Lover's Tower, which is about a ten hike through the woods from Lover's Lake. It is one of the best spots to enjoy the scenery on Taiwan's Northern Coast. It is definitely a must-visit on your next trip to Keelung. 

This blog is about the Lover's Tower in Keelung. For more information about Lover's Tower at Tamsui Fisherman's Wharf, click here. 
​
​Background:
The name "Lovers Lake" comes from the fact that there are actually two lakes, one larger and one smaller, so they are like a couple in love.
The sandstone that forms the area was created between 10 and 20 million years ago and was pushed out of the sea along with northern Taiwan thousands of years ago. 
In the past, the area was run by a private company, which went out of business. Recently the Keelung City government has taken over control and has installed a trail that circles the lake.
There is also a suspension bridge, windmill, and stone tower overlooking the lake.
Nearby you can hike to Dawulun Fort or Eagle Rock which provides great views of the north coast.
Currently, the lake is popular with hikers and Instagrammers, as well as wedding photographers. On the weekends it can get quite busy and parking can be hard to find.

Hours:
24/7
​
Price:
Free

Tours:
​You can book a tour to Lover's Tower on KKday here. 

Activities:
Don't forget that there are many activities available along Taiwan's Northern Coast such as Yachting, Fishing, Surfing, SUP / Paddle Boarding, Diving, Snorkeling Kayaking, Canoeing, Water Biking,  River Tracing / Canyoneering, Glamping, Motorcycling, Motorbike Tour, Shen'ao Rail Bike, Night Fishing, Instagram Tour, Metaverse VR experience, Seaside Picnic, and more on Tripadvisor here, Klook here, or KKday here. 

Hotels in Keelung:
We recommend Just Live Inn-Keelung and Yung Feng Hotel, which are two great quality hotels for a reasonable price in Keelung's City Center.
You can book Just Live Inn-Keelung on Booking.com here, Agoda here, Klook here, Hotels.com here, Trip.com here, or Kayak here. 
You can book Yung Feng Hotel on Booking.com here, Agoda here, Hotels.com here, Trip.com here, Klook here, or Kayak here,

How to get there:
By car/scooter: Take Provincial highway northwest out of Keelung, and take a right on Jijin First Road toward Keelung Chang Kung Hospital. The Lover's Lake parking lot is at the top of the hill before the road turns into one lane. There is limited parking, and you may have to park further away. The trail is not wheelchair or stroller friendly.
However, there is always plenty of scooter parking. 
If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or  KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here.  
Looking for scooter rental in northern Taiwan? You can search on Klook here or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. 
By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan's many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. You can also book a cycling tour on TripAdvisor here. 
For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here. 
By Bus: Unfortunately, there are no buses that directly get there, so you will have to walk from Provincial Highway 2, or take a taxi. You can purchase a discount easy card to use on the MRT and buses from Klook here or KKday here. ​You can also book an MRT travel pass on Klook here. 

Map:
Please see below:

Wanli Beach (aka Feitsuiwan, Emerald Bay, or Green Bay) is a popular beach along the northern Coast. Paragliding is the most popular activity at this beach but people also swim and surf here too. Nearby you can also check out the UFO house village. It is definitely worth a stop on your next trip to Taiwan's Northern Coast. 

Background:
At the time during martial law, Wanli Beach (Feitsui Bay) was one of the few places where American servicemen could enjoy a beach vacation, as most beaches were closed off at the time. The UFO house village was created in the 1970s by a Taiwan construction company. These UFO houses had these servicemen in mind. However, a slowing economy and the severing of official diplomatic ties with the USA prevented the area from taking off, and the UFO resort town fell into decay.
For a more complete historical background on this area, check out this blog by Josh Ellis. 

Common Courtesy When Visiting:

• Some of the houses are not abandoned and still have people living in them. Do not walk near these houses, try to walk in, or invade these people's privacy in any other way.
• Do not disturb the houses and items at the scene. Leave everything the way you found it. The most important rule of urban exploration is that you take only pictures and leave nothing but footsteps. 

Hours:
24/7

Price:
Free

Activities:
You can book a SUP / Paddle Board experience at Feitsui Bay on KKday here. 

Tours:
You can book a tour to Taiwan's North Coast on TripAdvisor here, Klook here, or KKday here.
​You can book a Private Laomei Green Reef Day Tour from Taipei on TripAdvisor here or KKday here. 

Hotels on Taiwan's Northern Coast:
We recommend Fullon Hotel which has locations in Tamsui and Fulong near the beach (book on Booking.com here, Agoda here, or Kayak here). 
We have also stayed at and recommend Hai Xia Your Home which is right in front of Fulong Beach (book on Booking.com here, Agoda here, or Kayak here). 
Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan.
Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here.

How to get there:
​By Bus: There are many buses that pass the area. You'll want to get off at Green Bay (翡翠灣). You can purchase a discount easy card to use on the MRT and buses from Klook here or KKday here. ​You can also book an MRT travel pass on Klook here. 
By Car/Scooter: Take Provincial Highway 2 west out of Keelung, and keep going until you reach the Howard Green Bay Resort. If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or  KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here.  
Looking for scooter rental in northern Taiwan? You can search on Klook here or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. 
By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan's many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. You can also book a cycling tour on TripAdvisor here. 
For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here. ​

Map:

The Luce Memorial Chapel in Tunghai University, Taichung has a unique shape that has made it the icon of Taichung City. It is the central landmark of Tunghai University, completed in 1962 in honor of Rev. Henry Luce. Now it is one of Taichung City's most popular tourist attractions. 

Background:
The Luce Memorial Chapel was built in 1962 at Tunghai University (THU), in honor of Rev. Henry W. Luce. Tunghai University was founded with the ideals of Christianity and holistic education. Not long after the university's founding in 1955, the United Board for Christian Higher Education in Asia decided that because the university was so far away from central Taichung Dadu Mountain, they needed a church to make it more convenient for students and faculty to worship. The chapel does not belong to a particular denomination but is considered a protestant church. 
The Chapel is dedicated to Reverend Henry W. Luce, who was a Presbyterian missionary in China from roughly 1897-1935, and father of Henry Luce, an American magazine magnate who founded Time, Life, Fortune, and Sports Illustrated. Mr. Luce was born in China while is father was a missionary, and later moved to the United States as a young boy. He played a role in creating a good public image of Chiang Kai-shek and Song Mei-ling helping mold American foreign policy toward Taiwan. He helped to sponsor the chapel's construction in honor of his father. 
The chapel is built on a hexagonal base and has a unique curved reinforced concrete roof, known as a conid structure, and is 19.2 meters tall. The building is also said to be influenced by the Yale University Art Gallery. Originally the building was planned to be made from wood but concrete was later chosen as more durable for Taiwan's environment. The architects were I.M. Pei and Chi-kuan Chen. I.M. Pei designed the glass pyramid at the Louvre in Paris. 
In 2023, the chapel underwent renovations which were expected to be completed on November 2nd, 2023. ​
The chapel is a popular tourist stop, especially on weekends. ​

​Hours:
Around 4 PM until 2 AM, every day.
​
Tours:
You can book a tour of Luce Chapel on KKday here. 

There are many tours of Taichung available on KKday here or Klook here, such as an Instagram Day Tour, Historic Downtown and Sun Cake DIY Experience, Taichung Railway Station Walking Tour, Local Market Biking Tour, Aboriginal Food Tour, and much more on KKday here or Klook here. 

Hotels in Taichung:
Most of the accommodation you will find is near the city center.  If you will only visit downtown, you can consider a day trip from Taipei.
We have stayed at and recommend the Norway Forest Travel Hotel, a convenient hotel right in front of Taichung Station (you can book on Booking.com here, Agoda here, or compare prices on Kayak here), and Sin Fu Business Hotel which is also a great value for the money and great quality in downtown Taichung (you can book on Agoda here or compare prices on Kayak here). 
Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan.
Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here.

How to get there:
By Car/ Scooter: From Central Taichung. take Taiwan Avenue (Provincial Highway 12) East until you get up the hill to the entrance of Tunghai University. There is limited scooter parking on the side of the road and some paid car parking nearby. 
Looking for scooter rental in Taichung? Check out Klook here or KKday here to search for options.
If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. ​You can also check out our car rental guide here.  
By Bus: From Taichung station, you can take bus 324 to Tunghai University. You can also book a Taichung sightseeing bus on KKday here. 
By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan's many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. You can also book a Market Biking Tour in Taichung on Klook here.  ​
For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here. 

Map: Please see below:

Lehua Night Market in Yonghe District of New Taipei City is busy and vibrant. It may be the most crowded night market in Taipei, serving residents of both Zhonghe and Yonghe. It also has some of the cheapest prices. Popular foods here include rice cakes, shrimp soup, oyster omelets, and shaved ice. It is definitely worth a stop if you are in the area.

Background:
Lehua Night Market had its beginnings in 1970, after a few stalls had started in front of the Lehua Theater, which is now the Cashbox Party World KTV (錢櫃KTV). In the early days of the 1980s, the night market only stretched from Yongping Road to Baofu Road in an L shape. In 1998, the orange line of the Taipei MRT opened, with Dingxi Station very close to the night market, and from then on the night market continued to expand to its current size. The night market closed for a short time in 2021 during the pandemic.
Delicacies here include rice cakes, shrimp soup, oyster omelet, and shaved ice. Besides food, there are also many clothing and accessory shops here. 
Currently, the night market is the most crowded and popular shopping area in the Zhonghe / Yonghe area and is especially crowded on weekends. ​

​Hours:
Every day from 4 PM to 12 PM.

Price:
Free

Tours:
You can book a Michelin food tour of Night Markets in Taipei and nearby locations on Klook here.

Hotels in Taipei:
We have stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here, Agoda here, or Kayak here). 
We also recommend Fullon Hotel which has locations in Tamsui and Fulong near the beach (book on Booking.com here, Agoda here, or Kayak here). 
Budget Hotels: We have stayed at and also recommend Fu Chang Hotel in Ximending, which is within walking distance of Ximending shopping district (book on Booking.com here, Agoda here, or Kayak here). We have also stayed at and recommend Hai Xia Your Home which is right in front of Fulong Beach (book on Booking.com here, Agoda here, or Kayak here). 
Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan.
Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here.

How to get there:
By MRT: The night market is near Dingxi or Yongan Market MRT stations on the orange line. You can book an MRT travel pass on Klook here.
By Scooter: From central Taipei, take Chongqing South Road south until you reach the bridge over to Yonghe, then keep going straight until you reach Daxin Road. The night market is on your right. There is limited parking on the side of the road. Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? You can search on Klook here or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. 
By Car: From central Taipei, take Chongqing South Road south until you reach the bridge over to Yonghe, then keep going straight until you reach Daxin Road. The night market is on your right. There are some paid parking garages around the night market. If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or  KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here.  
By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan's many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. You can also book a Sunset Riverside Bike Ride and Historical Tour, 4 Hour Cycling in Taipei, Ultimate 8-Hour Cycling City Tour, or Taipei City Bike Tour with Night Market Experience on TripAdvisor here. 
For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here. 

Map: 
​Please see below:

The immigration application process can often feel like a daunting journey, fraught with complex procedures, strict requirements, and a labyrinth of legal jargon. However, with the right guidance and a clear understanding of the steps involved, navigating this intricate voyage becomes not only achievable but also more manageable. This document aims to guide you through the immigration application process, providing valuable insights into each stage, from initial preparation to the final submission of your case. We will walk you through the necessary paperwork, highlight crucial deadlines, and offer strategic advice to enhance your chances of success. Our purpose is to demystify the process, empowering you to tackle your immigration application with confidence and assurance.

​Study and Comprehend Immigration Laws and Visa Categories 

These two steps provide the foundation for your immigration journey. Research and learn about the immigration policies, requirements, and eligibility criteria. You can find this information on government websites, official portals of embassies or consulates of your desired country, or by consulting with an immigration lawyer. Whether you need Singapore's top immigration consultants or expert advice for Australian immigration, ensure that you gather all the necessary information before making any decisions. Once you have a solid understanding of the laws, explore different visa categories and select the one that best suits your needs.
 
Gather and Validate Required Documents 

Acquire all the necessary documents, such as passports, educational certificates, and work experience letters, ensuring they are up-to-date and valid for the application. Some documents may require additional steps, such as notarization or translation, so be sure to plan accordingly and give yourself enough time to complete these tasks. Keep all your documents organized and make copies for backup purposes.
 
Complete the Application Form and Pay the Associated Fees 

Carefully fill out the application form, ensuring accuracy to avoid potential delays or rejections. After filling out the form, pay the necessary application fees promptly. Keep in mind that fees may vary depending on the visa category and country of application. Furthermore, some countries may require additional fees for specific services, such as biometric data collection. Most application fees are non-refundable, so be sure to double-check all information before submitting the payment.
 
Attend Mandatory Appointments 
​
Attend any required interviews or medical examinations as instructed by the immigration authorities. These appointments are crucial in moving your application forward. Failure to attend may result in delays or even rejection of your case. Most countries also require biometric data collection as part of the application process, so be sure to schedule and attend these appointments. In some cases, interviews and examinations may be waived for certain visa categories.

Wait for the Decision and Respond to Any Requests for Further Information 
​
After submission, wait patiently for the decision. If additional information is requested, respond promptly and accurately to facilitate the decision-making process. Be sure to monitor your email or other communication channels for updates and respond promptly to any requests. For a smoother process, keep all your documents and records organized and easily accessible. Most importantly, remain patient and positive throughout the process.
 
 
In conclusion, navigating the immigration application process successfully requires thorough research, preparation, and attention to detail. By following these steps and seeking professional guidance when needed, you can increase your chances of a successful outcome. Remember to stay organized and keep track of all deadlines and requirements to ensure a smooth journey toward your desired destination.

The Yingge Ceramics Museum (official the New Taipei City Yingge Ceramics Museum 新北市立鶯歌陶瓷博物館) is a museum, DIY center, and art gallery for ceramics in Yingge District of New Taipei City. Here you can learn about the history of brick and pottery making in Taiwan, make your own pottery, as well as enjoy amazing works of art from local artists. 

Background:
The history of ceramic making in Yingge dates back nearly 200 years with the first potter, Wu An, who migrated from Guangzhou, and brick maker Chen Kun and the industry grew from there. Today Yingge is still the biggest ceramic-producing area in Taiwan, with over 800 ceramic businesses there. 
Plans for the Yingge Ceramics Museum began in 1988, and the building was finally completed in the year 2000, made mostly of raw concrete and glass. 
Currently, the museum holds over 3000 artifacts, including many Taiwanese traditional building materials and pottery. 

Hours:
General Admittance: 9:30 AM - 5 PM every day
Children's pottery DIY: Thursday - Saturday 9:40-10:40; 11:00-12:00; 14:00-15:00; 15:30-16:30 (200 NT per child; *only for children 4-10 years old)
Closed for Chinese New Year, as well as the first Monday of each month. 

Price:
Entrance ticket: 80 NT per person
Children's pottery DIY: 200 NT per child (see above)

Website:
https://en.ceramics.ntpc.gov.tw/ 
​
Tours:
​You can book a day tour to Yingge Old Street on Klook here or KKday here. 

DIY Activities:
You can also book a Pottery and Ceramic DIY class at Yingge Old Street on KKday here or a Jewelry DIY class on KKday here. You may have to book a few days in advance. 

Hotels in Taipei:
We have stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here, Agoda here, or Kayak here). 
We have stayed at and also recommend Fu Chang Hotel in Ximending, which is within walking distance of Ximending shopping district (book on Booking.com here, Agoda here, or Kayak here).
Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan.
Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here.

How to get there:
By Scooter: From central Taipei. provincial highway 3 southwest from Tucheng to Sanxia. Then turn right on the 110 to Yingge. The old street is right in the middle of town. You can park for free on the side of the road nearby.
Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? You can search on Klook here or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. 
By Car: You can take National Highway 3 and get off at the Sanxia exit and keep going right (north) to Yingge. There is paid parking near the museum. 
If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or  KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here.  
By Train: Taking a train to Yingge is the most convenient way to get here. The old street and museum are within walking distance of Yingge TRA Station. Book tickets via the normal train (TRA)  on Klook here.
By Bus: There are a number of buses that pass by the old street coming from Taipei, such as bus 910. You can also book tickets to travel to Yingge via inter-city bus on Klook here. You can also book a Taipei Sightseeing: Hop On, Hop Off Open Top Bus on TripAdvisor here. ​
By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan's many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. You can also book a Sunset Riverside Bike Ride and Historical Tour, 4 Hour Cycling in Taipei, Ultimate 8-Hour Cycling City Tour, or Taipei City Bike Tour with Night Market Experience on TripAdvisor here. 
For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here. 

Map:
Please see below:

Yingge Old Street (also known as Yingge Ceramics Old Street) is the ceramics and pottery capital of Taiwan. Most of the shops here focus on some kind of ceramics or pottery of some kind. There are also many wood carvings and other sculptures available, as well as DIY pottery making. In addition, you can check out the nearby New Taipei City Ceramics Museum and New Taipei City Art Museum. 

​Background:
The name Yingge literally means "eagle's song."
​The history of ceramic making in Yingge dates back nearly 200 years ago with the first potter, Wu An, who migrated from Guangzhou, and brick maker Chen Kun and the industry grew from there. In the olden days, the old street was surrounded by smoke stacks from ceramic ovens. This continued until the 1990s, when the old street started to focus more on artwork instead of industrial products. The old street was also renovated to be more tourist friendly. Today Yingge is still the biggest ceramic producing area in Taiwan, with over800 ceramic businesses there. 
Plans for the Yingge Ceramics Museum began in 1988, and the building was finally completed in the year 2000, made mostly of raw concrete and glass. 
Currently the museum holds over 3000 artifacts, including many Taiwanese traditional building materials and pottery. 
Popular products sold at the old street include household products, artistic ceramic products, china, ovens, utensils, pots, and other ornaments. 

Hours:
10 AM - 7 PM every day

Price:
Free
​
Tours:
​You can book a day tour to Yingge Old Street on Klook here or KKday here. 

DIY Activities:
You can also book a Pottery and Ceramic DIY class at Yingge Old Street on KKday here or a Jewelry DIY class on KKday here. You may have to book a few days in advance. 

Hotels in Taipei:
We have stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here, Agoda here, or Kayak here). 
We have stayed at and also recommend Fu Chang Hotel in Ximending, which is within walking distance of Ximending shopping district (book on Booking.com here, Agoda here, or Kayak here).
Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan.
Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here.

How to get there:
By Scooter: From central Taipei. provincial highway 3 southwest from Tucheng to Sanxia. Then turn right on the 110 to Yingge. The old street is right in the middle of town. You can park for free on the side of the road nearby.
Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? You can search on Klook here or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. 
By Car: You can take National Highway 3 and get off at the Sanxia exit and keep going right (north) to Yingge. There is paid parking near the old street. 
If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or  KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here.  
By Train: Taking a train to Yingge is the most convenient way to get here. The old street and museum are within walking distance of Yingge TRA Station. Book tickets via the normal train (TRA)  on Klook here.
By Bus: There are a number of buses that pass by the old street coming from Taipei, such as bus 910. You can also book tickets to travel to Yingge via inter-city bus on Klook here. You can also book a Taipei Sightseeing: Hop On, Hop Off Open Top Bus on TripAdvisor here. ​
By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan's many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. 
For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here. 

Map:
Please see below:

Yansan Night Market (aka Yuan Sen Night Market, or Daqiaotou Night Market, or Yanping Tourist Night Market) is a small night market in Datong District of Taipei. The night market is not fancy, not touristy, and not very busy. It caters local snacks to local people. It also has three shops that were mentioned in the Michelin guide to Taiwan.

Background:
Yansan Night Market was originally called Daqiaotou Night Market (literally Big Bridge Head Night Market), because it sits at the head of the Taipei Bridge, on either side of Yanping North Road. Many of the stalls on this road have been operating for nearly 40 years. 
The night market is very close to Dadaocheng, which had settlements here dating back to the Dutch rule in the 1600s.
The first Chinese settlers came to the area in the mid-1800's during the Qing Dynasty. They created a public area for drying rice and grain, called Dadaocheng (大稻埕) from which the place got its name, which also became the central market in the area.
The earliest trading shops were built in 1851, mainly selling rice, sugar, camphor, and tea. Dihua Street (迪化街), or Center Street (中街) was created around this time, making it the oldest street in Taipei.
In 2019, the Michelin Guide honored YanSan night market by mentioning three of the eateries here: Taiwanese cabbage rice and pork rib soup, DaQiaoTou Tube Rice Pudding, and Shih Chia Big Rice Balls. 

​Hours:
Every day from 5 PM to 9 PM

Price:
Free

Tours:
You can book a Michelin food tour of Yansan Night Market and nearby locations on Klook here.

Hotels in Taipei:
We have stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here, Agoda here, or Kayak here). 
We also recommend Fullon Hotel which has locations in Tamsui and Fulong near the beach (book on Booking.com here, Agoda here, or Kayak here). 
Budget Hotels: We have stayed at and also recommend Fu Chang Hotel in Ximending, which is within walking distance of Ximending shopping district (book on Booking.com here, Agoda here, or Kayak here). We have also stayed at and recommend Hai Xia Your Home which is right in front of Fulong Beach (book on Booking.com here, Agoda here, or Kayak here). 
Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan.
Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here.

How to get there:
By MRT: The night market is right in front of Daqiaotou MRT station on the orange line. You can also book an MRT travel pass on Klook here.
By Scooter: Take Minquan West Road west until you reach the Taipei Bridge, then turn right onto Yanping North Road. There is limited parking on the side of the road. Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? You can search on Klook here or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. 
By Car: Take Minquan West Road west until you reach the Taipei Bridge, then turn right onto Yanping North Road. There are some paid parking garages around the night market. If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or  KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here.  
By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan's many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. You can also book a Sunset Riverside Bike Ride and Historical Tour, 4 Hour Cycling in Taipei, Ultimate 8-Hour Cycling City Tour, or Taipei City Bike Tour with Night Market Experience on TripAdvisor here. 
For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here. 

Map:
Please see below:

Sanxia Old Street is one of the best-preserved Old Streets in Taiwan, with two rows of buildings that have recently been renovated in their original Japanese-era baroque-style architecture. Here you can also enjoy local delicacies Ox Horn Bread and other Taiwanese staples such as sausages, ice cream, stinky tofu, and more.

Background:
The name Sanxia (三峽, literally meaning "three valleys") comes because the area is surrounded on three sides by mountains.
In the mid-1700s, the first Chinese families began to settle in what is now Sanxia.  In 1769 Zushi Temple (祖師廟) was established, which is the main temple on the old street. In 1785, the Earth God Temple / Sanxia Fu An Temple (土地公 /三峽福安宮) was established. 
During the Qing Dynasty, the town of Shenkeng was an important trading area for camphor, tea, and cloth, Transportation was made easy thanks to the Sanxia River. 
During the Japanese invasion of Taiwan in 1895, local residents retaliated against the Japanese army, inflicting heavy casualties. In return, the Japanese burned Sanxia Old Street.
Under Japanese rule, the area underwent improvements, and houses were built in baroque-style architecture. 
With the establishment of the round island railway, Sanxia Old Street lost its importance as a trade and transportation hub. 
In 2004, the Taipei County Government allocated 3 Billion NTD to repair and restore the baroque-style architecture on Sanxia Old Street, and the renovations were completed in 2007. In 2009, further renovations were conducted to make the old street as it appears today. 
At 260 meters long, it is said to be Taiwan's longest preserved old street (I am not sure if this is true). 
Now the area is a popular tourist attraction and is very busy on weekends and holidays.

Delicacies:
Ox Horn Bread and other Taiwanese staples such as sausages, ice cream, stinky tofu, and more.
​
Hours:
Every Day from about 10 AM to 7:30 PM, with more shops opening later in the day.

Price:
Free

When to go:
If you go during weekends or holidays, it can get really crowded but that is also the time when most all of the shops and stalls are open. If you want to avoid the crowds you can try going early in the afternoon when it is not as busy, 

Tours:
​You can book a day tour to Sanxia on TripAdvisor here or KKday here.
You can also book a river tracing experience in Sanxia on Klook here. 
There are also free tours in Chinese offered by the local municipal office on Saturdays and Sundays. 

Hotels in Taipei:
We have stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here, Agoda here, or Kayak here). 
We have stayed at and also recommend Fu Chang Hotel in Ximending, which is within walking distance of Ximending shopping district (book on Booking.com here, Agoda here, or Kayak here).
Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan.
Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here.

How to get there:
By Scooter: From central Taipei. provincial highway 3 southwest from Tucheng to Sanxia. The old street is right in the middle of town. You can park for free on the side of the road nearby.
Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? You can search on Klook here or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. 
By Car: You can take National Highway 3 and get off at the Sanxia exit. There is paid parking under the Sanxia Public Market. 
If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or  KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here.  
By Bus: There are a number of buses that pass by the old street coming from Taipei, such as bus 910. You can also book tickets to travel to Sanxia via inter-city bus on Klook here. You can also book a Taipei Sightseeing: Hop On, Hop Off Open Top Bus on TripAdvisor here. ​
By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan's many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. You can also book a Sunset Riverside Bike Ride and Historical Tour, 4 Hour Cycling in Taipei, Ultimate 8-Hour Cycling City Tour, or Taipei City Bike Tour with Night Market Experience on TripAdvisor here. 
For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here. 

Map:
Please see below:

Yehliu Ocean World is the largest aquarium in northern Taiwan and has one of the few outdoor sea life amphitheaters in Taiwan. The facility features an indoor aquarium and an outdoor show that is geared toward children. It is an unmissable stop on your next trip to Taiwan's north coast. ​

Background:
The sandstone that forms the Yehliu Formation was created between 10 and 20 million years ago and was pushed out of the sea along with northern Taiwan thousands of years ago. 
The Queen's head is formed by two layers of sandstone, one soft eroding layer on the bottom and a harder layer on top. This kind of sandstone formation can be seen around the world and is known as a hoodoo. The Queen's head was named after Queen Elizabeth I because it is thought to look like her. 
The head is eroding .2 to .5 CM per year and is expected to fall at any time!
The name "Yehliu" comes from the Spanish name for the area "Putno Diablos" which was then also used by the Dutch, and transliterated by the Chinese settlers in the area as "Yehliu" in Chinese. 

Yehliu Ocean World is the largest aquarium in northern Taiwan and has one of the few outdoor sea life amphitheaters in Taiwan. The facility features an indoor aquarium and an outdoor show that is geared toward children.  ​

Hours:
Yehliu Geopark: 8 AM to 5 PM in winter (tickets not sold after 4:30)
8 AM to 6 PM in summer (tickets not sold after 5:30)
Yehliu Ocean World: 9 AM to 5 PM

Price:
Yehliu Geopark: 120 NT per person.
​You can book discount tickets to Yehliu Geopark on Klook here and KKday here. 
Yehliu Ocean World: 450 NT per person.
​​You can book discount tickets to Yehliu Ocean World on Klook here and KKday here. 
You can also book tickets to the Yehliu Ocean World Parent-Child playground on Klook here. 
​
Tours:
You can book a tour to Yehliu on Klook here,  TripAdvisor here, or KKday here.

Activities along Taiwan's Northern Coast:
Don't forget that there are many activities available along Taiwan's Northern Coast such as Wakeboarding, Surfing, Speedboat Surfing, SUP / Paddle Boarding, Diving, Snorkeling Kayaking, Canoeing, Water Biking,  River Tracing / Canyoneering, ATVing, Horse Riding, Archery, Tree Climbing, Glamping, Motorcycling, Motorbike Tour, Dragon Boat Racing, Shen'ao Rail Bike, and more on Tripadvisor here, Klook here, or KKday here. 

Hotels on Taiwan's Northern Coast:
We recommend Fullon Hotel which has locations in Tamsui and Fulong near the beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). 
We have stayed at and recommend ​Gold Mountain Ranch, which is a horse ranch and glamping destination in Jinshan. ​You can book a night at Gold Mountain Ranch on Klook here.  You can also check out our full blog on the ranch here. 
We have also stayed at and recommend Hai Xia Your Home which is right in front of Fulong Beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). 
Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan.
Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here.

How to get there:
​By Bus: There are inter-city buses that leave hourly from Taipei Main Station and Taipei City Hall to Yehliu. You can purchase a discount easy card to use on the MRT and buses from Klook here or KKday here. ​You can also book an MRT travel pass on Klook here. 
By Car/Scooter: Take Provincial highway 2 west out of Keelung, and keep going until you reach Wanli. The turnoff to  Yehliu comes right after Wanli beach. If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or  KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here.  
Looking for scooter rental in northern Taiwan? You can search on Klook here or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. 
By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan's many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. You can also book a cycling tour on TripAdvisor here. 
For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here. ​

Map:
Please see below: