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If you're planning a trip to Taiwan, Coral Harbor shouldn't be overlooked. It stands out as the most picturesque port city in Taiwan. Whether you've explored all the attractions in Taipei, yearn for sunset views over the sea, or simply seek a new destination for your journey, Coral Harbor offers impressive tourist spots you shouldn't miss.
It only takes about an hour from downtown Taipei to reach Coral Harbor. Transportation options are abundant, including buses and trains, making it easily accessible.
The panoramic view of the city on Coral Mountain
Nestled amidst three sides of mountains and one side facing the Coral Sea, Coral Fortress stands as a secure haven for anchored ships, transforming into a bustling port city. It's a melting pot of various cultural backgrounds, influenced by nations like Spain, the Netherlands, and notably Japan. With over one-third of the population being Japanese, Coral Fortress vividly showcases the Land of the Rising Sun, especially evident in the vibrant Coral Night Market adorned with countless hanging lanterns.
A Beautiful Day in the Port City
Exiting the Coral Fortress bus station and strolling along the coastline leads you to the heart of the harbor, where large cargo ships and tourist vessels dock. Standing here, one can't help but feel small amidst the majestic backdrop of ships and flocks of seagulls soaring across the sky.
What to Do in Coral Fortress?
Dynasty Harmony Park - Environmental Restoration and Conservation Park - 環保復育公園
Arriving here, you'll be amazed to learn that this place was once a large landfill of the city. Efforts have been made to restore the landscape of this area, creating a destination not only for sightseeing but also for educating people about the effects of climate change.
The serene scenery here is hard to believe that it was once the city's landfill.
Viewed from above, you'll notice that this entire area juts out into the sea like a promontory, shaped like the head of a bird, which is the symbol here and is also represented by a seagull sculpture made from scrap metal.
The most beautiful time to visit is during sunset when you can admire the panoramic view of the expansive sky embracing the sea, with numerous seagulls soaring overhead.
The iconic promontory of the park
Tranquil scenery in the afternoon
Many unique sculptures attract visitors here for photography sessions.
The slope leading down to the sea
Maritime Square
Coral Harbor is the second largest port city after Kaohsiung. Therefore, the city's pace is vibrant and rich. Few know that it's an ancient port, also the first landing spot for the indigenous people who inhabit here.
A panoramic view of the square
Maritime Plaza Square is the perfect spot for yacht watching, strolling, and enjoying the city's night scenes. With three sides facing the sea, the port extends deeply inland, making this place the heart of the city.
In addition to sea gazing, this place also hosts annual art activities, decorations, and exhibitions, attracting many tourists and locals for leisure.
The square is always bustling with visitors
Many tourist and cargo ships dock here
Children are thrilled to see the large ships
Masahama Colorful Houses District - 正濱港口彩色屋
Photo Location: Front landscape, No. 58~88, Zhengbin Road, Zhongzheng District, Keelung City
The colorful rows of houses are a highlight here
Transportation Information:
This place is known as the 'Mini Venice'
Masahama Colorful Houses consists of 16 brightly painted houses located in the Zhengbin Fish Port on the southern side of Heping Island. It's an old fishing port established by the Japanese in early 1934. During the Japanese occupation, it was Taiwan's largest port. Although it has deteriorated over time, it still maintains a simple style, thanks to the vibrant rows of houses that bring life to this old fishing port.
Sunset is the most beautiful time here
Coral Harbor Night Market (Miaokou)
Like many night markets in Taiwan, Coral Harbor Night Market sprung up around a temple called Dianji Temple (基隆奠濟宮開漳聖王). Temples have long been the focal points of religious events and community gatherings. So, eateries emerged to serve everyone. As more vendors joined, they began lining the streets leading to the temple, and the night market was born.
The market carries a hint of Japan's imagery
Coral Harbor Night Market, also known as Miaokou Night Market, “Miaokou - 廟口) which means 'temple entrance.'
Coral Harbor Night Market (also known as Miaokou Night Market) is one of the most famous night markets in Taiwan and remains the city's top attraction at night. Renowned chef Anthony Bourdain also dined here during his visit to Taiwan in 2013.
Zhongshan Pedestrian Bridge
If you're a TVB drama enthusiast from the 90s or a die-hard fan of actress Maggie Cheung, then Zhongshan Pedestrian Bridge is a must-visit spot in Coral Harbor.
Zhongshan Pedestrian Bridge
Zhongshan Pedestrian Bridge connects Coral Harbor Station with districts, providing residents with a more convenient route to the station. The bridge's unique design with prominent yellow color and considerable length adds to its mystique. It became famous overnight as the filming location for Maggie Cheung's Millennium Mambo (2001). Following the film's release, many flocked here for photo ops, making it a popular destination for tourists.
Zhongshan Pedestrian Bridge
Where can you go from here?
From Coral Harbor, you can easily explore tourist attractions such as
What to eat at the night market?
Night markets are one of Taiwan's specialties. Whenever you visit a new place, searching for good eateries is a must. And going to the night market is just the thing to do.
Fried baby back ribs, stall 21 (魯排骨):
Wu Ming Noodle Shop (吳姳麵館)
Rolled chicken:
Pig's trotters (Keelung Temple Mouth No. 22 Shrimp Soup Pig's Trotter):
Dingbian Cuo Soup (Ding bian cuo (鼎邊趖)): literally means 'dough stuck to the pot', is a specialty of Keelung originating from Fujian Province, China. It is made by pouring rice flour onto a pan, then scraping it off to create thick noodles, served in fragrant broth. This is one of the most famous ding bian cuo stalls in Keelung. The soup is made with golden needle mushrooms, shrimp and fish balls, cabbage, mushrooms, and garnished with parsley leaves for decoration.
For me, Keelung is the most impressive destination when visiting Taiwan. Despite being just a port city, it has many impressive attractions. I hope the above information will help you somewhat in choosing destinations when traveling to Taiwan, with tickets, flights, train tickets, or hotel rooms all available for booking on Mytour.
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