Jiufen, Taiwan: A Must-Visit Day Trip from Taipei
Jiufen Taiwan is one of the most popular day trips from Taipei city. This enchanting town is a perfect blend of history, nostalgia, shopping, and sightseeing, making it incredibly easy to reach from Taipei.
Renowned for its resemblance to the village from the film Spirited Away, this mountain town attracts crowds of tourists eager to explore Jiufen Old Street, which boasts numerous souvenir shops, tea houses, and delightful restaurants.
This travel guide will detail how to reach Jiufen town, highlight the best day tour packages, and outline essential sights and activities to enjoy during your visit!
What Is Jiufen Taiwan?
Jiufen Taiwan is an old seaside gold mining town that eventually transformed into a ghost town. Its fame surged thanks to its connections with acclaimed Japanese animated films like City of Sadness and Spirited Away.
This town, also known as Jioufen or Chiufen, saw a revival spurred by tourism in the 1990s, attracting countless visitors drawn to its vibrant street markets, delicious food, tea options, and picturesque photo spots.
While most travelers opt for a day trip from Taipei, those wishing to linger can find a variety of charming guesthouses.
Things To Do In Jiufen Taiwan
- Jiufen Old Street: Explore the bustling street markets filled with cafes, souvenirs, and an array of delicious street food. Must-try dishes include braised pork rice, squid kabobs, mango ice cream, taro balls, Japanese mochi, and Taiwanese bubble tea.
- A-Mei Teahouse: This renowned teahouse, with its charming windows and paper lanterns, is an iconic sight in Jiufen. To savor tea there, it’s advisable to plan ahead.
- Qipao Rental: For a memorable experience, rent a traditional Chinese dress in Jiufen. It’s a fantastic way to capture beautiful photographs amid the scenic backdrop.
- Golden Waterfall: Visit this unique waterfall, known for its striking orange rocks, located just 10 minutes from Juifang. Many Jiufen tour packages include this highlight.
- Teapot Mountain Hike: If time permits, embark on this breathtaking hike along the coast. The trail begins at the nearby Jinguashi Gold Ecological Museum and takes approximately four hours to complete.
How To Get To Jiufen Taiwan
Located approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) east of Taipei city, Jiufen is accessible through several convenient travel options.
Travelers can reach Jiufen by taxi, private car charter, public transportation, or various day tour packages.
• By Taxi
A one-way taxi ride to Jiufen typically costs between 1,200-1,400 TWD ($40-50 USD) and takes about 45 minutes from Taipei.
• By Private Car Charter
For 3,100 TWD ($105 USD), travelers can arrange a private car charter which is especially cost-effective for groups. This option allows you to split costs while the driver remains at your service throughout the day.
• By Train & Bus
Travelers can take the train from Taipei Main Station to Ruifang Station and then catch a bus to Jiufen. This journey typically lasts about one hour and costs around 65 TWD (50 TWD for the train and 15 TWD for the bus).
• Best Jiufen Tour From Taipei
A highly regarded Jiufen day tour by bus from Taipei starts at 450 TWD ($15 USD) per person, offering a full day of breathtaking sights, including Yehliu Geopark, Shifen Waterfall, and the Houtong Cat Village.
This tour provides ample time to explore each location, making it a popular choice among visitors.
Where To Stay In Jiufen
Final Thoughts on Visiting Jiufen Taiwan
Thank you for exploring these travel tips for visiting the ‘spirited away’ village and Jiufen Old Street in Taiwan. For additional insights, consider checking out a comprehensive travel guide for more information and stunning photos!
