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Taiwan is known for its stunning mountains, vibrant night markets, and coastal beauty—but if you're exploring the northern part of the island, don’t overlook one of its most underrated natural gems: the Keelung River (基隆河).



Keelung River

Flowing through the heart of New Taipei City, Taipei, and eventually into the Keelung Harbor, Keelung River offers a refreshing blend of scenic views, cultural landmarks, riverside parks, and cycling paths that appeal to locals and travelers alike.

Keelung River on map

The Keelung River originates in Jingtong, a charming mountain town in Pingxi District (famous for its Sky Lantern Festival), and winds approximately 86 kilometers westward through New Taipei, Taipei City, and Keelung, before emptying into the Pacific Ocean.

Keelung River in Jingtong

Historically, the river played a vital role in transportation and trade, especially during Taiwan’s early development. Over the years, major efforts have been made to improve water quality and develop riverside parks, making it more accessible and enjoyable for public use.

Keelung River meets Tamsui River basin in Taipei

Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Taipei or a seasoned adventurer looking for new spots to explore, the Keelung River is a surprisingly peaceful escape that runs parallel to the bustling pace of the city.


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Things to Do Along the Keelung River

A part of Keelung Riverside Bikeway system in Beitou District, Taipei City

🚴‍♀️ 1. Cycle or Stroll the Riverside Parks

Taipei is known for its excellent cycling infrastructure, and the Keelung River Bikeway is a perfect example. This riverside path stretches for dozens of kilometers, with dedicated bike lanes connecting scenic parks, sports complexes, and peaceful spots where you can take in the views.

Keelung River Bikeway Guide Map

You can rent a YouBike (Taipei’s public bicycle rental system) and cruise from places like Dazhi, Neihu, or Nangang, all the way to the riverside areas near Songshan and beyond.



🌳 2. Visit Popular Riverside Parks

Several large parks line the banks of the Keelung River. Notable ones include:

  • Dajia Riverside Park (大佳河濱公園): Located in the Zhongshan District, this massive park is a hotspot for families and outdoor lovers. It has sports courts, wide open lawns, and even spots for kite flying.

  • Meiti Riverside Park (美堤河濱公園): A peaceful green space great for photography, especially around sunset.

  • Rainbow Riverside Park (彩虹河濱公園): Near the famous Rainbow Bridge, this area is known for its vibrant night lights, skatepark, and riverside events.




A view of Second MacArthur Bridge and Taipei 101 in the background from Rainbow Riverside Park

🌉 3. Admire the Bridges

The Keelung River is crossed by a number of beautiful and modern bridges, each with its own character. Rainbow Bridge, Dazhi Bridge, and MacArthur Bridge are not just functional—they’re architectural highlights that light up in the evenings. A walk or night bike ride across any of them is a must-do for a romantic or reflective moment.


Waterfalls and Eco Attractions

A trip to the upper reaches of the Keelung River wouldn’t be complete without witnessing the breathtaking Shifen Waterfall (十分瀑布), often referred to as the "Niagara of Taiwan." Located in Pingxi District, New Taipei City, this majestic 20-meter-high and 40-meter-wide curtain waterfall is the largest in Taiwan and a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Shifen Waterfall as part of Keelung River

The falls cascade into a deep pool surrounded by lush greenery, creating a dramatic yet tranquil setting. The mist in the air, the sound of roaring water, and the multiple viewing platforms make this a perfect spot to soak in Taiwan’s natural beauty.

There are also well-maintained walking paths and bridges around the falls, including the scenic Guanpu Suspension Bridge (觀瀑吊橋), which offers panoramic views of the river and nearby hills.

Overlooking Keelung River from Shifen Street

Shifen Waterfall is easily accessible via a short walk from Shifen Old Street, where you can also enjoy releasing sky lanterns, savoring street food, or exploring the nostalgic charm of the old railway town. Combined with the natural scenery, the experience offers a perfect blend of culture and adventure along the Keelung River.

From Shifenguanguang Bridge: Keelung River on the left and Jifu Road Flyover in the middle

If you're looking to explore more, the surrounding area in Pingxi is home to other smaller waterfalls, trails, and riverside paths that showcase the quieter, greener side of Taiwan.



Keelung River and Taipei's Urban Harmony

One of the most remarkable things about the Keelung River is how seamlessly it integrates into urban life. In cities where rivers are often forgotten or polluted, Taipei has revitalized the Keelung River into a source of pride. Locals jog along its banks in the morning, children play in its adjacent parks during the day, and couples enjoy evening walks beneath the glow of bridge lights.

Dajia Riverside Park and Dazhi Bridge

Moreover, the river contributes to Taipei’s flood prevention system. Massive floodplains and levees have been designed not only to protect the city during typhoon season but also to double as recreational areas when dry.



How to Get There

The Keelung River is accessible from various MRT stations in Taipei:

  • Dazhi Station (Wenhu Line) – for Dajia Riverside Park
  • Songshan Station (Green Line) – near Rainbow Bridge
  • Nangang Exhibition Center (Blue Line) – for Nangang Riverside Park
  • Jiannan Road Station (Wenhu Line) – for Meiti Park

Rainbow Bridge over Keelung River | Photo from Travel Taipei

Biking, walking, or even jogging the riverside paths is the best way to explore the river and its surroundings. You’ll find rest stops, convenience stores, public restrooms, and scenic spots all along the way.



Final Thoughts

The Keelung River may not be the first destination on your Taiwan itinerary, but it’s a hidden gem that reveals a different, quieter side of the island’s capital region. It’s where city meets nature, where old trade routes now bloom with flowers, cyclists, and joggers, and where the pulse of Taipei softens into the rhythmic flow of water.

If you're seeking balance between sightseeing and serenity, be sure to spend a few hours along the Keelung River. You might just fall in love with a side of Taipei most travelers overlook.

Visit my list of Frequently Asked Questions in Taiwan (FAQs) to learn more.



KEELUNG RIVER: Where Cityscapes Meet Countryside in Northern Taiwan (Travel Guide)


Taiwan is known for its stunning mountains, vibrant night markets, and coastal beauty—but if you're exploring the northern part of the island, don’t overlook one of its most underrated natural gems: the Keelung River (基隆河).



Keelung River

Flowing through the heart of New Taipei City, Taipei, and eventually into the Keelung Harbor, Keelung River offers a refreshing blend of scenic views, cultural landmarks, riverside parks, and cycling paths that appeal to locals and travelers alike.

Keelung River on map

The Keelung River originates in Jingtong, a charming mountain town in Pingxi District (famous for its Sky Lantern Festival), and winds approximately 86 kilometers westward through New Taipei, Taipei City, and Keelung, before emptying into the Pacific Ocean.

Keelung River in Jingtong

Historically, the river played a vital role in transportation and trade, especially during Taiwan’s early development. Over the years, major efforts have been made to improve water quality and develop riverside parks, making it more accessible and enjoyable for public use.

Keelung River meets Tamsui River basin in Taipei

Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Taipei or a seasoned adventurer looking for new spots to explore, the Keelung River is a surprisingly peaceful escape that runs parallel to the bustling pace of the city.


Loading...

Things to Do Along the Keelung River

A part of Keelung Riverside Bikeway system in Beitou District, Taipei City

🚴‍♀️ 1. Cycle or Stroll the Riverside Parks

Taipei is known for its excellent cycling infrastructure, and the Keelung River Bikeway is a perfect example. This riverside path stretches for dozens of kilometers, with dedicated bike lanes connecting scenic parks, sports complexes, and peaceful spots where you can take in the views.

Keelung River Bikeway Guide Map

You can rent a YouBike (Taipei’s public bicycle rental system) and cruise from places like Dazhi, Neihu, or Nangang, all the way to the riverside areas near Songshan and beyond.



🌳 2. Visit Popular Riverside Parks

Several large parks line the banks of the Keelung River. Notable ones include:

  • Dajia Riverside Park (大佳河濱公園): Located in the Zhongshan District, this massive park is a hotspot for families and outdoor lovers. It has sports courts, wide open lawns, and even spots for kite flying.

  • Meiti Riverside Park (美堤河濱公園): A peaceful green space great for photography, especially around sunset.

  • Rainbow Riverside Park (彩虹河濱公園): Near the famous Rainbow Bridge, this area is known for its vibrant night lights, skatepark, and riverside events.




A view of Second MacArthur Bridge and Taipei 101 in the background from Rainbow Riverside Park

🌉 3. Admire the Bridges

The Keelung River is crossed by a number of beautiful and modern bridges, each with its own character. Rainbow Bridge, Dazhi Bridge, and MacArthur Bridge are not just functional—they’re architectural highlights that light up in the evenings. A walk or night bike ride across any of them is a must-do for a romantic or reflective moment.


Waterfalls and Eco Attractions

A trip to the upper reaches of the Keelung River wouldn’t be complete without witnessing the breathtaking Shifen Waterfall (十分瀑布), often referred to as the "Niagara of Taiwan." Located in Pingxi District, New Taipei City, this majestic 20-meter-high and 40-meter-wide curtain waterfall is the largest in Taiwan and a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Shifen Waterfall as part of Keelung River

The falls cascade into a deep pool surrounded by lush greenery, creating a dramatic yet tranquil setting. The mist in the air, the sound of roaring water, and the multiple viewing platforms make this a perfect spot to soak in Taiwan’s natural beauty.

There are also well-maintained walking paths and bridges around the falls, including the scenic Guanpu Suspension Bridge (觀瀑吊橋), which offers panoramic views of the river and nearby hills.

Overlooking Keelung River from Shifen Street

Shifen Waterfall is easily accessible via a short walk from Shifen Old Street, where you can also enjoy releasing sky lanterns, savoring street food, or exploring the nostalgic charm of the old railway town. Combined with the natural scenery, the experience offers a perfect blend of culture and adventure along the Keelung River.

From Shifenguanguang Bridge: Keelung River on the left and Jifu Road Flyover in the middle

If you're looking to explore more, the surrounding area in Pingxi is home to other smaller waterfalls, trails, and riverside paths that showcase the quieter, greener side of Taiwan.



Keelung River and Taipei's Urban Harmony

One of the most remarkable things about the Keelung River is how seamlessly it integrates into urban life. In cities where rivers are often forgotten or polluted, Taipei has revitalized the Keelung River into a source of pride. Locals jog along its banks in the morning, children play in its adjacent parks during the day, and couples enjoy evening walks beneath the glow of bridge lights.

Dajia Riverside Park and Dazhi Bridge

Moreover, the river contributes to Taipei’s flood prevention system. Massive floodplains and levees have been designed not only to protect the city during typhoon season but also to double as recreational areas when dry.



How to Get There

The Keelung River is accessible from various MRT stations in Taipei:

  • Dazhi Station (Wenhu Line) – for Dajia Riverside Park
  • Songshan Station (Green Line) – near Rainbow Bridge
  • Nangang Exhibition Center (Blue Line) – for Nangang Riverside Park
  • Jiannan Road Station (Wenhu Line) – for Meiti Park

Rainbow Bridge over Keelung River | Photo from Travel Taipei

Biking, walking, or even jogging the riverside paths is the best way to explore the river and its surroundings. You’ll find rest stops, convenience stores, public restrooms, and scenic spots all along the way.



Final Thoughts

The Keelung River may not be the first destination on your Taiwan itinerary, but it’s a hidden gem that reveals a different, quieter side of the island’s capital region. It’s where city meets nature, where old trade routes now bloom with flowers, cyclists, and joggers, and where the pulse of Taipei softens into the rhythmic flow of water.

If you're seeking balance between sightseeing and serenity, be sure to spend a few hours along the Keelung River. You might just fall in love with a side of Taipei most travelers overlook.

Visit my list of Frequently Asked Questions in Taiwan (FAQs) to learn more.



Asia History Keelung New Taipei City Northern Taiwan River Taipei Taiwan

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