Keelung

Keelung might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of Taiwan, but this northern port city makes for a perfect day trip if you’re arriving by cruise. Nestled between rolling green mountains and rugged coastline, Keelung has been a key maritime hub for centuries. Historically, the port played a strategic role during both Qing and Japanese rule, and today it remains one of Taiwan’s busiest seaports.

On this visit, I joined a ship-organized excursion that packed a lot into one day. Our first stop was the Xiaoyoukeng Recreation Area, located in the Yangmingshan National Park. The area is known for its geothermal activity, and it doesn’t take long to spot the reason why. Billowing steam rose from vents in the hillsides and pools of bubbling mud hissed under the sun. It felt like stepping into the Earth’s exhale.

From there, we made our way to Yangmingshan Tien-Lai Resort & Spa. I didn’t snap any photos of the pools out of respect for the other guests, but trust me when I say the spa experience was serene. I did manage a few shots of the surrounding landscape, and the elegant fountain outside the main building was particularly photogenic with its fish sculptures and clear blue water.

The final stop of the day was Yehliu Geopark, one of the highlights of the northern coast. This place is like nature’s sculpture garden, with wind and sea-carved rock formations that defy logic. The most famous of these is the “Queen’s Head,” which draws a constant stream of photo-seekers. Wandering the park’s trails gave me great views of the ocean and cliffs. The textures and colors of the rocks here are something else entirely.

And just when I thought the day couldn’t surprise me again, I glanced out the window as we were leaving and saw a man driving a scooter with his golden retriever seated calmly on the footrest. It was such a sweet and unexpected moment that perfectly captured the laid-back charm of Taiwan.