Northeast Coast Instagram Photo Tour in Keelung & New Taipei

Travelers eager to capture Taiwan’s natural beauty and vibrant culture often find themselves drawn to the northeast coast, home to rugged cliffs, colorful fishing harbors, and lively night markets. This Northeast Coast Instagram Photo Tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience that combines scenic vistas with authentic local flavors. While it’s primarily designed for photography enthusiasts, it also appeals to those who love nature, culture, and good food—all within a well-organized day trip from Taipei.

Three aspects stand out: the opportunity to explore stunning coastal landscapes at Bitou Cape, the chance to wander through colorful, Venice-like houses at Zhengbin Harbor, and the visit to the bustling Keelung Miaokou Night Market. The tour’s value is enhanced by its local guide who brings insight and friendliness, plus the fact that all transportation and entrance fees to Heping Island GeoPark are included for a hassle-free experience.

However, one consideration is that the itinerary might be less suited to visitors traveling during winter, especially if weather conditions turn rough—several reviews mention weather-related disruptions and safety concerns. This tour is best for travelers who are comfortable with moderate physical activity, enjoy scenic photography, and want a good overview of northern Taiwan’s coastal highlights in one day.

If you’re seeking a blend of natural beauty, cultural sites, and local flavors, this tour offers a strong value for the price.

Good To Know

• Perfect for photography lovers seeking iconic coastal views and vibrant harbor scenes.
• Includes transportation and entrance fees, reducing logistical worries.
• Guided by knowledgeable locals who enhance the experience with insights and helpful assistance.
• Offers a balanced mix of natural sights, cultural spots, and food experiences.
• Weather can impact the experience, especially during winter months.
• Ideal for travelers with moderate fitness levels comfortable with walking and some outdoor activity.

An Authentic Day on Taiwan’s Northeast Coast

This Instagram photo tour is geared towards those who love capturing beautiful moments while exploring Taiwan’s stunning coastline. It’s a full day of sightseeing, starting early at Taipei Main Station and winding through some of the most photogenic spots in New Taipei and Keelung. At $55 per person, the price invites a look at the value offered, especially considering the included transportation, guide, and geo-park entrance fee.

Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Bitou Cape Park – Coastal Cliffs and a Lighthouse

Your day begins with a visit to Bitou Cape, known locally as Beitoujiao. This rugged stretch of coast is famous for its dramatic cliffs and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. The highlight here is the Bitoujiao Lighthouse—a classic photo subject perched on the cliffs. Expect to spend about two hours here, hiking along the coastline and soaking in views. The natural beauty here is striking, with rocky formations carved by wind and waves, perfect for both landscape shots and peaceful reflection.

Based on reviews, visitors loved the spectacular scenery, with one reviewer mentioning that the views were “just as beautiful as expected,” although some noted that weather conditions could alter the experience. Be prepared for potentially brisk winds or overcast skies, especially in winter.

Bitou Fish Harbor – A Working Seaside Community

Next, you’ll visit Bitou Harbor, recognized as Taiwan’s southernmost harbor. It’s a lively spot for both fishing activities and seafood tasting. The local market is a great place to see traditional fishing life in action, with fresh catches and a chance to observe local vendors preparing seafood.

Expect about an hour here—ample time for photos of colorful boats, bustling market stalls, and perhaps grabbing a quick snack. Reviewers appreciated the authenticity, with one noting that it’s a great place to see real local life and buy fresh seafood.

Zhengbin Fishing Harbor and Its Colorful Houses

The iconic Colorful Street Houses at Zhengbin Harbor are a major social media hit. These brightly painted, tightly packed homes evoke the charm of Venice’s canals—just on a smaller, lively scale. Visitors often spend about 20 minutes here, taking pictures of the vibrant facades and the harbor’s lively atmosphere.

Reviews highlight how Instagram-worthy this spot truly is, and many visitors enjoyed the whimsical contrast between the colorful houses and the rugged coast. It’s a great location for those eyeing a bright, cheerful backdrop for their photos.

Heping Island GeoPark – Geology and Coastal Scenery

Heping Island, just 75 meters from the Taiwan mainland, is a geological wonderland. The park features volcanic rock formations, scenic coastal views, and intriguing landforms. Included in the tour fee is the entrance ticket to this geo-park, making it an accessible highlight for history and nature lovers.

Expect about an hour exploring dramatic cliffs, unique rock formations, and scenic viewpoints. Reviewers praise the fascinating geology and the chance to stand amidst ancient volcanic landscapes, adding a layer of educational fun to the scenic views.

Keelung Miaokou Night Market – Foodie Heaven

The tour culminates at the Keelung Miaokou Night Market—a culinary oasis famous for seafood, Taiwanese snacks, and street eats. Here, you’ll have about an hour to wander, taste, and snap photos of vibrant stalls. Must-try dishes include oyster omelets, Taiwanese sausages, and braised pork rice.

Many reviews highlight the quality and authenticity of the food. One traveler shared that their tour guide went out of his way to help her navigate food intolerances and even personally went to the kitchen to ensure her meal was gluten-free. This personal touch makes the experience more memorable and authentic.

Transportation and Group Size

You’ll travel comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle with a licensed guide. The tour can accommodate up to 40 travelers, and a professional driver may be part of the team, offering a smooth ride between stops. The round-trip shuttle from Taipei Main Station adds convenience, saving you from navigating public transport or parking.

The total duration is around 9 hours, including travel time between sites. It’s a full day but well-paced, with enough time at each stop to enjoy the scenery and take photos.

Practical Considerations and Tips

While this tour offers great value, it’s important to note that weather can impact the experience, especially during winter months. Several reviewers mentioned that rainstorms or strong winds can make certain activities challenging and even dangerous, as one guest recalled climbing over 2000 steps in a rainstorm. It’s wise to check the weather forecast and come prepared with appropriate clothing.

The tour is best suited for moderate physical fitness, given the walking involved at sites like Bitou Cape and Heping Island. While the itinerary is flexible, some attractions require walking on uneven terrain or climbing steps.

Price and Value Analysis

At $55 per person, this tour offers a cost-effective way to see a variety of scenic, cultural, and culinary highlights. The inclusion of transportation and entrance fees adds great value, especially for travelers who prefer a worry-free day without worrying about booking tickets separately.

Compared to the cost of private tours or self-guided exploration, this organized trip delivers a good balance between convenience and authentic experiences. However, keep in mind that food and drinks are not included, so budget accordingly if you plan to indulge at the night market.

Summary: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for Instagram enthusiasts, nature lovers, and culture seekers who want a comprehensive day exploring the northeast coast of Taiwan. It’s especially appealing if you prefer guided tours that handle logistics while allowing you to focus on photography and sightseeing. The mix of natural scenery, colorful harbors, and vibrant street life offers a well-rounded experience.

Travelers who enjoy actively exploring, snapping photos, and tasting local delicacies will find this tour rewarding. However, those sensitive to weather or with limited mobility should consider the potential for weather-related disruptions and the physical demands of some sites.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, an air-conditioned vehicle is provided for all transfers between sites, making the day comfortable and convenient.

What is the starting time?
The tour begins at 9:30 am from Taipei Main Station.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 9 hours, including travel time and site visits.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the fee for Heping Island GeoPark (TWD 120) is included in the tour price.

Can I join if I don’t have a lot of physical fitness?
The tour involves some walking and outdoor activity, so a moderate fitness level is recommended. Be prepared for uneven terrain and steps.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there will be opportunities to purchase local snacks, especially at Keelung Night Market.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can influence the experience, especially in winter. The tour follows safety regulations, and cancellations due to poor weather are possible.

How many people typically join the tour?
A maximum of 40 travelers can participate, making it a lively but manageable group.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, as long as children are comfortable with outdoor activity and walking. Always check with the provider if traveling with very young kids.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a camera or smartphone for photos, and some cash for snacks or souvenirs.

In essence, this Northeast Coast Instagram Photo Tour offers a thoughtful blend of scenery, culture, and local flavors that appeals to those wanting a memorable day exploring Taiwan’s northern shoreline. Whether you’re capturing Instagram-worthy shots or simply soaking in the views, it’s a good option for a balanced and enjoyable experience.