Taiwan is a very tourist friendly country. There is so much to see and do. It is super easy to jump on a train from Taipei to see the port city of Keelung. The train is very inexpensive and easy to ride.
Keelung, officially known as Keelung City, is a major port city situated in the northeastern part of Taiwan. The city is a part of the Taipei–Keelung metropolitan area, along with its neighbors, New Taipei City and Taipei, respectively. Nicknamed the Rainy Port for its frequent rain and maritime role, the city is Taiwan's second largest seaport (after Kaohsiung). The city was founded by the Spanish Empire in 1626, then called La Santisima Trinidad.
Keelung has a lot of history and many things to see. It’s worth at least one day to explore as well as an evening at the largest night market in northern Taiwan. During my stay in Taiwan this was the highlight of my trip and I can’t wait to return.
For 41 NTD it’s very inexpensive and everything is easy to navigate. I walk you ...
Ing Nam Sam Khok Riverside Market is a charming weekend flea market located in the Sam Khok District, Pathum Thani, along the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Open Friday to Sunday from 9 AM to 8 PM, it’s a local gem known for its authentic, community-driven atmosphere.
Visitors can explore stalls selling fresh seafood, traditional Thai street food (e.g., grilled river prawns, som tam, Mon-style noodles), handmade crafts, antiques, and local produce.
The market is small and local, so expect a more intimate experience compared to larger tourist markets.
Originally named Sam Khok (“three mounds”), Pathum Thani was established around 1660 by Mon migrants fleeing Burmese rule during the Ayutthaya period. These settlers built thriving riverside communities along the Chao Phraya River, engaging in agriculture and pottery production, as evidenced by archaeological sites like the Tao Ong Ang Kiln Ruins.
In 1815, King Rama II visited the area and renamed it Prathum Thani (“City of Lotuses”) ...
Hua Takhe Old Market (ตลาดหัวตะเข้เก่า) is a nostalgic canalside community and marketplace in Lat Krabang District, eastern Bangkok. Named after the “crocodile’s head” shape formed by the confluence of Prawet Burirom, Lam Pla Thio, and Hua Takhe canals, this market dates back to the reign of King Rama V (late 19th century). It’s a vibrant yet laid-back spot with century-old wooden shophouses, street art, and a lively local vibe, perfect for a half-day visit, especially near Suvarnabhumi Airport (10-15 min drive).
Wander along the canal past traditional wooden houses, cross a graffiti-covered bridge for photo ops, and soak in the retro charm. The market blends daily life with creative spaces like art galleries and quirky shops, with cats adding to the charm.
Enjoy Thai street food like som tam, grilled skewers, and traditional desserts, or sip coffee at canal-side spots like Siyaek Hua Takhe Cafe. Many dishes reflect Mon culinary influences.
Rent a kayak (350 ...
Wat Sing is an ancient temple, built during the Ayutthaya period in the province of Pathum Thani, which is considered historically significant for the Sam Kok community. The Ayutthaya Chronicles mention the migration of the Mon people, to settle in the Sam Kok village and the temple of Wat Sing. This temple served as a refuge for Buddhist monks who fled the Burmese invasion, along with the Mon people.
Wat Sing is a temple closely associated with the Sam Kok community and has a longer history than the Mon people's settlement in the Sam Kok village.
The architecture of Wat Sing exhibits various art styles from the Ayutthaya period, which have been preserved and cherished by the Sam Kok community.
The Wihan Noi is a small rear temple constructed with Thai style brickwork and adorned with terracotta tiles. The front facade features a gabled roof, and the base of the temple is in the shape of a curved ship's hull, resembling a semi circular stupa. It retains the characteristics of a semi gable with small openings on ...
