Jiufen Old Street
Step into a lantern-lit mountain village where tea houses cling to cliffs, alleyways wind through red lanterns, and every corner feels like a scene from a Studio Ghibli film.
Why Visit Jiufen
Jiufen (九分) was once a booming gold mining town during the Japanese era. Today, it is one of Taiwan's most beloved day trip destinations. The Old Street is a maze of narrow lanes lined with red lanterns, tea houses, street food stalls, and craft shops. The village cascades down the mountainside, offering dramatic views of the North Coast and the Pacific Ocean.
Lantern Alleyways
The iconic red lanterns that line Shuqi Road create one of the most photogenic streets in Taiwan. Best visited at dusk.
Cliffside Tea Houses
Sip Taiwanese oolong while overlooking the misty mountains and the sea at legendary spots like the Jiufen Teahouse.
Gold Rush History
Visit the Gold Museum in nearby Jinguashi to learn about the mining boom that built this village.
How to Get to Jiufen
| Route | From | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus 1062 | Zhongxiao Fuxing MRT | ~90 min | ~NT$100 |
| Bus 965 | Taipei Main Station | ~60 min | ~NT$80 |
| Train + Bus | TR to Ruifang, then bus 788/1062 | ~70 min | ~NT$60 |
| Private Car | Direct from Taipei | ~45 min | Variable |
Tip: Buses can be crowded on weekends. Depart early (before 9 AM) for a smoother ride and fewer crowds.
Top Things to Do in Jiufen
Shuqi Road (Lantern Alley)
The most famous stretch of Jiufen. Hundreds of red lanterns hang above stone steps, creating a magical atmosphere after sunset.
Jiufen Teahouse
A historic tea house with carved wood interiors and panoramic views. Order a pot of high-mountain oolong and enjoy the mist.
A-Mei Tea House
Perched on the cliff edge, this tea house is said to have inspired the bathhouse in Spirited Away. Stunning views day and night.
Street Food Sampling
Try taro balls (芋圓), peanut ice cream rolls, glutinous rice cakes, and fish ball soup from the vendors along the Old Street.
Practical Tips
Best Time to Visit
- ✓ Weekday mornings: Fewer crowds, easier to navigate the narrow lanes.
- ✓ Golden hour & evening: The lanterns glow beautifully after sunset.
- ✓ Avoid rainy days: The stone steps can become slippery.
What to Bring
- ✓ Comfortable walking shoes with good grip.
- ✓ Cash — many vendors do not accept cards.
- ✓ A light jacket — the mountain can be cool and misty.
Jiufen Quick Facts
~90 min
Travel time from Taipei
Free
Old Street entry
Evening
Best time for lanterns
Cash
Most vendors accept
Nearby Attractions
Jinguashi Gold Museum
Just down the mountain from Jiufen, this museum explores Taiwan's gold mining history. You can touch the world's largest gold bar.
Learn more →Houtong Cat Village
A former mining village now home to hundreds of friendly cats. A fun stop on the Pingxi Railway before reaching Jiufen.
Learn more →Yehliu Geopark
Famous for the Queen's Head rock formation and coastal hoodoos. A perfect coastal complement to your mountain day trip.
Learn more →Why Jiufen Captivates Visitors
Jiufen is more than a picturesque village — it is a living museum of Taiwan's layered history. The Japanese-era buildings, the teahouse culture, and the gold mining legacy create a depth of character that keeps visitors returning. The village's location on the mountainside, with the sea visible in the distance, creates an atmosphere that feels both timeless and magical, especially as the red lanterns light up at dusk.
Continue Your Taipei Adventure
Pair Jiufen with Shifen and the Pingxi Railway for a full-day journey through Taiwan's mountain and railway heritage.