Kagoshima Itinerary - A Travel Guide Blog

Kagoshima Itinerary: Ultimate Travel Guide Blog

by | posted in: Kyushu Japan | 0

Last updated on April 27th, 2024

Wondering what to do in Kagoshima? Check out this Kagoshima travel guide blog introduce some of the best things to do in the city and create your ultimate Kagoshima itinerary!

Known for the smoking volcano of Sakurajima in South Kyushu, Kagoshima (鹿児島) is one of the popular places to visit. This prefecture is incredibly active geologically and is home to the great volcanoes of Mt. Kirishima and Mt. Sakurajima. It is an ideal place to visit for those seeking adventure, relaxation, or learning about the volcano.

Kagoshima has plenty to offer. This charming city is undeniably the slowly moving island time. Take your time strolling along the rural and town areas, mesmerizing the active volcano in Mt. Sakurajima, exploring the Sengan-en Garden, soaking into the unique hot springs, and tasting the local cuisine. That’s so many things to do for your 1, 2, or even 3 days of Kagoshima itinerary.

In this Kagoshima Travel Guide blog, we’re sharing what to do in Kagoshima, how to get there, what to eat, and other helpful travel tips. Continue reading this Kagoshima itinerary to help you make the most of your time in this charming city.

How Many Days for Kagoshima

Kagoshima Travel Guide

Some travelers visit Kagoshima as a day trip from Fukuoka by using the Shinkansen. The one-way journey will take you about 1.5 hours. But if you’re exploring the area leisurely, we recommend that you spend 2 to 3 days.

Spend one day visiting the city’s major attractions like Sakurajima, and Sengan-en Garden. Next, spend another day visiting the Kirishima or the Ibusuki. The charming Kagoshima is worth more than a day trip.

Best time to visit Kagoshima

Kagoshima is in Southernmost Japan so the weather here is relatively mild year-round. It doesn’t experience extreme weather changes and is unlikely to snow even in winter.

If you’re looking for the absolute best time to go weather-wise, then visit Kagoshima from October to November. The temperature is at its most ideal and there are few rainy days.

How To Get to Kagoshima

Kagoshima is easy to reach by Shinkansen (bullet train) or JR Train. It is also served by highway buses and has an airport close by. 

Getting to Kagoshima by plane: Kagoshima Airport is the closest airport to Kagoshima city. The airport serves a handful of domestic destinations in addition to several international flights from Seoul, Shanghai, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. The easiest way to travel from Kagoshima Airport to the city is by taking the direct airport limousine bus into Kagoshima City.

How To Get to Kagoshima from Fukuoka

Getting to Kagoshima by rail: Thanks to excellent rail connections, it is easy to get to Kagoshima from many of Japan’s major cities, including Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, and Kumamoto. Most travelers will probably be arriving via Fukuoka Airport or through some other major city in Japan, then continuing to Kagoshima by train or by bus. The Kagoshima-chuo Station is the terminus of the Kyushu Shinkansen line making it quick and easy to reach.

All rail journeys are covered by the Japan Rail Pass and JR All Kyushu Rail Pass are covered for your journey from Fukuoka to Kagoshima. Travel smart as one return journey of a Shinkansen ride is already worth the price of the pass.

Take note that Kagoshima-Chuo Station (鹿児島中央駅) and Kagoshima Station (鹿児島駅) are not the same! Shinkansen riders should get to Kagoshima-Chuo Station station.

Getting to Kagoshima by bus: Highway buses are running between big cities and small towns in Kyushu. If you’re visiting multiple cities in Kyushu, consider getting the SunQ Pass. This valuable pass will give you unlimited bus rides on consecutive days.

Self-Driving in Kagoshima

Self-driving to Kagoshima: Kagoshima is a very good place for self-driving itineraries in Kyushu. Even though the rail and bus are well-connected to most of the attractions, you can plan your Kagoshima itinerary more flexibly by self-driving. You will have more freedom with your time and you can also stop at various scenic places along the trip.

Check for rental car price from RentalCar.com.

Getting Around in Kagoshima

Getting Around Kagoshima City

Although Kagoshima does not have a subway system, its excellent tram and bus services make navigating the city a breeze.

By Bus: Bus is one of the popular option for getting around in Kagoshima. There are efficient and take you on loops around the city. The buses run every half hour from 8:00 until 17:00. To save money, buy the day pass which costs ¥600 if you plan to take more than 4 rides., this allows you to explore the metropolis regardless of the distance. Another option is boarding a sightseeing bus.

Two types of buses are of most use to visitors to Kagoshima:

  • Machi Meguri Bus is ¥500 for a one-day pass
  • Kagoshima City View Bus is ¥600 for a one-day pass.

These two routes can be used to go in the direction of the seaward area and Shiroyama Observatory. Both buses will stop at major sightseeing spots in the city, including Tenmonkan, Shiroyama Observatory, and Sengan-en Garden.

The Kagoshima City View Bus is located at E-4 Station (East Exit Bus Stop).

Visit Kagoshima Using Tram

By Tram: The best way to see the sites of Kagoshima city is by riding the tram. The Kagoshima City Tram (鹿児島市電) is one of the few remaining streetcar lines in Japan. In addition to being a cool alternative to a bus on a hot day, the flat rate of ¥170 for riding and the frequency of trams make this an excellent way to get around Kagoshima City. Trams run from 6:00 morning until around 23:00 at night.

Most of the time, we are taking the red line when traveling around the Kagoshima’s major attraction.

  • Number 1 (Blue) Line – Taniyama, Korimoto, Kotsukyoku, Takamibaba, Tenmonkan, Kagoshima Station
  • Number 2 (Red) Line – Korimoto, Kagoshima Chuo Station, Takamibaba, Tenmonkan, Kagoshima Station

Kagoshima tram map: https://www.kotsu-city-kagoshima.jp/en/kagoshima-city-tram-routes/

Kagoshima Travel Tip: CUTE Pass

If you plan to visit Kagoshima and Sakurajima on the same day, consider getting the CUTE Pass (One day at ¥1,200 or 2-day at ¥1,800).

Kagoshima Travel Tips

Kagoshima CUTE Pass is a great value transport pass where you may enjoy unlimited rides in most of the public transportation in Kagoshima operated by the city council, like a street car (tram), transit bus, sightseeing buses (Kagoshima City View buses, Sakurajima Island View buses), and ferry service between Kagoshima Chuo and Sakurajima. You’ll receive discounts on the attractions and some shops in the area.

Kagoshima Tourist Information Center

The pass can be purchased at the Tourist Information Center in the Kagoshima-Chuo Station. Please note that Machi Meguri Bus is not included for CUTE pass.

Best Area to Stay in Kagoshima

Staying nearby Kagoshima-chuo, the main station in Kagoshima served with Shinkansen. This place is a good choice if you want to stay close to the transportation hub.

The Tenmonkan area is the best area to stay for first-time visitors to Kagoshima. It’ll put you close to the city’s top tourist attractions, restaurants, and shops, or if you want a travel experience of convenience. The accommodation is also cheaper compared to other areas.

Things to do for Kagoshima itinerary

Kagoshima Itinerary

Next, we will share some of the best things to do in the city in this section of the Kagoshima Travel Guide. It’s best to plan ahead and get the most out of your time there. Follow the Kagoshima itinerary to plan your trip!

Things to do for Kagoshima itinerary:

  • Get closer to the active volcano at Mt Sakurajima
  • Take an Aerial View of Kagoshima from the Shiroyama Observatory
  • Shopping at the Tenmonkan
  • Taste Local Cuisine
  • Explore the Kagoshima Sengan-en Garden
  • Side Trip to Kirishima / Ibusuki

Please note that Sakurajima is the major attraction in the Kagoshima and you might see it at different places at different angles. If you’re on limited time, you’ll need to decide which places to visit to best suit your interests.

Get closer to the active volcano at Mt Sakurajima

Kagoshima Itinerary - Visit Mt Sakurajima

If you’re visiting Kagoshima, consider allowing at least half a day to visit the Sakurajima.

Sakurajima (櫻島) is a magnificent sight and might be the number one reason to come to Kagoshima. It used to be an island until the active volcano erupted in 1914 and connected the island to the Osumi Peninsula. Still, it is one of the most active volcanoes on planet earth erupting on average 1 to 2 times each day in the last couple of decades.

Tour around Sakurajima

From Kagoshima, you can see this active volcano is ever present, around every corner of the city which is very photogenic. But of course, the best way to get closer to the island is to feel the power of nature.

We recommend starting your Kagoshima itinerary with a visit to Sakurajima in the morning. It is one of the major highlights Kagoshima has to offer and make sure to visit it on a clear day.

Kagoshima Itinerary - Visit Sakurajima

Take the ferry to Sakurajima Island and tour around the island to enjoy the impressive volcano erupting. You will have the opportunity to see nature in action with very little effort. There are multiple walking trails, an observatory to view the stunning sights, onsen to spend your day here.

Pro Tips: Get the CUTE Pass or Sakurajima Island View Bus one-day pass to see attractions in Sakurajima. We will share more details during our visit to Sakurajima.

Getting there: From Kagoshima Chuoeki-mae station, board the red line tram toward Kagoshimaeki-mae and get off at Suizokukan-guchi station. This is the closest station to board the ferry to Sakurajima.

Take an Aerial View of Kagoshima from the Shiroyama Observatory

Kagoshima Aerial View from Shiroyama Observatory

On a clear day, get to Mt Shiroyama and see an unobstructed view of Kagoshima from the Shiroyama Observatory. This place has the best scenic view of downtown Kagoshima, Kagoshima Bay, and Sakurajima from aerial.

Bring a snack or drink and enjoy the scenery from the park. It is a really nice spot for a break.

Night View from Shiroyama Observatory

From the mountain, the view towards the Sakurajima volcano is truly magnificent. It is particularly beautiful during the day as you can see the whole city together with the Sakurajima from above. The view is quite spectacular at night as well.

Getting there: From Kagoshima Chuo Station, board the Kagoshima City View bus and get off at Shiroyama. The journey takes about 30 minutes.

Taste Local Cuisine

Kagoshima Itinerary - Taste Local Cuisine

There are a variety of food options to try in Kagoshima and local cuisine is something you should definitely try in Kagoshima. This prefecture is not only blessed with the bountiful sea and nature but is also a treasure trove of delicious food that can only be found here.

There are many places to eat in Kagoshima to try local cuisine.

One of must-eat food to eat in Kagoshima is the Berkshire pork. The Berkshire pork is a Kagoshima specialty. The Berkshire pigs raised in Kagoshima are sweet and have a strong, juicy flavor. Because the heritage breed’s fat melts at a high temperature, it also has a refreshing taste without being sticky.

Try unique Kagoshima food like Kagoshima Ramen and Kagoshima Kurobuta Pork!

Shopping at the Tenmonkan

Kagoshima Travel Blog - Shopping at Tenmonkan

Tenmonkan is a lively shopping district that spans several blocks of the city. It has an old-style covered shopping street where you can find many boutique shops, restaurants, cafes, bars, and pubs.

Depending on how you plan your Kagoshima itinerary, you can save this place towards the end of your trip. There are plenty of shops selling souvenirs, clothes, and products.

Kagoshima Itinerary - Shopping at the Tenmonkan

Besides, Tenmonkan is also the best place to try some of Kagoshima’s local cuisine. There are many restaurants and eateries at this local street market where you can stop by for lunch, snack time, dinner, and even supper. At night, the area lights up with crowded bars and pubs where you can chill with a drink.

Explore the Kagoshima Sengan-en Garden

Built in 658, Sengan-en Garden (仙巖園) is a traditional Japanese Garden passed down by the Shimazu Clan who ruled Satsuma (now Kagoshima) during the Japanese Edo Period (1603-1867). It was once used as a villa for the Shimazu family and is open to public view for visit.

The 50,000 sq meters grounds are beautifully crafted with Japanese gardens with ponds, bridges, trees, plants, and a great walking area. The garden is very beautiful and it known as features an unobstructed view of Sakurajima and Kagoshima Bay. Many Japanese films even used the garden for filming. Absolutely stunning!

Senganen is located around 35 minutes by bus from Kagoshima-chuo Station. It is open daily from 9:00 to 17:00. Admission to Sengan-en Garden costs JP¥1,000. Entry to the garden museum is included, but some residence houses inside the garden require an extra fee. Allow a couple of hours minimum to wander this beautiful place.

There are also some shops selling souvenirs as well as some local snacks. You can also stop by the trendy Starbucks next to the gardens as well. This location, a remodeling of a building owned by the Shimazu family, is officially registered as a Tangible Cultural Property. You can even see Sakurajima from the cafe windows on clear days!

As we spend too much time in Sakurajima, we have to take out Senganen from our Kagoshima itinerary. If you have more time to spend in Kagoshima, consider visiting this beautiful cultural garden in the city.

Getting there: From Kagoshima Chuo Station, board the Kagoshima City View bus and get off at Sengan-en Mae. The journey takes about 50 minutes.

More time for the Kagoshima itinerary?

If you have extra days, there are also some options for side trips from Kagoshima where you’ll find the marvelous hot spring at Kirishima, Ibusuki area known for the sand bath, and Satsuma Penisula.

Enjoy the Hot Spring at Kirishima

Frpm Kagoshima to Kirishima

The neighborhood Kirishima is one of the popular places to couple with the Kagoshima itinerary. It is known for its beautiful natural scenery, including volcanic lakes and scenic hiking trails. Plus, there is an expansive area of Kirishima that is blessed and boasted with some fantastic natural hot springs. Many onsen accommodations are available for you to experience and enjoy the natural hot spring in Kirishima.

To get there, take the JR train from Kagoshima Station to Kirishima-Jingu Station. The journey takes about 50 – 60 minutes.

Read More: Kirishima Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

Experience Sand Bath at Ibusuki

Another popular place to pair the Kagoshima itinerary with a visit to Ibusuki. It is a popular place to experience the unique sand bath here. Your entire body will be buried in the sand that has been heated by an underground hot spring. It is said to have a detoxing effect and is good for health.

Unfortunately, we didn’t have time to visit the Ibusuki. So, we’re focusing on Kagoshima and Kirishima with a snapshot of the top highlights.

More Kagoshima Travel Tips

Can we visit Kagoshima from Fukuoka on a day trip?
A day trip to Kagoshima from Fukuoka is doable. But we recommend spending at least 2 to 3 days to visit all the major attractions and nearby neighborhoods like Kirishima and Ibusuki. Kagoshima is worth more than a day trip!

Is Kagoshima worth a visit?
While Kagoshima is not on a typical itinerary for Japan, the city does have some charm with fewer tourists and sightseeing activities. We truly enjoyed our visit to Kagoshima and highly recommend it.

Why is Kagoshima so popular?
Kagoshima is incredibly active geologically and is home to the great volcanoes of Mt. Sakurajima and the hot spring paradise Kirishima. An ideal place to visit for those seeking adventure, relaxation, or learning about the volcano.

Overview: A Visit To Kagoshima

All in all, we hope this Kagoshima Travel Guide blog is able to inspire you to include this place on your Kagoshima itinerary. We truly enjoyed our visit and highly recommended it. It is worth the long journey there to see all the breathtaking natural attractions. If you have the chance to stop by Kagoshima, go for it!

Traveling to Kyushu and looking for more travel inspiration? Check out other Kyushu blog articles on my site or if you have any questions don’t hesitate to drop us an email if you need any information and help on the Kagoshima travel guide.

Traveling to Kagoshima? Here is our travel strories to Kagoshima Prefecture:

Visiting Kyushu and looking for some inspiration for what to do in Kyushu then be sure to read our Kyushu travel blog here:

Where To Stay in Taipei

Where To Stay in Taipei – Our Favourite Areas & Hotels

by | posted in: Taiwan | 0

Last updated on April 27th, 2024

If you’re looking for where to stay in Taipei while visiting this beautiful Taiwanese city, we’ve got you covered! We will provide you with the best places or hotels to sleep in Taipei.

Taipei is a perfect travel destination for spending a few days exploring all the delicious foods and wonderful sights. There are so many different areas and districts in the city, that choosing the best one for you will definitely be a big challenge.

Fortunately, Taipei is a fairly compact city, and the public transportation system is excellent. So no matter where you decide to stay you should be able to get around the rest of the city fairly easily. The MRT is so convenient that it almost doesn’t matter where you stay.

There were also many nice hostels in Taipei, guesthouses or minshu. This MUST-read accommodation guide will cover off where to stay in Taipei, Taiwan.

Editor Tip: Where to Stay in Taipei

Best Place to stay in Taipei

There are 12 Taipei districts, namely Songshan, Xinyi, Daan, Zhongshan, Zhongzheng, Datong, Wanhua, Wenshan, Nangang, Neihu, Shilin, and Beitou. Among all, we have selected the 6 best districts to stay in Taipei that are relevant and interesting for travelers, especially for those visiting the city for the first time.

Here are the popular places where to stay in Taipei:

  • Ximending (WanHua): Perfect place to stay in Taipei for first-time visitors. Packed with a night market, shopping area, and food.
  • ZhongZhen District: The city’s central and close to Taipei Main Station. Best place to stay in Taipei if your itinerary has a lot of day trip options.
  • Xinyi District: A modern financial district with upscale shopping malls and lots of great restaurants. Close to Taipei 101. The most luxurious area to stay in is Taipei.
  • Datong District: The best area to stay in Taipei for budget travelers. You’ll find cheaper and more spacious accommodation in Datong.
  • ZhongShan District: Zhongsan District is best suited for laid-back travelers looking for a more traditional vibe. 
  • Daan District: Best place to stay in Taipei for families. Countless of the best eateries and hipster cafes at Daan area.

Taipei Accommodation Tips: We recommend booking your favorite hotel as soon as you find it. Popular hotels and cheaper room options are running out fast. You will need to look for more expensive options.

To make your trip to Taiwan more convenient and affordable, it may be better to stay in one accommodation for all nights. They have a remarkable train and bus system anyway, so returning to your accommodation shouldn’t be a huge problem.

Ximending (Wanhua)

Ximending in Wanhua District is the best place to stay for first-time visitors to Taipei. It is a fun neighborhood and always buzzing with activity no matter what time of day it is. It’s especially fun at nights on weekends when young Taiwanese flock to the area to party. The atmosphere is lively.

There are lots to see and do if you choose to stay at Ximending. A mere 15-minute walk from trendy Ximending are some of Taipei’s most popular cultural attractions, like Longshan Temple and Bopiliao Historical Block. It is also very convenient to get around in Taipei city with public transport well-connected. The Taipei Main Station is just one station away!

Best Hotels in Ximending (Wanhua)

Where to Stay in Taipei for First-Timer - Green World Hotel Zhonghua
Where to Stay in Taipei for First-Timer – Green World Hotel Zhonghua

High-Range:

Green World Hotel (Zhonghua) – A popular choice among travelers when looking for where to stay in Taipei. The hotel is located at Ximending, with 5-minute walk from Taipei Railway Station.

Just Sleep Ximending – Conveniently located with a short 2-minute walk from MRT Ximen Station and Ximending Shopping Area. So getting out and about is pretty easy from here.

Hotel Midtown Richardson – A simple and sleek room located right next to MRT Ximen Station. It provides you with all the amenities during your stay. Walking distance to Taipei’s famous shopping street!

Hotel attic room view
Hotel attic room view

Mid-Range:

Hotel Attic is a great mid-range hotel in the best neighborhood in Ximending. The property is very cozy and has inviting vibes. It is located a 3-minute walk from MRT Ximen Station and 5 5-minute walk to Red House Ximending.

Muzik Hotel (Ximen Station Branch) is a nice and clean 3-star hotel in Taipei with reasonable price tag! You will only be a few minutes away from Ximen MRT Station and Ximending marketplace, where guests can enjoy shopping.

Taipei Budget Hotel - LIHO Hotel Hankou
Taipei Budget Hotel in Ximending – LIHO Hotel Hankou

Budget Hotel / Hostel:

LIHO Hotel Hankou – Here’s another excellent budget-friendly accommodation if you’re looking to be in XImending. Simple rooms and conveniently located with only a 2-minute walk from MRT Ximen Station. It’s truly one of the best hotels in one of the best neighborhoods out there and I recommend you get a reservation.

Fun Inn Taipei Hostel – This is a great budget accommodation in the Ximending, Taipei. The hostel is located only a 5-minute walk from MRT Beimen Station. It offers simple and affordable accommodations with free WiFi access. Dormitories for 4 to 12 people and female dormitories are offered.

Zhongzhen District

Another best place to stay in Taipei is Zhongzhen District. This area is the center of Taipei city. You will be in the middle of the action at all times and within walking distance of all the important attractions. Besides, Taipei Main Station is also located at Zhongzhen. You can plan your day trips or go outside of Taipei which is very convenient.

There are many accommodation options to choose from in Zhongzhen District Taipei. You can find luxurious 5-star hotels hostels and guesthouses for budget travelers. If you feel like this is the right area for your stay, here are the best hotels we have selected for you:

Best Hotel in Zhongzhen District

Luxury Hotel Resonance Taipei
Luxury Hotel Resonance Taipei

High-Range:

Hotel Resonance Taipei, Tapestry Collection by Hilton is a gorgeous hotel in Taipei. The room design is simple and modern, the furniture arrangement is made to make the room become more spacious. I’m sure you will love all the great facilities this hotel has to offer!

Cesar Park Hotel Taipei is located directly opposite Taipei Main Station which links to Taipei Metro, Taiwan High Speed Rail, Taoyuan Airport MRT, and Bus Terminal. The room size is impressive and clean. The staff is very friendly and helpful. Everything is excellent.

Mid-Range:

Via Hotel Taipei Station – This sleek and minimalist 3-star hotel is located in the heart of the neighborhood. It is close to all the interesting attractions you might want to visit and a 10-minute walk from Taipei Main Station. It’s definitely great for two travelers.

Finders Hotel – In case you’re still looking for your perfect middle-priced hotel located in Zhongzhen District, this one’s for you. It is within a 5-minute walk of shopping options at Ximending and a 10-minute walk to Taipei’s main station. The rooms are spacious and comfortable. Complementary snacks and playground which is great for family travelers.

Where to stay in Taipei on budget - Cavemen Hostel Taipei Station
Cavemen Hostel Taipei Station Youth Branch

Where to stay in Taipei on a budget:

Cavemen Hostel Taipei Station Youth Branch – Here’s one of the best places to stay for low rates! Very close proximity to the train and bus stations, shopping establishments, and restaurants. The hostel is clean and modern.

miniinn – If you’re looking for a budget dorm near the main station, this is it! It is very convenient just a few steps to Taipei’s main station. Affordable, friendly staff, and a nice communal area.

Xinyi District

Xinyi District is the most cosmopolitan and wealthiest district of Taipei. This is the best area to stay in Taipei if you are looking for a luxury hotel in Taipei. You will be surrounded by some of the most modern buildings, boutique shops, shopping malls, and plenty of Taipei nightlife spots.

The city’s most iconic landmark, Taipei 101 – the tallest skyscraper in the country is located in Xinyi.

Where to stay in Xinyi District

Top Luxury Hotel in Taipei - W Taipei
Top Luxury Hotel in Taipei – W Taipei

Best Luxury hotels in Taipei:

Grand Hyatt Taipei, is one of the top luxury hotels in Taipei. The hotel offers a wide range of amenities for a comfortable stay. It is located right next to the world-famous landmark Taipei 101 with a connecting bridge, and directly adjacent to Taipei World Trade Center and Taipei International Convention Center.

W Taipei – An amazing 5-star luxury hotel located in the Xinyi district, perfect for an upscale stay in Taiwan! I’m sure you will appreciate the amazing rooms with artistic and chic decor and the stunning views of Taipei 101!

Shangri-La’s Far Eastern Plaza Hotel is one of the city’s most popular luxury hotels. Located in the heart of the bustling Xinyi district, this five-star hotel offers guests a luxurious and indulgent stay. It features all the amenities you would expect from a luxury establishment including a rooftop outdoor swimming pool with panoramic Taipei city

High-Range:

The Tango Hotel Taipei XinYi is one of the best high-mid-priced hotels where you can stay in this area of Xinyi. This hotel is located right in the heart of the neighborhood and a 4-minute walk from City Hall MRT Station. The rooms are simply gorgeous and I’m sure you will love all the great facilities this hotel has to offer!

Pacific Business Hotel is the perfect choice for travelers looking for a slightly affordable Taipei hotel in Xinyi. You can expect spotless rooms, comfy beds, and a great breakfast spread when staying in the Pacific Business Hotel.

Datong District

Datong is located right near Zhongzheng. It isn’t as exciting as Ximending or as close to tourist attractions as Zhonzheng or Xinyi. However, you’ll encounter fewer tourists at Datong here. Notable attractions in Datong District include the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), Confucius Temple, beautiful Dihua Street, and the local’s favorite Ningxia Night Market at Datong.

If you’re wondering where to stay in Taipei on a budget, Datong is a great option.

Room View Yi Su Hotel Ningxia
Yi Su Hotel Ningxia

High-Range:

City Suites Nanxi offers clean and well-decorated rooms for guests to stay in Datng District. The location is superb, within walking distance to NingXia night Market, and DiHua shopping street. A short walk to the Airport MRT station and Beimen station.

Mid-Range:

Yi Su Hotel-Taipei Ningxia – Just a few steps from Ningxia Night Market, Yi Su Hotel-Taipei Ningxia offers clean and modern guest rooms in Datong District. Many eateries nearby. The price is reasonable and great value for the money.

Queens Hotel – The property is clean and near Taipei’s main station and Ningxia night market. It’s very accessible and near restaurants and convenience stores. Another great choice for where to stay in Taipei.

Zhongsan District

Zhongsan District is best suited for laid-back travelers looking for a more traditional vibe. It is one of the city’s classiest districts, filled with a wide range of museums, upscale galleries, and designer brand stores. Zhongshan has a good selection of accommodation options catering to all budgets.

Best Place to Stay in Regent Taipei
Best Place to Stay in Taipei – Regent Taipei

High-Range Hotel in Zhongshan District:

Regent Taipei is another example of the best place to stay in the Zhongshan District if you’re looking for a spoiled vacation. The modern building with an elegant interior design, featuring comfortable guestrooms and suites with chic decor.

Mid-Range:

Royal Inn Taipei Nanxi is conveniently located in the heart of Taipei’s commercial district. It is just a 1-minute walk from Zhongshan MRT Station and Mitsukoshi Department Store. The hotel offers spacious and well-appointed rooms with a flat-screen TV, bathtub, and free internet access.

Ambience Hotel Taipei – This accommodation has superb rooms, perfect for a good night’s sleep. It is near many metro line options and very easy to get around in the city. The room is comfortable and the staff is super friendly and helpful.

Daan District

Daan District is one of the most popular neighborhoods to stay in Taipei for family travelers. This is mostly due to the fact that Da’an is very nice and quiet but still has a lot of eateries around. There are countless of the best eateries and hipster cafes at Daan. You can just hop to Da’an MRT Station and visit the downtown area.

Room View MGH Mitsui Garden Hotel Zhongxiao
Room View MGH Mitsui Garden Hotel Zhongxiao

High-Range:

MGH Mitsui Garden Hotel Taipei Zhongxiao is one of the popular accommodations for where to stay in Taipei. It is the Japanese concept with free access to the public bath that overlooks the city. Excellent location especially with the metro only steps away from the hotel. The staff are professional and courteous.

Taipei Fullerton Hotel is a gorgeous 4-star hotel perfect for travelers looking for an upscale stay at affordable rates. It is strategically located in the Daan district and less than 5 minute walk from Da’an Station. There are many shops and eateries a short walk away.

Where To Stay in Taipei - Eastin Taipei Hotel
Where To Stay in Taipei – Eastin Taipei Hotel

Mid-Range:

Eastin Taipei Hotel – This is a 3-star hotel in the Daan district, perfect for those wondering where to stay in Taipei for a great value! Clean, modern, and comfortable. It is located in the center of the city with many shops and eateries nearby. It is conveniently 4-minute walk from the Zhongxiao Fuxing MRT station.

Hej Hotel – This cozy 3-star hotel offers surprisingly affordable rates without sacrificing style and comfort. The hotel is clean and cozy stay in Taipei. The entire facility is impeccably clean and the staff is extremely help. The location was just a few feet from the MRT which is very convenient.

Overall: Best Place to Stay in Taipei

That’s it! This is my complete guide for Taipei accommodations that fit every taste and pocket! I hope you are able to find your place to sleep when visiting the city. Whether it is your first time or you have been to Taiwan a few times, you must know where to stay in Taipei when you are done touring for the day. Choosing the ideal place to sleep is an important first step in planning your trip.

If you need help planning your itinerary in one of the most wonderful cities in Taiwan, I recommend you check out my posts below so you will have a better idea of all the activities that you can do in the city!

Keelung Itinerary - A Travel Guide Blog

Day Trip to Keelung Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

by | posted in: Taiwan | 0

Last updated on April 27th, 2024

Keelung is a charming port city filled with history, culture, and amazing food. Read my Keelung Travel Guide blog with an itinerary of what to do and see to help you discover all of the city’s attractions. An easy day trip from Taipei!

Out of the places that we’ve traveled to in Taiwan, Keelung (基隆) is one of the quieter and less touristy cities. It’s one of Taiwan’s major ports and is located less than an hour away from Taipei. Keelung is a charming coastal town for a chill-out day trip from Taipei. There are many great things to do to plan for your one-day Keelung itinerary. Popular attractions in Keelung include a colourful harbor and an enormous food market.

During one of my Taiwan visits, we finally made a day trip to Keelung from Taipei. We love seeing its coastal seaside and enjoying the sea breeze. Keelung is very relaxing with local charm.

Here’s my Keelung Travel Guide blog with suggestions on things to do and how to get around easily. My one-day Keelung itinerary for an easy day trip from Taipei is included!

How to get from Taipei to Keelung

How To Get to Keelung

Keelung is located less than 1 hour away from Taipei and is ideal for an easy day trip. The location is located in the northeast of Taipei between popular spots Yehliu in Wanli and the mountainous Jiufen.

The port city is superb and easy to reach via public transport. You can choose to get to Keelung by TRA train or bus from Taipei.

Keelung Train Station

Keelung Station is the main public transport for Keelung port city.

From Taipei to Keelung by train: Take any local TRA to Keelung City from Taipei (Taipei Main Station, Songshan Station, or Nangang Station). Trains come every 15 to 20 minutes, and the journey takes 45 minutes. The fare costs NTD $41 and you can pay by using Easycard during entry. No reserved seating.

From Taipei to Keelung by bus: Hop on KuoKuang Bus 1813, departing from Taipei Main Station. The ride takes 50 minutes or slightly longer depending on traffic conditions. Avoid using the bus to Keelung during weekends or public holidays as road traffic is normally congested.

Rental Car: Self-driving to visit Keelung is another great option. This is the most convenient option and less hassle. You can save a lot of time and energy compared to taking public transport. It is also the cheapest option for groups of travelers. If you are looking to rent a car to visit Keelung, check out the RentalCar.com to compare the prices and car models.

Where To Stay in Keelung

While you can visit Keelung on a day trip from Taipei. But if you want to spend a night in Keelung to better enjoy this port town, we recommend that you stay for a full day or spend one day in Keelung. The port city is also a stopover before or after visiting Jiufen. Plus, hotels in Keelung can be very affordable in comparison with Taipei.

Below are some of the best pick accommodations in Keelung:

Evergreen Laurel Hotel – This is a popular modern accommodation for travelers when looking for where to stay in Keelung. The hotel is located beside Keelung Harbour and boasts enchanting harbor views. Getting around in the downtown area is also very convenient. Many room options are available to choose from.

Just Live Inn – This is a mid-budget accommodation for those who want to be near the Keelung Train station. Staffs are all friendly. Free soft drinks and snacks are served to the guests.

For budget travelers, Light Inn is a modern and clean budget hotel. It is located close to the night market and easy to get around in Keelung. Staff are helpful and welcoming.

Things to do in Keelung

What to do in Keelung itinerary

People visit Keelung City to see the harbor and some of the city’s cultural sights and stunning nature. Most of the attractions all within walking distance of the Keelung Train and Bus Station. You will need to take a bus or taxi to some seaside attractions such as Helping Island Park and Chaojing Park.

Here are the top attractions in Keelung to visit on your Keelung day trip itinerary:

  • Heping Island and Heping Island Park
  • Zhengbin Fishing Port and its colourful houses
  • Zhongzheng Park
  • Keelung Maritime Plaza
  • Keelung Miaokou Night Market
  • Dianji Temple

Keelung Travel Tips: If you prefer to visit Keelung as part of an organised tour, there are several itineraries departing Taipei city that combine a visit to Keelung with other attractions in the area.

Recommended Tour to Keelung:

Heping Island

Heping Island

If you’re looking for lovely coastlines around Keelung, Peace Island or Heping Island is a popular place to visit. 

Heping Island was also called Sheliao Island (社寮島) during the Qing Dynasty and the Japanese Occupation. The island used to be separate from the mainland until the Heping Bridge was built to connect with Keelung City.

Getting there: Hop on a Keelung City Bus (#101) or (#102) which bus stop is located just outside Keelung’s train station. Get off at Heping Island Park stop and the bus ride takes about 15-20 minutes.

Heping Island Park

Keelung itinerary - Heping Island Park

Next, continue your Keelung itinerary by exploring the Heping Island Park (和平島地質公園). The huge geopark is filled with incredible seaside views and interesting rock formations. The park is similar to the famous Yehliu Geopark (野柳地質公園) but it is less crowded.

Heping Island Park - Sand Rock Formation

There are several walking trails that skirt the rugged coastline which provide wonderful views of unusual rock formations. It has lots of interesting coastal formations after years of erosion by the wind and sea. The sandstone-rock formations are spread out over a huge area.

Some eroded rocks formed in the shapes of animals, which is interesting.

Must-see in Keelung - Heping Island Park

Use some vivid imagination to see what rock formations look like. It looks like a turtle!

Stroll along coast at Heping Island Park

The park lies in a beautiful nature surrounded by seawater pools where you can walk along the coast.

Scenic Pavilion at Heping Island Park

Follow the circle trail up to the Scenic Pavilion (等嶼亭). It is a perfect place to take some rest and enjoy the view. You can see the Keelung Islet (基隆嶼) from far away and surrounded by a sea cliff.

The visit is to Heping Island Park worthwhile and breathtaking.

Heping Island Park
Location: No. 360 Pingyi Road, Zhongzheng District.
Opening Hours: 8:00-19:00 (May-Oct) and 8:00-18:00 (Nov-Apr). Note that tickets are sold until one hour before the closing time.
Entrance fee: NTD $120 (Purchase E-Ticket from Klook)

Getting there: Walk 10 minutes to Heping Island Park after getting from the Heping Island Park bus stop.

Zhengbin Fishing Port Colourful Houses

Zhengbin Fishing Port Colourful Houses

If you have some time for your Keelung itinerary, it is worth to visit the Zhengbin Fishing Port (正濱漁港) on your way back to Keelung Station area. Zhengbin Fishing Port was established by the Japanese in the 1930s. It was once the biggest fishing harbor in Taiwan during the Japanese era. It gradually became a lot quieter as the fishing boats moved to neighbouring Badouzi.

The Zhengbin Fishing Port Colourful Houses is one of the popular IG sights in Keelung. This is one of the spots you’ll see most of when looking for Keelung. Here you’ll find dozens of colorful shophouses lining a sleepy fishing harbor. Rows of brightly painted houses along the coastlines and add some vibrancy to the harbor view.

Keelung itinerary - Cafe hoping at Zhengbin Fishing Port Colourful Houses

After some nice photo shoots, you can walk over to the colorful houses for shopping and cafe hopping. There are plenty of harbor-side spots where you can sit back and have some drinks or coffee. We had our afternoon break at Tuman Cafe.

Tuman Cafe Keelung

How to get there: Zhengbin Fishing Harbour is about 20 minutes by bus from Keelung Train Station. There is no proper bus stop to get to the harbor. You can ask the buses to stop at the Zhongzheng Road-Zhengbin Road intersection stop and then walk for a few minutes.

Keelung Maritime Plaza

Visit Keelung Maritime Plaza

Keelung Maritime Plaza (海洋廣場) is a lovely wooden promenade by Keelung’s Harbour. It is a nice place to just sit down with plenty of benches. Grab a drink from the nearby shops and enjoy the view of the Harbour and surrounding hillside. You can also spot the “Keelung” letters from the hillside.

Keelung Maritime Plaza is located on the way from Keelung Station to the Miaokou Night Market. It is so worth stopping by to have some rest and enjoy the view.

How to get to Keelung Maritime Plaza: A short 2 to 3-minute walk from Keelung Station.

Keelung Miaokou Night Market

Keelung Miaokou Night Market

After a busy day of sightseeing Keelung itinerary, lastly, head to the Miaokou Night Market for food!

Also known as Keelung Night Market, the Miaokou Night Market (基隆廟口夜市) is a lovely market street packed full of good and delicious food. It is easy to locate and navigate in the market as the stall number and name are displayed on the metal signage. The market with rows of yellow lanterns along the street, giving it with nostalgic vibe.

What To Eat at Keelung Miaokou Night Market

Food Stall at Keelung Miaokou Night Market

There is an incredible range of stalls covering almost every taste. Some of the stalls are very well known amongst locals and food bloggers. Long queues form at these stalls. We are able to try different foods throughout the market.

Here’s a collection of the food we ate in Keelung.

Street Food at at Keelung Miaokou Night Market

Seafood is fresh in Keelung. A small bowl of fishball noodle soup. This is a pretty classic Taiwanese snack staple but somehow I found it was most delicious in Keelung. Not something to shoot but truly local taste.

What to eat in Keelung Miaokou Night Market

We didn’t have any must-eat food in Keelung Night Market and just picked what we liked when strolling along the market street.

Some other popular foods to try in Keelung Night Market include Fish paste tianbula, deep-fried sandwiches, Crab thick soup, barbeque seafood, and many more street food.

Stream Prawn Dumpling at Keelung Miaokou Night Market

We tried the freshly steam prawn paste dumping which is vey delicious.

What to eat in Keelung - Food in Miaokou Night Market

Lastly, lured by the dessert with a bowl of shaved ice (paopao bing 泡泡冰) or tofu. We were completely blown away by a bowl of ice tofu after all the street food. So refreshing!

Eat Desset at Keelung Miaokou Night Market

In short, we experienced and tried a variety of food in Miaokou Night Market. It was one of the favorites among all the night markets we visited in Taiwan!

Miaokou Night Market is open from early afternoon until night. It can be crowded at night, so best to come at around 17:00.

How to get there: Miaokou Night Market is a 10 minute walk eastwards from Keelung Train Station.

Dianji Temple

Keelung Itinerary - Dianji Temple

Dianji Temple (奠濟宮) is a small shrine over 100 years old in Keelung. It is one of the remarkable architecture buildings located in the middle of the Miaokou Night Market food street. In fact, “Miaokou” translates to ‘Temple entrance’ in Chinese. It was first started by the market stalls set up at the entrance of Dianji Temple until more and more stalls along the market street.

The architecture is typical Taiwanese and features lots of intricate carvings and colorful paintings. Locals come to pray and pay their respects in the temple. A quick 5-minute visit to Dianji Temple.

Ren’ai Market

Ren ai Market Keelung

If you are looking for a wet market that sells fresh produce, head to Ren’ai market (仁愛市場). It is not a typical tourist place but if you can come here to look for some local food. There are many food stalls surrounding the market and eateries on the the second floor of the building.

The market is located about a block away from Miaokou Night Market along Aisan Road.

More Time for Keelung Itinerary

As aboved is an easy day trip from Taipei, so we didn’t packed too much of attractions in this keelung itinerary. If have more time or days to spend, consider below during your trip to Keelung:

Zhongzheng Park (基隆中正公園) – This huge religious park is home to several beautiful temples and an enormous statue of Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy.  The 25-metre Goddess of Mercy statue is flanked by grizzly gold companions. You’ll also get the best view of the city from here!

Getting there: About 15 minutes walk from the east side of Keelung Station. 

Chaojing Park (潮境公園) – On the east of Badouzi Peninsula, Chaojing Park is a seaside park for a great stroll with family. It was formerly a dumping ground but today has been turned into a cute little coastal park with several interesting art sculptures and rock formations.

Getting there: Take Keelung Bus (#791) or Keelung City Bus (#103) to the National Museum of Marine Science direction. Get off at the Technology (Bishuixiang) stop.

Overall: A Day Trip to Keelung from Taipei

All in all, we hope you get an idea of how to explore the charming city for your Keelung itinerary. It’s almost a little surprising how Keelung City offers visitors. We enjoyed our visit to the natural Peace Park, seeing the Zhengbin Fishing Port Colourful Houses, and eating at the Miaokou Night Market. This small and delightful port city is worth planning for an easy day trip from Taipei.

That’s it! Thanks for reading my Keelung travel guide blog!

Traveling to Taiwan and looking for travel inspiration? Here is our itinerary to some of the interesting places:

Nishiki Market Travel Guide

Nishiki Market Food Guide: What To Eat and Buy

by | posted in: Kansai Japan | 0

Last updated on April 27th, 2024

In this Nishiki Market Food Guide, we’ll take you to this Kyoto local Market for its amazing array of food for what to eat here. One of the food places you must visit in Kyoto.

Nicknamed Kyoto’s Kitchen, Nishiki Market (“錦市場” in Japanese) is one of the most famous and busiest markets in Kyoto. Originally opened as a fish market during the Edo period, this traditional market now has more than 400 years of history.

This Kyoto local market has been a popular place among locals for centuries. There are over 120 shops and stalls packed along the narrow street stretching about 390 meters long. Locals purchase their ingredients at Nishiki Market. You can find a wide variety of traditional ingredients used for Kyoto cuisines, local specialties, seafood, pickled vegetables, and much more. Foodies and tourists visit the Nishiki market for food. It’s home to some of the best and freshest seafood in Kyoto.

If you are planning your visit to this Kyoto food Market, check out my below Nishiki Market food guide post for more pictures and information.

Nishiki Market

How To Go To Nishiki Market

Similiar to Osaka Kuromon Ichiban Market, many travelers love go to Nishiki Market for food. There are over a hundred vendors sell all types of Japanese food and Kyoto specialties in the market.

How to Get to Nishiki Market:
The market is very close to the Shijo subway station in Kyoto. From JR Kyoto station, it is about a 5-minute subway ride and a 10-minute walk.

We advise visiting Nishiki Market around 10:00 to 11:00 morning as some of the shops are still closed before that. That would be a good time to walk around and sample many different types of seafood before settling down for a light lunch.

Most of the stalls will be closes start from 17:00 to 17:30. But some stalls might even close in the early evening. So give yourself at least half an hour to walk through the entire street.

Nishiki Market Guide: Avoid visiting the market on Wednesdays as most of the stalls will be closed.

What To Eat in Nishiki Market

What to Eat in Nishiki Market - Seafood

Nishiki Market is an amazing food market with over 100 stalls. You can find basically every Japanese food here. It’s the kind of place where you can just wander and see what you can eat in this Kyoto local Market. We didn’t even bother to look up recommended restaurants and just pick whatever you like. We’ve had sushi, sakura mochi, ichigo daifuku, just to name a few.

Here sharing some of the food where you can find and eat in Nishiki Market. So you will have an idea of what to eat when visiting here.

Grilled Seafood

Seafood in Nishiki Market

Once you entered, there a rows rows of shops selling seafood in the market. Look for the stalls offering cooked or grilled seafood service. Just sit down and enjoy the fresh seafood meal with a cold beer. 

Fresh Juicy Oyster in Nishiki Market

The seafood is particularly interesting with freshly shucked oysters and scallops. We had a great time sampling different varieties of superbly fresh seafood at great prices.

We would recommend the fresh oyster and it was super fresh!

Street Food

What to eat in Nishiki Market - Street Food

There were also different street foods you could try in the market. Plenty of choices such as croquettes, wagyu skewers, Dango (Japanese sweet rice dumplings), rice crackers, soy milk doughnuts, and lots more.

Free sampling of chesnut

Some vendors also offer free food samples to try.

Tempura Skewer in Nishiki Market

We enjoyed sampling all sorts of snack food. Purchased some strawberry mochi, tempura shrimp on a stick, and green tea ice cream. Plenty to try. Most of the street food was less than ¥500 but it can be an expensive meal if you cannot control it by buying more. Too many good treats to choose from!

Nishiki Market Guide: Eat them inside or in front of the shop. It is considered rude to walk around while eating the food in the market.

Japanese Picked Vegetable

Japanese Picked Vegetable

Apart from food options, there was also heaps of places to buy local tea, Japanese pickles, fruit and sourvenirs. You can buy souvenirs and gifts to bring back home.

Kyoto Local Produces

There are also some restaurants in the market. But we all stuck with just walking around buying all the smaller bites and snacks so that we may have the opportunity to try as much as we can. Go there hungry as it is part of the fun of the food visit.

You can spend about 1 to 1.5 hours for food hunting in the market.

Visit Nishiki Tenmangu Shrine Nearby

Nishiki Tenmangu Shrine is located within the shopping streets. You can couple the trip to Nishiki market with Nishiki Tenmangu Shrine and shopping street nearby. So it’s quite a fulfilling half-day trip.

Not a must-visit place, but worth stopping by if you are nearby.

Overall: Food Trip to Nishiki Market

A Food Visit To Nishiki Market

All in all, Nishiki Market is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the food and flavors of Kyoto’s culinary scene. With over 100 vendors selling everything from fresh seafood to traditional Japanese sweets, you can find something to eat here. Even though the covered market is busy most of the time it is still worth visiting.

Highly recommended to visit for food and last-minute souvenir hunting.

Kyoto itinerary: 15 Things To Do and Eat for 3 Days in Kyoto

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