are several maintained trails here where you can see the unique rock formations and get stunning ocean viewpoints. There are also seasonal swimming areas in the park.  Heping Island Park is a photographers paradise. The rock formations, ocean views, and just stunning landscape make it a unique and must visit attraction while staying in Keelung.  Sample Street Food at MiaoKou Night Market I love Night Markets in Taiwan and MiaoKou Night Market ranks up there as one of the best. For many, MiaoKou Night Market is the main reason to visit Keelung. MiaoKou Night Market is just a few blocks from the train station and Maritime Plaza. This night market is famous for its fresh seafood, traditional Taiwanese street food, and lively atmosphere.  Walking through the glowing yellow lanterns and browsing the crowded food stalls is an experience on its own.  Popular dishes here include crab soup, oyster omelets, tempura, grilled squid, and hundreds of other delicious food dishes to try.  Some of my favorite things to try at MiaoKou Night Market include the One-Bite Sausages, Scallion Pancakes, Fried Rib Tips, Sugar Coated Fruits, and various styles of dumplings that I tried.  👉 If you are new to traveling in Taiwan, I highly recommend trying out a food tour. Knowledgeable guides will take you to hidden spots and have you try must eat dishes. I recommend this Keelung Food Tour.  Visit Zhengbin Fishing Port In almost any Keelung Travel Guide, you’ll see Zhengbin Fishing Port as it is one of the more photogenic places in Keelung. This fishing port has become famous especially with influencers because of the colorful row of waterfront buildings that overlook the harbor. The area combines Keelung’s old fishing port with trendy cafes, local restaurants, and scenic ocean views.  The port is especially beautiful around sunset when the colorful buildings reflect across the water, making it one of the best photography spots in northern Taiwan.  At Zhengbin Fishing Port there is also the famous T-Ham Bus Station. The T-Ham Bus Station resembles an old school American Diner that sells hotdogs. I am not entirely sure what the story is behind the T-Ham Bus Station, but it’s a quirky attraction that is fun to take photos of or with. It is an active bus stop, so you can hop on the bus here back to the center of Keelung.  Explore Zhongzheng Park Zhongzheng Park is an interesting attraction in Keelung. It’s a bit quirky, interesting, beautiful, quiet, and even busy all at once.  Getting here, I took the elevator at Keelung Tower up and walked past the beautiful Pagoda. From the Pagoda, I walked to Zhongzheng Park.  The park is on a hill, elevated from the rest of the city. Because of this, you get some of the best panoramic views of Keelung. The park is famous for its massive white Goddess Guanyin Statue and the golden guardian lions.  Zhongzheng Park is also a great place for families. The day I was here, there were a lot of kid events going on. It almost feels like a theme park here but it is a temple complex with a lot going on!  Enjoy the Energy at Maritime Plaza Located along the waterfront near the train station, Keelung Maritime Plaza is one of the best places to see the harbor and take photos. The open promenade overlooks the busy port where you can see fishing boats, giant cruise ships, and cargo ships. The Maritime Plaza is a popular gathering spot for both locals and tourists. There was a lot of fun lights strung out at night, silly mascots, and tons of people taking memorable photos. Check out the 100-Year Bomb Shelter Just searching Keelung on Google Maps, I discovers a Point of Interest for this 100-Year Bomb Shelter and it was not far from the MiaoKou Night Market.  According to an old sign posted here, it’s listed as a Centennial Air Raid Shelter and was built in 1903 during Japanese occupation.  Today, the bomb shelter has now been converted into a passageway in a residential area. It’s free to visit and walk

Located along Taiwan’s rugged northeast coast just outside of Keelung, the Shen’ao Rail Bike Experience is one of those activities that feels both unique and effortlessly fun!  Just a short trip from Taipei and near the port city of Keelung, this converted railway ride lets you pedal your way along a scenic stretch of coastline, complete with ocean views, tunnels, and authentic charm.  The Shen’ao Rail Bike is a relaxing experience that is a beginner-friendly experience perfect for couples, families, or anyone really looking to add something different to their Taiwan itinerary. In this guide, I’ll cover what you need to know about the Shen’ao Rail Bike Experience, from how to get there and book tickets to what to expect. If you are planning a day trip from Taipei or Keelung, this attraction is definitely worth it!  ** This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of the links or widgets throughout the page, whether it be Viator, Booking.com, Agoda, or any other affiliate, I might receive commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, you can visit my affiliate link page here. Thanks for the support! What is the Shen’ao Rail Bike? The Shen’ao Rail Bike is a unique and fun outdoor activity in northern Taiwan that lets you ride a small, pedal powered cart in the shape of an ocean character. The experience takes place along a restored section of coastal railway. Located near Keelung and an easy day trip from Taipei, this scenic activity follows a short part of the former Shen’ao Line, which was used to transport industrial materials. The old rail has been converted into this fun tourist attraction.  The route itself is relatively short, it’s only about 1.3 kilometers (0.8 miles) one way and takes around 20-30 minutes to complete. I highly recommend doing a roundtrip journey. While it’s not a long adventure, the Shen’ao Rail Bike is a must do activity, especially if visiting Keelung or looking for things to do around Taipei. The Shen’ao Rail Bike is a great combination of coastal scenery, light activity, and is fun for everyone! How to Get to Shen’ao Rail Bike The Shen’ao Rail Bike is located along Taiwan’s northern coast near the coastal town of Keelung and about an hour from Taipei.  The ride itself starts at either Badouzi Station or Shen’ao Station. From what I’ve experienced, most visitors choose Badouzi Station as the starting point. When doing a roundtrip journey, it also ends at Badouzi Station.  There are numerous ways to get to Badouzi Station, I’ll list the specifics here. From Taipei Train & Short Transfer Take a train from Taipei Main Station to Ruifang. Transfer to the local line toward Badouzi. Get off at Badouzi Station.  Direct Bus Take Bus 1579 from Taipei (City Hall area) to Badouzi. Taxi or Ride Share From Taipei, it’s about a 45-60 minute ride.  Taiwan does use Uber and it works really well.  From Keelung Taxi or Ride Share We stayed in Keelung and just took an Uber to Badouzi Station. This method was quick and inexpensive.  Bus Bus 791, 1051, T99 For updated bus routes and times, I recommend visiting the Shen’ao Rail Bike website.  Tickets and How to Book Booking tickets for the Shen’ao Rail Bike in advance is highly recommended. It’s a popular activity and time slots do sell out. The day we went, there was a bus full of tourists already in line.  Ticket Prices One-way Ticket Price: NT$150Round-trip Price (Recommended): NT$300 👉 Each Rail Bike seats 2 people and the ride is about 20-30 minutes one-way.  For updated ticket prices and discount prices, check the official Shen’ao Rail Bike website.  How to Book You can book tickets directly through the official Shen’ao Rail Bike website.  You can book your ticket 30 days in advance. For online booking, register as a member, through the website.  At the Login page, you can create an account or use an existing account.  Go to Book Now, here you have the option to purchase your one-way or Round-trip ticket and select either Badouzi Station or Shen’ao Station.  Select the date, time, and number of passengers.  You will then fill in your personal information and pay for your tickets.  You will then get a confirmation email with a QR Code. Simply show this at the station you are embarking on.  What to Expect on the Ride I did a similar rail bike experience in the Japanese Prefecture of Akita, but that rail was more of a bike on a small track, so I kind of expected the Shen’ao Rail Bike to be similar.  The Shen’ao Rail Bike was a different experience, each pair of people get their own covered cart with a pedal and brake. For the most part, it was pretty comfortable and easy to operate.  Each cart is designed for two people and runs along a fixed track, no steering involved, just pedaling and enjoying the views.  The day I went, there was a tourist bus that just parked so nearly every cart was full. At first I thought it would take away from the atmosphere but in reality it did not affect my experience one bit.  So, if you already have a ticket, don’t worry if the Shen’ao Rail Bike is crowded.  Once you disembark from Badouzi Station, you’ll start pedaling and notice how quickly the scenery opens up. The track hugs the coastline, so you get amazing views of the Pacific Ocean.  One of the highlights along the ride is passing through the tunnel. The tunnel was lit with colorful lights making the experience even more exciting!  It’s a fun contrast to the natural scenery outside one moment and the next moment, you are going through a tunnel with exciting light displays.  Shortly after the tunnel, we rode through a forested area before making our way to the end of the track. It’s short, only 1.3 kilometers, so I recommend doing what we did, and paying for the round-trip option.  The staff turns all the carts around and you simply pedal back the same way.  Since you are pedaling at a slow pace, there are plenty of opportunities to take photos and videos.  The Shen’ao Rail Bike is all about enjoying the short, scenic ride and creating fun memories with your passenger.  Rules for Riding Just so you are aware of the Rules and Regulations, I’ve included them below. These are taken directly from the inside of the rail bike. ✅ Keep your seatbelt on at all times. ✅ Take care of personal belongings and don’t disembark or personal items. Contact staff if something is dropped. ✅ Keep 5-meters distance between your cart and the rail bike ahead of you. ✅ Don’t stand, jump, or shake the rail bike. ✅Wear appropriate clothing, don’t let it get caught in the pedals. ✅Be mindful of the surroundings and be careful when getting on/off the rail bikes. ✅ No eating, smoking, or littering on the rail bike.  Is the Shen’ao Rail Bike Worth It? I spent a long weekend in Keelung and the primary reason I went was to experience the Shen’ao Rail Bike. Because of this, my expectations were kind of high and it did not disappoint. I can honestly say that the Shen’ao Rail Bike is well worth it!  The rail bike is less about the adrenaline like you might think but it’s more about enjoying a short and scenic journey along Taiwan’s beautiful coastline with someone you truly love or at least like enough to share a rail bike with.  Conclusion The Shen’ao Rail Bike might not be the longest or thrilling adventure Taiwan has to offer, but that is not really the point here. What it does offer is something simple and memorable, a short journey along Taiwan’s beautiful coastline at a relaxed pace.  Its location near Keelung and being close to Taipei it’s an easy addition to any north coast Taiwan itinerary. I loved the Shen’ao Rail Bike, it was exactly what I expected and needed. It’s a short half-day activity that allowed me to get fresh air, do something fun, and see beautiful nature.  At the end of the day, the Shen’ao Rail Bike is one of those experiences that won’t take up to much of  your time and leave you with a great memory.  Have you done the Shen’ao Rail Bike? What was your thought? Leave a comment and share your experience. Safe Travels!  Enjoying my photos and want to see more? Check out my Picfair Store. 📸   Plan Your Trip: 🗺️✈️ 🇹🇼    Booking Accommodations ⛺️ 🛖  For booking recommendations on the best deals and locations, check out Agoda or Booking.com Activities and Tours  🏖 🚁  Find fun activities and things to do through Tripadvisor. If you are looking for tours and day trips, Viator and Get Your Guide have a lot of great options.  In need of a car rental? 🚗 🚘  I recommend checking with Rental Cars.

Towering above the city skyline, Taipei 101 is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Taiwan and for many travelers, it’s a must visit. But with ticket prices, long lines, and unpredictable weather, one big question comes up: is visiting Taipei 101 worth it?  In my opinion, after visiting Taipei 101 three times, it’s an unforgettable experience. In this Taipei 101 guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know before visiting. Chances are, you will see Taipei 101 from the outside when visiting Taipei, but If you are trying to decide whether or not to buy tickets to the observation deck to Taipei 101 in your itinerary, this guide will help you with that decision.  And, to answer your question early on if Taipei 101 is worth it? My quick answer is absolutely!  ** This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of the links or widgets throughout the page, whether it be Viator, Booking.com, Agoda, or any other affiliate, I might receive commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, you can visit my affiliate link page here. Thanks for the support! Quick Facts About Taipei 101 ✅ Height: 508 meters or 1,667 ft, making Taipei 101, one of the world’s tallest buildings. ✅Floors: 101 floors above ground and 5 floors underground.  ✅ Completed: December 31, 2004 ✅ Former Record Holder: Taipei 101 was the tallest building in the world until the Burj Khalifa in Dubai was built in 2009. Taipei 101 currently ranks as the world’s eleventh tallest building. It is still the tallest building in Taiwan.  ✅ Location: Xinyi District, the modern heart of Taipei.  ✅ Observation Deck: Located on the 89th floor.  ✅ Elevator Speed: One of the fastest elevators in the world, reaching the top in about 37 seconds.  ✅ Design Inspiration: Modeled after a traditional bamboo stalk, symbolizing growth and prosperity. I learned that after watching Alex Honnold free climb Taipei 101.  ✅ Wind Damper: Taipei 101 has the largest mass damper in the world and it is open for the public to see.  Is Taipei 101 Worth Visiting? Short answer: Yes!  For first-time visitors to Taipei, Taipei is more than just a skyscraper, it’s a symbol of Taipei and one of the best locations to take in the full 360° view of the city.  It’s an engineering marvel that is a must visit for anyone in Taipei. I’ve been to Taipei several times and have visited the observation deck of Taipei 101, three times.  Standing at the base of Taipei 101, looking up, make you feel so small. It’s more of an experience when visiting Taipei 101. You get to ride on one of the world’s fastest elevators, see the massive damper, and see the beautiful city of Taipei from above.  Taipei 101 is absolutely worth visiting and I highly recommend it, especially if you are visiting Taipei for the first time.  Guide to Visiting Taipei 101 If you are visiting Taipei for your first time and have plans to visit Taipei 101, I created this guide to cover all the basics to your visit to include tips and additional information on Taipei 101.  How to get to Taipei 101 Getting to Taipei 101 is easy and straightforward, thanks to Taipei’s efficient public transport system.  The simplest option is the MRT:  Take the Tamsui-Xinyi Line, Red Line to Taipei 101/World Center Station (R03). You can also reach Taipei 101 by bus or taxi, but the MRT is the fastest and cheapest option.  Admission and Hours Below you can find the latest admission rates and hours for visiting Taipei 101. For the latest prices, hours, and getting to the 5th floor, I recommend visiting the official Taipei 101 website.  Admission General Ticket: NT$600This includes visiting Floors 88F and 89F.  Skyline460: NT$3,000This includes Floors 88F, 89F, and the Outdoor on the 101st Floor.    Hours Observatory: Monday – Sunday 10:00 – 21:00 (Last Admission is 20:15) Mall: Sunday – Thursday 11:00 – 21:30. Friday, Saturday, and Holidays 11:00 – 22:00 You can purchase tickets to Taipei 101 at the official ticket country on the 5th floor or in advance online.  Booking ahead not only saves time, but it guarantees you a time slot and sometimes offers small discounts or bundle deals.  👉 Ways to Save:  Book through platforms like Get Your Guide or Klook. Look for bundle deals that are offered with other Taipei attractions.  The Elevator Normally, I wouldn’t write about an elevator but the elevator inside Taipei 101 is unique and one of a kind!  The elevator was built by Toshiba and according to the Toshiba website, the elevator runs at speeds of 1,010meters a minute which is equivalent to 60.6 km/h.  The elevator starts at the 5th-floor where the ticket counter is and reaches the observation deck on the 89th-floor in just 37 seconds! I’ve been in elevators that take just as long to go just a couple of floors, it is truly impressive! The elevator can carry 24 passengers and is really smooth, you don’t get a sense of how fast it really is outside of your ears popping.  88th & 89th-Floor Observation Deck The main reason to visit Taipei 101 is to get a chance to take the elevator up to the  89th-floor observation deck. At the observation deck, you get a 360-degree view of Taipei. The large windows make it easy to take photos and enjoy the views. There are other fun features and facilities on the 89th-floor. There are magnification telescopes, photo services, and seasonal themes. On the 88th-floor of Taipei 101, there is a cafe called Simple Kaffa. Here you can relax with a coffee and enjoy the views.  Of course, on the 88th floor there is the famous wind-damper that is one of the top highlights of visiting Taipei 101.  Tuned Mass Damper One of the most fascinating things inside Taipei 101 is the massive tuned or wind damper. This 660-ton golden sphere suspends between the upper floors. It does look futuristic and actually serves a critical and important purpose.  The damper is designed to help stabilize the skyscraper during weather events like strong winds and earthquakes, both very common in Taiwan.  As the building itself sways, the damper moves in the opposite direction to counteract the motion which reduces vibrations and sway, making the building safe.  The damper is fully visible to the public which is unique. You can walk around the damper. There is a cool video in the room that shows the damper at work during a strong earthquake that happened a few years ago.  Mall & Food Court At the base of Taipei 101, you’ll find a massive multi-level mall. The mall is free to enter and perfect for if you are looking for things to do in Taipei on a rainy day.  I’ve been to the mall and food court several times although not necessarily to shop, but to catch a break from sightseeing.  The mall here leans more toward luxury shopping, you can find all the expensive and big name brands here. Again, I am not a shopper, but I enjoy the cleanliness and design of the mall. The highlight for me is the food court. Here you can find a huge variety of both Taiwanese and international options at a reasonable price. It’s convenient with great options, perfect before making your way up to the observation deck.  Best Photo Spots of Taipei 101 If you are looking to capture photos of Taipei 101 from afar, here are a few of my favorite photography spots.  Street-level in Xinyi District: If you simply walk around the Xinyi District, you’ll see glimpses of Taipei 101 almost everywhere. Zhongshan Park: At Zhongshan Park in Taipei, you can get great close up shots of Taipei 101. If you walk around the park, you can capture the refection on the skyscraper in the ponds, or get the Taiwan flag in the photo. Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan): Perhaps my favorite location and one of the most popular viewpoints of the skyline is what we know it as Elephant Mountain. There are many viewing platforms to get that iconic shot of Taipei 101. Conclusion Is Taipei 101 worth it? The simple answer is yes! Especially if you are a first time visitor to Taipei. The views, engineering behind the skyscraper, and overall experience make visiting Taipei 101 a must visit attraction while in Taipei.  It’s one thing to see Taipei 101 in person from the outside, but getting the full experience from riding the elevator to seeing the giant damper, it’s a one of a kind attraction.  I’ve been to other scrapers around the world, like the Petronas Towers in Malaysia or Tokyo’s Skytree, and Taipei 101 remains one of my favorite buildings in the world.  Have you been to Taipei 101? If so, how was your experience? Do you know of any other locations or have recommendations for photo spots around Taipei? Let us know in the comments. Safe Travels!  Enjoying my photos and want to see more? Check out my Picfair Store. 📸   Plan Your Trip: 🗺️✈️ 🇹🇼    Booking Accommodations ⛺️ 🛖  For booking recommendations on the best deals and locations, check out Agoda or Booking.com Activities and Tours  🏖 🚁  Find fun activities and things to do through Tripadvisor. If you are looking for tours and day trips, Viator and Get Your Guide have a lot of great options.  In need of a car rental? 🚗 🚘  I recommend checking with Rental Cars.