Keelung is a multicultural city, bringing in residents from Japan, China, the Philippines, and Indonesia. A diverse and culturally broad population can breathe new life into a city and introduce a mix of perspectives, cultures and cuisines, all of which create a varied and exciting cityscape.
Rowena was born and raised in the Philippines but has spent the last 27 years of her life in the city she loves, Keelung. Her restaurant and grocery store, Whengs Pinoy, boasts a broad range of Filipino snacks and treats and her accompanying restaurant serves everything from chop suey and sisig to pinakbet and fried fish. As a friendly and familiar face, Rowena brings a unique perspective to Keelung.
Name: Rowena
Job: Local Business Owner, Whengs Pinoy
"Keelung has seen a lot of change. Five years ago, everything started to become even more beautiful."
What makes Keelung unique?
Keelung City is different because it has Keelung Harbor. So when people come here, they feel it’s very beautiful with the sea nearby; Keelung Harbor is something other places don’t have.
What place in Keelung holds special memories for you?
Waimushan. In the past, whenever my husband and I had things to do, we would go to Waimushan in Keelung. We also got into the habit of going there in the morning to walk and exercise. Waimushan is really beautiful, the scenery is great and the walking paths are wide, so you can walk around for an hour easily. The air really is very nice because it’s right by the sea.
What is something people might not know about Keelung?
People might not know how convenient it is. With the highway, it’s easy to get around and to shop, and tourist spots are also very accessible. There are so many beautiful places in Keelung, all are easy to get to.
How has Keelung changed in your recent memory?
Keelung has seen a lot of change. In my opinion, Keelung started to change significantly about five years ago. Five years ago, the Keelung Train Station changed, and the Keelung Bus Station changed too. The Maritime Plaza also changed a lot, and now it’s become even more beautiful.
Fancy trying some Filipino cuisine in Keelung? You’ll find Rowena at Whengs Pinoy.
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