Li Ya Xin, born and raised in Keelung. She is 34 years old this year. She is an art teacher and opened an art studio for both children and adults to explore and refine their artistic skills.
Name: Lee Ya Shin
Job: Art Teacher
"Keelung's shops can appear quite old, but the older it looks the nicer the food tastes."
What makes Keelung unique?
Slow paced, have its own pace despite its proximity to Taipei, it has its own spirit.
Dense population, walk a few steps will encounter people you already know.
Though not as prosperous as other big cities, it has its own appeal and poignant elegance.
It is very walkable and you can get everything done at one go without the need to drive.
Keelung has taxis everywhere and there’s a ride sharing tradition where people staying in different districts can share a cab to get to their respective destinations to split the cost. This option is also available today at Guomen Square, where those who are interested can hail a ride-sharing cab at a designated spot.
What is something people might not know about Keelung?
Most of my friends might have the impression that Keelung is very far away from Taipei, like a distant underdeveloped city. They think that getting from Taipei to Danshui is faster than from Taipei to Keelung. However, that’s not true, as the public transport here is very modern and efficient – Taipei and Keelung are actually very near and I can actually reach home within 20 mins!
What place in Keelung holds special memories for you?
I used to feel that Keelung is very grey and dark as it is raining everyday. It is hard to imagine how prosperous Keelung used to be. My mum mentioned that everyone used to come to Keelung to find a job - my dad came from Jinshan, while my mum’s family all moved from Taipei to Keelung.
Where will you bring your friend if they only have one day in Keelung?
I will recommend that they visit Wei Tuo Hang (consignment stores) and Kanziding Fish Market, which sells freshly caught fish that you can purchase directly. When I was young, there was the perception that imported Japanese goods were highly desirable. We will go into the little alleys full of consignment shops selling exotic items and high-end clothing. During the festive period, my parents will bring me there to pick out gifts.
Some of my favourite food are housed at An Le Market. I love Xin Fang Dou Hua (beancurd), which is only sold in the morning. Even when compared to Taipei’s famous stores, I feel that it is the best tasting dou hua. Outside the market, there’s a shop called Bei Fang Dan Lu Bing, which I also love. Though its pretty oily, it is very satisfying and tastes really good. Keelung’s shops can appear quite old, but the older it looks the nicer the food tastes.
Did Keelung change in your memory?
I feel that it has been largely unchanged throughout my life, up till around 5-6 years ago, where the government made improvements to enhance the space around Maritime Plaza. Once claustrophobic and grey, the strategic removal of some structures, such as the overhead bridge and external power lines, made it more open, bright and spacious. My mom recounted that Guomen Square was their childhood swimming pool and they could take a dip from West Pier. When my friend first came to Keelung, she felt like a scene inside Tomb Raider.
Previously, the train station was quite scary and the sanitary standards weren’t very good, however now it is much better.
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