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  6. Houtong Cat Village & Shifen Sky Lantern Half-Day Tour (Japanese Guide) - Taipei Afternoon Departure
Product #145204
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A ginger and brown cat with closed eyes comfortably resting on a stone wall in Houtong Cat Village, showcasing the relaxed feline life in this charming village.
Distinctive cat cutouts and a cat-themed 'Houtong Station' sign at Houtong Cat Village, welcoming visitors to this feline-filled village in Taiwan.
The unique Golden Waterfall near Houtong, where mineral-rich water flows over rocks, creating a distinctive orange-red hue, a striking natural wonder in Taiwan.
A calico cat casually strolling on a wooden boardwalk in Houtong Cat Village, its relaxed posture reflecting the playful and tranquil life of cats in this unique Taiwanese destination.
Visitors writing wishes on a vibrant red sky lantern during the Shifen Sky Lantern Festival experience, symbolizing hope and blessings as they prepare to release it into the sky.

Houtong Cat Village & Shifen Sky Lantern Half-Day Tour (Japanese Guide) - Taipei Afternoon Departure

Taiwan-New Taipei City , Taitung , Pingxi , Taipei , Ruifang District , Shifen , Houtong Cat Village
Booking confirmed 4 day(s) after ordering
Duration:6 hour(s)
Guided language: Japanese
Free cancellation 4 day(s) prior to experience date
Please present the e-voucher on-site
  • A must for cat lovers! Visit the cat-filled Houtong Cat Village!
  • Discover the 13-Layer Remains, known as the 'Castle in the Sky'!
  • Includes Shifen sky lantern release!

★Check here for more popular Japanese-guided day tours in Taiwan＞＞

[5% App discount] Code: APP5OFF , HK: APP15HK

Sightseeing Tours

Tour TypeShared tour
Departure TimeLate Departure (After 9 am)
Sightseeing typeNatural sights
TransportBus tour

Product Info

A dream come true for cat lovers! Embark on a healing journey to 'Houtong', famous as a 'Cat Village', where you will be surrounded by many cats. On the bus ride, we will introduce the 13-Layer Remains, known as the 'Castle in the Sky'. We will also visit the unique Golden Waterfall, famous for its rare color caused by mineral-rich water flowing from the mines. After the waterfall, we head to Houtong, the home of the cats. You never know where these whimsical cats might be—grooming each other, sunbathing on roofs, or hiding behind signs. Be sure to meet as many cats as you can. Finally, we will release sky lanterns for your wishes at Shifen Old Street! Join this cat-lover tour through the Pingxi area of Taipei. Come and play with the adorable cats!

Important Info

Reminders

  • Please use the sightseeing times as a guide only.

  • Entry to the Thirteenth Floor ruins is prohibited, so you will have to view it from a little distance away.

  • For safety reasons, we do not recommend touching the cats at Cat Village.

  • Your guide will be wearing an orange vest with the word "Narwant" printed on it.

Cancellation Policy

  • Cancellations 4 day(s) (inclusive) before the selected date are allowed. Unused orders can be canceled for free
  • Cancellation is not allowed between 0–3 days from the selected date. Orders cannot be canceled or modified, and refunds will not be granted.
NOTE
  • Due to time zone differences, the confirmed cancellation date is based on the supplier’s local time. Please allow 2–5 business days to process your cancellation request, after which the cancellation fee will be charged according to the product’s cancellation policy. Once your refund request is confirmed, KKday will initiate the refund to your original payment method within 15 days. The actual refund timing depends on your card-issuing bank’s policy.

FAQ

1. Is Houtong Cat Village a suitable destination for cat lovers and first-time visitors to Taiwan?

Houtong Cat Village is indeed a charming and unique destination, especially for cat lovers. It offers a chance to observe numerous friendly cats roaming freely in a quaint village setting, which is a rare experience. First-time visitors to Taiwan will find it a delightful cultural experience, blending local charm with animal interaction. The village is well-maintained with cat-themed decor, cafes, and shops, making it an enjoyable half-day excursion.

2. What kind of interaction opportunities are available with the cats at Houtong Cat Village?

Visitors to Houtong Cat Village can typically interact with the resident cats by observing them in their natural habitat, taking photos, and in some cases, gently petting them if they approach. There are designated feeding stations, and it's recommended to purchase cat-friendly treats from local shops to feed them safely and responsibly. The cats are generally accustomed to human presence, offering a unique opportunity for close-up encounters.

3. How can visitors travel to Houtong Cat Village from Taipei for a half-day tour?

For a convenient half-day tour, visitors typically travel from Taipei to Houtong Cat Village by comfortable tour bus or van, often as part of an organized package. Alternatively, one can take a local train from Taipei Main Station directly to Houtong Station, which is located right within the village. The train journey offers scenic views and takes approximately an hour.

4. How close is Houtong Cat Village to other popular attractions like Jiufen, and can they be visited together?

Houtong Cat Village is geographically close to other popular Northern Taiwan attractions, including Jiufen Old Street and Shifen. It is very common and recommended to visit them together as part of a half-day or full-day itinerary. Many tours combine these locations due to their proximity, allowing visitors to experience the cat village, the historic streets of Jiufen, and the sky lantern tradition of Shifen efficiently.

5. What is the experience like for raising sky lanterns in Shifen during a half-day tour?

Raising sky lanterns in Shifen is a deeply cultural and memorable experience. Visitors write wishes and messages on a large paper lantern before releasing it into the sky over the old railway tracks. This activity is often accompanied by local guides who assist with the process and explain the significance. It offers fantastic photo opportunities and a moment of reflection, symbolizing hope and good fortune.

6. What is significant about the thirteen-story ruins, also known as "Castle in the Sky," included in the tour?

The thirteen-story ruins, often referred to as "Castle in the Sky," are a historic site near Houtong, showcasing the remnants of a former copper and gold ore sorting plant from Taiwan's mining era. While visitors cannot enter the structure for safety, its massive, decaying facade against the mountainous backdrop offers a dramatic and photogenic scene. It represents a poignant piece of local industrial heritage and provides a unique visual contrast to the cat village.

7. What kind of historical or cultural insights does a Japanese guide provide about Houtong Cat Village and Shifen?

A Japanese guide enhances the tour experience by offering detailed historical and cultural context for Houtong Cat Village and Shifen, catering to Japanese-speaking visitors. They can explain the transformation of Houtong from a mining town to a cat haven, elaborate on the traditions behind Shifen sky lanterns, and share local anecdotes. This depth of information provides a richer understanding beyond what is visible, connecting visitors to the local stories and significance of each site.

8. What kind of activities can visitors expect during the Houtong Cat Village and Shifen half-day tour?

During the Houtong Cat Village and Shifen half-day tour, visitors can expect to spend time interacting with cats and exploring cat-themed shops in Houtong. In Shifen, the main activity is the memorable sky lantern raising, where wishes are written and released. The tour also typically includes scenic drives through the northern Taiwan landscape, often passing by the impressive thirteen-story ruins for a visual appreciation of its historical significance.

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