Jiufen is a mountain town in northeastern Taiwan, east of Taipei. It’s known for the narrow alleyways of its old town, packed with teahouses, street-food and souvenir shops.
This village is quite popular so it’s not a surprise to find crowds and waits to take decent photos. As suggestion, the best to visit this area is during weekdays to don’t get stuck into the crowds and have a decent walk through its narrow streets. Although during weekdays still a bit crowded but is bearable
The easiest way to get there from Taipei is by taking the bus 1062 (Keelung Bus) to Jinguashi and alight at Jiufen. The bus station is located outside of MRT Zhongxiao Fuxing Station (忠孝復興), Brown Line BR and Blue Line BL interchange at Exit 2. The ride is about 1 hour and the fare is NT$98
The other way is by train north to Ruifang Station and once there take the Keelung Transit bus towards Jiufen/Jinguashi. You can use EasyCard for both ways!
Which places can visit in Jiufen? I did the following!
1. Jiufen Old Streets
The most popular place that can’t be missed! Walk through its streets, try its food, snacks, bubble milk tea…stinky tofu..!
2. Hike Keelung Mountain
Hike Keelung mountain for a stunning landscapes of Jiufen and its surroundings. The Keelung Trail is about 10 minutes walking distance from the Old Streets and the hike takes about 30-45 minutes
3. Golden waterfalls 黃金瀑布
Since you are here, worth to have a look to these waterfalls. There is a shuttle bus from Jiufen to these waterfall every hour. Another way is by walking to this place. The walk takes about 40 minutes road down
4. YingYang Sea
Continuing road down you will pass by an old village and abandoned factories. The Yingyang Sea is about 5-10 minutes walking distance from the Golden Waterfalls and also worth to have a look since you are there! There is a bus station next to the road and the shuttle bus pass by there every hour. Please note that the bus has to be taken on the road way up! Can use EasyCard!
Enjoy your trip! 🙂
Note: As told by Taiwanese friends, this place is really beautiful at night, so if you have the chance to stay till late night, find a spot for landscape views and walk through the streets!
Travel Guide to destinations in Asia & Europe 