| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Transportation method | Transfer from meeting point |
| Minimum participant requirement | 2 travelers |
| Tour types | None |
| Meal arrangement | Lunch included |
| Sightseeing type | Natural sights |
| Transport | Charter car, Walking |
If there is a delay due to force majeure such as traffic conditions or weather, visits to some spots may be canceled. In this case, please contact customer service. We will process a partial refund based on our policy.
In the event of bad weather such as a typhoon or snowstorm, you will be notified by email one day before departure (20:30 local time) whether the trip will be cancelled or not.
To avoid delays, please arrive at the designated location 5 minutes early. We cannot wait for latecomers.
Taiwan experiences a lot of rain throughout the year, and sudden rainfall can occur especially between December and February. We recommend that you bring a folding umbrella with you when joining the tour.
Travelers can reach Jiufen and Shifen from Taipei by a combination of train and bus. Typically, you would take a train to Ruifang Station, then transfer to a local bus for Jiufen Old Street or a Pingxi Line train for Shifen. For a hassle-free experience covering both locations efficiently, many visitors opt for organized day tours that provide round-trip transportation, allowing more time to enjoy the sights without navigating transfers.
Jiufen is renowned for its charming, labyrinthine alleys, traditional teahouses, and vibrant street food scene. Its historic atmosphere, with red lanterns illuminating the narrow staircases, is often said to resemble scenes from Studio Ghibli's "Spirited Away," attracting many visitors. The village's rich mining history also contributes to its unique character and provides a glimpse into Taiwan's past.
For Shifen Waterfall itself, about 1 to 1.5 hours is generally sufficient to walk to the viewing platforms and enjoy the scenery. If you plan to visit Shifen Old Street afterward for sky lantern activities and local snacks, allocate an additional 1.5 to 2 hours. A total of 2.5 to 3.5 hours for the Shifen area allows for a relaxed and comprehensive visit.
Shifen Waterfall is often referred to as Taiwan's "Little Niagara" due to its impressive, wide curtain-like cascade. It is the largest waterfall in Taiwan by width, offering a majestic natural spectacle. The surrounding park provides well-maintained viewing platforms, allowing visitors to appreciate its powerful flow and lush greenery from various angles, making it a popular spot for photography and enjoying nature.
A common and recommended sequence for a day trip is to visit Shifen first, typically in the morning or early afternoon, to experience the waterfall and sky lantern activities. Afterward, head to Jiufen in the late afternoon. This allows you to explore Jiufen Old Street during daylight and then witness its magical transformation as the red lanterns illuminate the alleys at dusk, creating a picturesque ambiance.
Visitors to Jiufen Old Street can expect a unique sensory experience. It's a bustling hub filled with diverse street food, local handicrafts, and traditional teahouses offering panoramic mountain and sea views. Navigating the narrow, winding alleys and steep staircases evokes a nostalgic charm, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in a blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty.
Yes, sky lantern raising is a signature activity in Shifen. Visitors can purchase a large paper lantern, write their wishes or prayers on it, and then release it into the sky, often directly from the operational train tracks (under staff supervision). This activity symbolizes blessings and good fortune and is a memorable cultural experience, especially popular for couples and families.
Shifen Waterfall Park offers well-maintained pathways and several viewing platforms that provide excellent vantage points of the waterfall. The main entrance is accessible, and the walk to the primary viewing areas is generally easy to moderate. Facilities like restrooms and a small visitor center are available. It's advisable to wear comfortable shoes for walking around the park.