What to wear and bring
We recommend bringing a folding umbrella and raincoat in case of sudden changes in the weather.
Some stores in tourist areas do not accept credit cards, so we recommend that you bring some cash with you.
Jiufen's charm truly comes alive at night when its iconic red lanterns illuminate the old street, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. You can wander through the bustling streets, soak in the nostalgic ambiance, savor local delicacies, or relax in a teahouse while admiring the mountain city's night views. Areas around A-Mei Tea House and Shengping Theater are popular spots for night photography, perfect for capturing memorable moments.
For the best experience of Jiufen's night view on New Year's Eve, we recommend arriving in the early evening, typically between 5 PM and 7 PM. This is when the sky begins to darken, the lanterns start to glow, and you can witness the magical interplay of the fading sunset and Jiufen's unique mountainous night scenery. This timing is especially special on New Year's Eve.
Most shops on Jiufen Old Street typically start closing around 7 PM to 8 PM. However, some specialty establishments offering dining or tea services, such as A-Mei Tea House, may extend their operating hours later on New Year's Eve, allowing visitors to continue enjoying Jiufen's charm into the night. It's advisable to plan your visit accordingly and make the most of your time.
Releasing sky lanterns in Shifen on New Year's Eve is a highly meaningful activity. Please pay close attention to safety instructions and comply with local regulations in the designated sky lantern release areas. Sky lanterns often come with different colored paper surfaces, each representing a different wish; you can learn about these beforehand to make your selection. When releasing, ensure the lantern ascends fully and keep it clear of buildings and power lines for safety.
For viewing the Taipei 101 New Year's Eve fireworks, this tour has arranged special seating at a designated restaurant near Taipei 101. This allows you to enjoy spectacular fireworks illuminating the Taipei skyline from a comfortable, warm environment while savoring exquisite cuisine, avoiding the crowds and hassle of being outdoors.
For the dinner options in Jiufen included in the itinerary, Koso Restaurant is renowned for its refined Taiwanese cuisine, blending local ingredients with traditional flavors for a multi-layered taste experience. Shin'yu Canteen, on the other hand, is known for its cozy, home-style ambiance and authentic Jiufen snacks like taro balls and mugwort dumplings, offering you a taste of local culinary culture.
During this New Year's Eve itinerary, Jiufen is typically visited first, allowing ample time to experience the mountain city's night views and enjoy dinner, with an estimated stay of about 2 to 3 hours. Afterward, we proceed to Shifen for sky lantern release, with a stay of approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, ensuring you can fully enjoy the fun of releasing lanterns. Exact timings may be adjusted based on traffic conditions that day.
Participating in a Jiufen night tour on New Year's Eve offers a significantly more festive and celebratory atmosphere. In addition to Jiufen's unique nocturnal romance, there's an added sense of welcoming the new year and experiencing the joy of the holiday season. Releasing sky lanterns in Shifen allows you to send your best wishes for the new year, and the Taipei 101 fireworks provide a grand finale, making it a distinctive New Year's Eve experience.