As we disembarked in the bustling northern port city of Keelung, Taiwan, I couldn’t help but notice how the harbor resembled a long, narrow river, a geographical quirk that offers an up-close-and-personal view of the city’s unique charm. Unlike its larger cousin, Kaohsiung, Keelung’s harbor is cozily nestled among mountains, offering a stunning backdrop of traditional buildings and distant temples. It’s a city that seems to balance the delicate line between modernity and tradition, much like a cat walking on a thin fence, unsure whether to jump into the yard of technological advancements or stay in the comfort of historical reverence.
Walking through Keelung, it’s impossible not to notice the omnipresent cargo ships, a reminder of the city’s thriving export activities. The sight of Taiwanese Naval and Coast Guard ships stationed in the waters is as reassuring as finding out your blind date is actually attractive in person. It’s clear you’re in a land of contrasts, where the past and present not only coexist but thrive together.
Before diving into Keelung’s infamous night market cuisine, our journey led us to the spiritual serenity of temples and tea ceremonies. A 20-minute bus ride and a gondola trip later, we found ourselves at the Chih Nan Temple, a place so peaceful it could make a caffeinated squirrel sit still. The path to the temple, adorned with red and gold ornaments hanging from wishing trees, had me considering turning my own backyard into a spiritual retreat (minus the squirrels).
The Chih Nan Temple, standing proudly at the mountain’s peak, is a marvel of architectural beauty and spiritual depth. With its intricate designs and gold lacquer accents shining in the sunlight, it felt like stepping into a historical drama minus the heavy costumes and melodramatic plot twists. The ambiance inside, filled with chants, incense, and a harmonious blend of tourists and locals, was a poignant reminder of the universal search for meaning, much like my own quest to find a decent cup of coffee in the morning.
Following this tranquil experience, we ventured to a traditional Taiwanese tea house located perilously on a mountain road so narrow it made dieting seem like a wide path. The tea ceremony was an enlightening experience. It taught us the art of tea preparation, which felt part spiritual, part functional, and entirely necessary, much like learning to parallel park.
But let’s not forget the highlight of any trip to Taiwan—the night market. The Miaokou Night Market in Keelung is a culinary utopia, offering a smorgasbord of delights that could easily turn a simple meal into a gustatory marathon. As we ventured through the crowded alleys, tasting everything from Taiwanese tempura to one-bite sausages, it was a reminder of the joy of discovering new tastes, akin to finding an extra fry at the bottom of your take-out bag. My daughter was in food heaven, going from one stand to another and trying things we clearly had no idea of what they were, mostly with good experiences. However, not knowing what would be found around the corner, we dare not fill up.
Having saved room for more, we ended the night at a hot pot restaurant in a newly renovated section of the harbor and that was the cherry on top. The language barrier was real, but laughter and gestures turned into the universal language of food, creating an unforgettable dining experience. It was a vibrant, bustling atmosphere that captured the essence of Keelung—a city that dances gracefully between the raindrops, embracing both its rich history and its vibrant present.
Leaving Keelung, I couldn’t shake off the profound impact of its landscapes, its people, and its culture. It’s a place of stark contrasts and surprising harmony, where every corner tells a story, and every meal is an adventure. Keelung, with its blend of traditional charm and spirit, is not just a destination; it’s a vivid reminder of life’s exquisite balance, much like successfully cooking a hot pot without turning it into a culinary disaster.
Post Note
Two days later, as news of an earthquake reached us, my thoughts immediately turned back to the resilient people of Keelung. In the face of adversity, the spirit of Keelung, much like the wishes hanging on the trees of Chih Nan Temple, remains unbroken, a testament to the enduring strength and unity of its people. My journey through Keelung was not just a travel adventure; it was a profound exploration of the human spirit, served with a side of laughter, a dash of awe, and a heaping spoonful of unforgettable memories. Our heart goes out to the people and communities affected by this tragic event. There are many dragons here, and they come in all sizes with various intentions.
