Planning to visit Jiufen? But aren’t sure what to do when you get there? Don’t worry! I’ve got you covered with this ultimate list of things to do in Jiufen, Taiwan – perfect for first-time visitors!
Nestled in the misty mountains of northern Taiwan, Jiufen is a charming destination – one that offers a glimpse into the country’s lively and enchanting culture.
Known for its narrow lantern-lit alleyways, historic tea houses, and sweeping coastal views, this magical town truly feels as if it belongs in a storybook.
In fact, many speculate that it was the inspiration for the famous anime film Spirited Away – although the director has denied these claims.
Regardless, there’s something undeniably mystical and almost otherworldly about this small town.
And despite the crowds – because it is a popular destination – I do think Jiufen is well worth visiting.
Whether you plan to spend a couple of days here or are simply looking to take a day trip (like I did!), I have no doubt that this magical town will captivate you at every turn.
That being said, let’s dive right in and uncover the best things to do in Jiufen, Taiwan!
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Best Time to Visit Jiufen
Like much of Taiwan, the best time to visit Jiufen is during the spring or fall.
This is when you’re likely to encounter the most pleasant weather with minimal rainfall and comfortable temperatures.
These “shoulder seasons” also tend to attract fewer crowds – which is definitely a bonus!
Aside from this, winter is another great option to consider, given the country’s cooler (but not too cold!) temperatures.
Just keep in mind, winter can be quite busy, especially around Chinese New Year.
And, finally, we have summer – which, honestly, I don’t really recommend.
Not only is the country hot, humid, and rainy this time of the year, it also tends to experience typhoons.
Generally speaking, Taiwan’s typhoon season runs from May to October. However, the most active months for storms are July, August, and September.
How to Get to Jiufen
Jiufen is tucked away in the mountains of New Taipei City, along Taiwan’s northeastern coast – about an hour outside of central Taipei.
Thanks to its close proximity to the capital, it’s a popular day trip destination for visitors and locals alike.
While there are a variety of ways to travel between the two cities, these are the most popular and convenient options:
- 🚌 Public Bus: Perfect for those traveling on a budget! The most direct buses available are Bus 965 (which departs from MRT Beiman Station) and Bus 1062 (which departs from Zhongxiao Fuxing Station). The ride takes about 1-1.5 hours, depending on traffic, and costs around NT$90-110 (about $3-4 USD).
- 🚖 Taxi or Uber: Great for comfort and flexibility! A one-way ride from central Taipei usually takes around 45 minutes to an hour and costs NT$1000-1500 (about $35-50 USD). Please note, Uber is the only major ride-share service you’ll find in Taiwan.
- 🚗 Private Charters: Ideal for those seeking comfort and customization! Private drivers are available for day trips to Jiufen and the surrounding area. Prices vary depending on the route and duration.
- 🚐 Guided Tour: Perfect if you prefer a hassle-free, structured experience! There are a variety of guided tours available – many of which include additional stops at nearby attractions like Shifen Waterfall or Yehliu Geopark. Prices vary depending on the selected tour.
I personally grabbed an Uber to Jiufen and took the bus back to Taipei. Both options were fairly easy to navigate. Although, the bus was quite crowded (standing room only) on the return trip.
Pro Tip: I used Google Maps to help me travel between Jiufen and Taipei. It’s super reliable and provides accurate, up-to-date information on the region’s local buses!
How to Get Around Jiufen
Once you arrive in Jiufen, you’ll find that it’s quite easy to get around.
The town is small, and the attractions are mostly clustered together, so walking is definitely the best way to go.
That said, Jiufen is built into the hillside, so expect plenty of steps and steep alleyways as you explore.
While the pathways aren’t overly difficult, it’s still something to be aware of. I recommend wearing comfortable shoes and taking your time, if needed.
Map of Jiufen
To help you plan your trip, here’s a map overview of all the places mentioned in this Jiufen travel guide.
To view an interactive version of this map, click here!
Best Things to Do in Jiufen, Taiwan
Without further ado, here’s the ultimate list of things to do in Jiufen – especially for first-time visitors!
Wander Along Jiufen Old Street
The town’s main claim to fame, Jiufen Old Street, is a windy, picturesque pedestrian lane that embodies the heart and soul of this mountain village.
Bursting with color, character, and mouthwatering smells, this lively street is home to a variety of small shops, traditional eateries, street food vendors, and beautifully preserved tea houses.
It’s a great place to pick up a few souvenirs. But, more than that, it’s the perfect spot to soak in the sights, sounds, and flavors of a traditional Taiwanese town.
Pro Tip: The area is especially beautiful at dusk, when the town’s red lanterns light up and cast a soft, dreamlike glow over the entire area.
Take in the Coastal Views
Aside from its rich cultural atmosphere, Jiufen is also known for its incredibly scenic vistas.
Thanks to its location high in the mountains, the town offers sweeping views of rugged coastlines, lush green hillsides, and the distant blue ocean below.
There are countless spots around town where you can stop to soak in the scenery. Simply wander around and you’re bound to stumble across a picture-perfect view.
Pro Tip: Remember – the higher you climb, the more rewarding the views become!
Check Out the Traditional Tea Houses
The famous A-Mei Tea House in Jiufen.
As you explore the streets of Jiufen, make sure to stop by one of the village’s many traditional tea houses.
These cozy spots, often perched on hillsides, are known for their peaceful atmosphere, classic wooden interiors, and delicious local tea.
While the most famous (and most photographed) is A-Mei Tea House, there are plenty of lesser-known spots that offer a quieter, more intimate experience.
So, don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path!
Even if you’re not a big tea drinker, I still recommend visiting a tea house, if for no other reason than to enjoy the atmosphere – or to take a break from the bustling streets outside.
Sample Local Taiwanese Cuisine
Whether you grab a bite to eat from a traditional tea house or from one of the many street food vendors, be sure to sample some of the local specialities!
From taro balls and dumplings to rice cakes, fish balls, braised pork, and ice cream rolls – there’s plenty to try as you wander along Jiufen’s lively streets.
You’re also likely to run into a variety of drink vendors, selling everything from fragrant oolong tea to freshly squeezed juices, specialty coffees, and the ever-popular boba milk tea.
Pro Tip: Be sure to have cash on hand! While larger establishments tend to accept credit cards, many of the small stalls are cash-only.
Discover Hidden Temples
Shengming Temple in Jiufen.
Jiufen may not be known for its temples, but there are actually quite a few of them scattered around town. And, they’re all incredibly beautiful!
Featuring intricate carvings, colorful roof tiles, and majestic guardian statues, these sacred spaces add a layer of history and spirituality to Jiufen’s already enchanting atmosphere.
One of my favorites to visit was Shengming Temple, which is located just off Jiufen Old Street.
Perched high on a hilltop, this peaceful spot offers incredible views overlooking the coast and is the perfect place to take a quiet break from the crowds.
Other temples worth mentioning include Fushan Temple, Xiahai City God Temple, and Jiufen Mingsheng Temple – each one beautiful in its own right.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye out as you explore Jiufen’s winding alleys. You’ll find temples tucked away in the most unexpected places!
Explore Jiufen’s Hiking Trails
Thanks to its scenic location in the mountains, Jiufen is home to some of northern Taiwan’s most scenic hiking trails.
Winding through lush hills and over rocky ridges, these trails reveal some of the most stunning coastal scenery in Taiwan.
While there are several routes to explore, two of the most popular include: Keelung Mountain Trail (which is known for its stunning sunrise views) and Teapot Mountain Trail (which offers dramatic rock formations and panoramic ridgelines).
No matter which path you choose, hiking around Juifen is the perfect way to escape the crowds, breathe in some fresh mountain air, and experience the area’s natural beauty.
Other Destinations Near Jiufen
Shifen Waterfall near Jiufen in Taiwan.
If you have extra time in your day, consider adding one of these nearby destinations to your Jiufen itinerary! They’re all easy to reach and offer a wealth of beautiful scenery and cultural experiences!
- Shifen Waterfall: Often referred to as “Taiwan’s Niagara Falls,” Shifen Waterfall lies just south of Jiufen, making it an easy and worthwhile detour. Measuring 20 meters tall and 40 meters wide, it is one of the largest and most powerful waterfalls in Taiwan, and quite a sight to behold.
- Yehliu Geopark: Famous for its bizarre and fascinating rock formations, Yehliu Geopark is a popular spot for photographers and geology lovers. Created by sea erosion over thousands of years, these natural sculptures resemble everything from mushrooms to candles – and even a queen’s head.
- Houtong Cat Village: A former coal mining town, Houtong is home to hundreds of friendly cats and quite a few feline-themed shops and cafes. It’s a fun, quirky, lighthearted stop, especially for animal lovers.
- Golden Waterfall: Situated near historic mining sites, the Golden Waterfall is most famous for its shimmering golden hue, caused by mineral deposits in the water. It’s a quick but scenic photo stop if you happen to be in the area.
- Heping Island: Nestled off the shores of Keelung, Heping Island is a beautiful coastal park known for its striking rock formations and peaceful ocean views. The island also features several tidal pools – making it an ideal spot to cool off and explore during the warm summer months.
- Keelung: A lively port city, Keelung is best known for its fresh seafood, scenic harbor views, and rich maritime history. It’s especially popular in the evenings, when its famous night market, Miaokou Night Market, comes alive with local flavors and energy.
Pro Tip: You can combine many of these destinations and visit them alongside Jiufen on a guided tour from Taipei.
A Quick Note on Shifen Old Street
Many visitors heading to Shifen Waterfall also stop by Shifen Old Street – a historic area known for its tradition of releasing wish-filled lanterns. While this experience may seem charming at first, it’s important to consider the environmental impact it carries.
Each day, thousands of lanterns are launched into the sky – many of which are never retrieved. They often end up tangled in trees or scattered across the landscape, polluting the environment and posing a serious hazard to local wildlife. In some cases, they’ve even sparked fires in nearby villages.
Although efforts have been made to implement more environmental-friendly alternatives, the risks still remains high. Because of this, I personally chose to skip this activity – and encourage others to consider more sustainable ways to engage with the local culture.
An Ideal Jiufen Day Trip Itinerary
If you’re planning a do-it-yourself day trip from Taipei, here’s a simple and flexible itinerary to help you make the most of your visit:
- 8:00 AM – Depart Taipei: Catch an early bus, taxi, or Uber to maximize your time in Jiufen. The journey typically takes about an hour, depending on traffic.
- 9:00 to 9:30 AM – Arrive in Jiufen + Enjoy the Quiet Streets: Explore Jiufen before the crowds arrive. While most shops won’t be open just yet, it’s a great opportunity to wander the streets and snap a few photos.
- 10:00 AM – Explore Jiufen Old Street: Once things start to open up, head over to the main street to shop for souvenirs, sample some street food, and soak in the lively atmosphere.
- 12:00 PM – Grab Lunch at a Traditional Tea House: Take a break and grab a bite to eat at one of Jiufen’s scenic tea houses. While you’re there, don’t forget to order a cup of locally brewed tea and take in the hillside views.
- 1:30 PM – Choose Your Adventure: You can either spend your afternoon hiking the trails near Jiufen, visiting nearby spots like Shifen Waterfall, or you can continue exploring Jiufen’s hidden temples and alleyways.
- 5:00 PM – Head Back to Taipei: Make your way back to the city by bus, taxi, or Uber, just in time for dinner in the city.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Jiufen in Taiwan
Here are my thoughts on some commonly asked questions about planning a trip to Jiufen.
Why is Jiufen Famous?
Jiufen is most famous for its unique blend of history, culture, and stunning scenery. From its nostalgic lantern-lit alleyways and traditional architecture to its sweeping mountain and coastal views, this former gold mining town offers an atmosphere that feels almost frozen in time. Add in the fact that many believe the town holds close ties to the beloved anime Spirited Away, and it’s easy to see how this small mountain town has gained international appeal.
Is Jiufen Worth Visiting?
Yes, Jiufen is absolutely worth visiting – at least once! While it can be a bit crowded and touristy at times, its charm, scenery, and cultural richness more than make up for it. Not to mention, there are so many fun and exciting things to do in Jiufen. From delicious street food and charming tea houses to ornate temples and scenic hiking trails – there’s something for everyone to enjoy here!
How Long Should I Spend in Jiufen?
Most people travel from Taipei to Jiufen on a day trip, which honestly gives you more than enough time to see the major highlights. With a full day, you can stroll through Jiufen Old Street, visit a traditional tea house, sample the local street food, and even check out a hiking trail or make a quick stop at a nearby attraction. That said, if you prefer a slower pace or plan to do extensive hiking, it’s probably best to stay overnight. Not only will you have more time to explore, but you’ll also get to experience the town after the day-trip crowds have cleared out.
What Time Do Things Open in Jiufen?
While Jiufen Old Street is technically open 24/7, most shops, restaurants, and tea houses don’t begin operating until 10:00 AM. This means, if you arrive early enough, you might be able to get a glimpse of Jiufen without the crowds. Just keep in mind you’ll likely need to wait a bit before everything is fully up and running. In regard to closure times, most establishments begin closing down between 7:00 and 9:00 PM.
Is Jiufen Colder than Taipei?
Generally speaking, Jiufen is slightly cooler than central Taipei due to its higher elevation and coastal location in the mountains. While the temperature difference isn’t drastic by any means, you can typically expect Jiufen to feel a few degrees cooler – especially early in the morning and in the evening. That said, Jiufen enjoys warm weather year-round, with temperatures rarely dropping below 50°F (10°C).
Where Should I Stay in Jiufen?
If you plan to stay the night in Jiufen, I’d recommend choosing a hotel near Jiufen Old Street. This will give you easy access to all of the area’s attractions. Plus, you’ll likely have great views right from your bedroom window! While I didn’t stay overnight myself, a few popular places that I’ve heard of include: Daybreak, Sunshine B&B, and Jiufen The Dragon B&B.
Final Thoughts: Best Things to Do in Jiufen
So there you have it – my complete guide on the best things to do in Jiufen. Hopefully, this article is helpful in planning your own trip to this enchanting town.
No matter what you decide to do, I’m sure you’ll have an unforgettable time. After all, Jiufen is a truly magical destination, one that offers the unique opportunity to fully immerse yourself in local Taiwanese culture.
Are you planning to visit Jiufen? If so, what are you most excited to do? Let me know in the comments below!!
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KRYSTI ATKINSON
Krysti is a travel writer currently based in Okinawa, Japan. Over the past 3+ years, she has explored Japan extensively while traveling throughout Asia – from iconic cities to quiet, off-the-beaten-path destinations. Through Wanderful Horizons, Krysti shares detailed itineraries, practical travel tips, and firsthand recommendations to help travelers plan unforgettable adventures.
Never heard of this place before today! But it seems like something I would be into
It’s a really fun and unique place to visit! I highly recommend checking it out if you ever get the chance to!
Great post! Jiufen looks like such a charming place. Do you recommend visiting during the day or at night for the best experience?
Ideally, I recommend doing both, if possible. That said, it really depends on what type of experience you’re looking for! If you’d like to visit the local restaurants and shops, it’s best to visit during the day when they are all still open. But, if you’d prefer a more quieter experience – one where you can snap a few photos without the crowds, then night or early morning would be best.
I may not ever get the chance to visit, but I love learning about unique places like this! Jiufen sounds absolutely magical, and it’s so fun discovering the stories and charm behind towns like these. Love the photos!
Thank you!! It is such a magical spot, definitely worth the hype, despite the crowds!