Xinyi District is situated in the heart of Keelung City and is home to numerous administrative offices and educational institutions, including the prestigious Keelung Girls' Senior High School. This has contributed to the district's reputation as a cultural district. In comparison to other areas in Keelung, Xinyi District boasts fewer tourist attractions, which enhances its connection to everyday life through its vibrant traditional markets and residential communities that prioritize quality of life. If given the opportunity to live in Keelung, Xinyi District would undoubtedly be my first choice!
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◦ The History of Xinyi
Speaking of Xinyi, it is important to highlight the history of Keelung. In the past, when people from the coastal regions of Fujian, China, sailed near northern Taiwan, they noticed a small hill on Heping Island off the coast of Keelung that resembled a chicken coop when viewed from the sea. This observation led to Heping Island being called "Keelung Mountain" and the mainland as "Keelung Head." By the Ming Dynasty, "Keelung " referred to the entire area of Keelung.
After Taiwan's retrocession, the Xinyi District was named after the characters for "faith" (信) and "righteousness" (義). Keelung, as the first landing site of foreign colonial powers, became heavily fortified, with the highest density of hilltop cannons in Taiwan. The Gangziliao Fort is one of these significant historical sites.
01｜Keelung's Ancient Cannon
At the end of the Qing Dynasty, a batch of Armstrong's Rifled Breech Loaders, cast in the UK in 1887, was purchased to strengthen the defenses of strategic locations such as Keelung and Penghu. One of these cannons was relocated to the vicinity of the Keelung Shrine’s Torii during the Japanese occupation. After World War II, the cannon was moved to Zhongxiao Pavilion in Zhongzheng Park. In 1968, it was gifted to the National Defense University in Dazhi, Taipei, and in 1993, it was returned to Keelung, where it currently resides in Meiyuan, now known as Yizheng Park.
➤ Photo credits and textual references:午夜懷舊雜譚
◦ Attractions in Xinyi
01｜Gangziliao Fort
Gangziliao Fort, a well-preserved national historic site, is situated on a mountain at the border of Xinyi District and Zhongzheng District. The fort encompasses a vast area, with remnants of barracks, storage rooms, and howitzer emplacements.
The name "Gangziliao" originates from the Ketagalan language, where "gangzi" means "trap," aptly reflecting the sensation of being surrounded by the dense forest as you enter the area.
However, any slight fear of being "trapped" quickly dissipates when you reach the highest point. From this vantage point, you can enjoy sweeping views of Heping Island, Badouzi, and Keelung Islet. On clear days, it is said that you can even catch a glimpse of Taipei 101!
Gangziliao Fort Ln. 141, Jiaozhong St., Xinyi Dist., Keelung
02｜Yinmeng Lake
Not far from Gangziliao Fort lies Yinmeng Lake, a hidden gem nestled behind the community. The lake was originally formed in a depression created by changes in the landscape and later became a barrier lake as spring water flowed in continuously. When developers began construction nearby, they invited actress Terry Hu (胡茵夢) to cut the ribbon at the opening ceremony, giving the lake its poetic name, "Yinmeng Lake." Aerial shots reveal that the lake’s scenery harmonizes unexpectedly with the nearby Fuhai Temple, adding a touch of spiritual charm to the already picturesque landscape.
Yinmeng Lake No. 10, Ln. 9, Jiaoxiao St., Xinyi Dist., Keelung
03｜Yizheng Park
Located on a hill on the eastern side of Keelung Harbor, Yizheng Park exudes an air of faded grandeur, with overgrown weeds contributing to its sense of age and neglect. However, this park is significant as the first in Taiwan to showcase a collection of decommissioned military equipment from the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Visitors can discover both historical artifacts, such as century-old cannons, and more contemporary military weaponry.
The park's most historically valuable piece is an Armstrong Rifled Breech Loader. This rare large cannon is one of the few remaining from the Qing era and the only authentic cannon left among Keelung's forts. However, compared to old photographs, the cannon has lost some of its historical patina due to a recent repainting, which has somewhat diminished its original weathered charm.
Yizheng Park Shoushan Rd., Xinyi Dist., Keelung
04｜Xinyi Market
Built in 1973, Xinyi Market exudes a strong sense of nostalgia, both in its exterior and interior. The first floor is bustling with vendors selling fruits, vegetables, and various snacks, while the second floor is primarily dedicated to fresh meat.
Situated near residential areas, the market becomes a vibrant hub for cooking enthusiasts on weekends, with crowds so dense that finding a parking spot can be a real challenge. The vibrant atmosphere of the market, fueled by heavy foot traffic and numerous business opportunities, is so lively that you might even encounter someone distributing flyers while exclaiming, "Are you looking to buy a house?" It makes one wonder if anyone has ever experienced a dramatic moment where they came to buy groceries but ended up purchasing a house instead!
Xinyi Market Opening Hours: 0630-1300, closed on Monday. No. 204, Xin 2nd Rd., Xinyi Dist., Keelung
◦ Restaurants and Snacks in Xinyi
01｜Korean Dazhong Squid Potage Soup
A friend of mine, a swimming enthusiast who grew up in Keelung, told me that every time he leaves the swimming pool, he stops by Korean Dazhong Squid Potage Soup across the street for a bowl of thick soup before heading home. However, due to the soaring price of dried Argentine squid, they no longer serve squid potage soup and have switched to offering pork thick soup instead.
As far as pork thick soup is concerned, the shop is generous with the meat, which is tender and easy to chew. The addition of savory and slightly sweet satay sauce creates a flavor combination that I find particularly delightful.
Korean Dazhong Squid Potage Soup Opening Hours: 0900-2200 No. 33, Xin 2nd Rd., Xinyi Dist., Keelung
02｜Hong Ji Kway Teow
"Kway teow soup" is a staple of Keelung’s breakfast scene, and Hong Ji Kway Teow, with three locations in Keelung and over 50 years of history, is a well-known spot. The Xinyi branch, which operates 24/7, is particularly popular among truck drivers!
Made from glutinous rice, Kway Teow is translucent and chewy, paired with pork intestines that have no off-putting odor, and a broth simmered from pork bones, resulting in a dish with a rich texture and flavor. It is a hearty yet not overly greasy option, perfect for a morning meal. The blanched greens served afterward were topped with a generous amount of fried shallots. For fried shallot enthusiasts, this side dish enhances the overall dining experience and satisfaction.
Hong Ji Kway Teow Opening Hours: 24/7 No. 93, Xin 1st Rd., Xinyi Dist., Keelung
◦ Flying Over Taiwan
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