Jiufen - Discovering Taiwan

Travelling to Jiufen

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Jiufen, a pretty good destination in Taiwan (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Jiufen and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Jiufen, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Taiwan, here's everything to know about Jiufen for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Jiufen

Jiufen is a small mountain town located in Taiwan, near the north-eastern coast. It is known for its stunning views of the mountains and the ocean, as well as its narrow streets, lined with traditional shops and tea houses. The town is famous for its distinct architecture, which reflects its mining history and Japanese colonial past. Jiufen is also popular for its night market, where visitors can sample local street food and shop for souvenirs. Due to its picturesque scenery and cultural significance, Jiufen has become a popular tourist destination and a must-visit location in Taiwan.

What to visit in Jiufen

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Jiufen, Taiwan and some information about each one: 1. Jiufen Old Street - This historic street is filled with shops and restaurants and is famous for its delicious street food and traditional tea houses. The narrow alleys and old-fashioned buildings give off a nostalgic feel and its stunning views of the ocean and mountains make it the perfect place for photography.
2. A-Mei Tea House - This tea house is one of the most famous in Taiwan and has been standing for more than 100 years. It's located halfway up a hill and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can enjoy traditional tea and snacks while taking in the breathtaking scenery.
3. Jiufen Gold Mine Museum - This museum is located in one of the old mining tunnels and showcases the history of the gold mining industry in Jiufen. Visitors can learn about the mining process, see mining equipment and even sample some of the gold flakes that were produced.
4. Shengping Theater - This historic building was once a cinema but has since been converted into a museum showcasing the history of Taiwanese cinema. The building itself has been preserved as a historic monument and is considered a cultural landmark in Jiufen.
5. Keelung Mountain Hiking Trail - This trail offers some of the most stunning views of the surrounding mountains and coastline. It's a bit of a climb to the top but the scenery is well worth the effort. Along the way, visitors can see old military bunkers and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
6. Yin and Yang Sea - This natural phenomenon is located on the coastline near Jiufen and is caused by the confluence of two different currents. The result is a beautiful contrast between the blue and green waters that gives the appearance of a yin-yang symbol.
7. Jinguashi - This historic mining town is located a short distance from Jiufen and offers visitors the chance to learn about the region's mining history. There are several museums and historic buildings to explore and the town's rustic charm makes it a great place to photograph.
Overall, Jiufen is a great destination to explore if you're interested in history, culture, and stunning natural scenery.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Taiwan, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Jiufen.

When to go on holiday to Jiufen

The best time to visit Jiufen in Taiwan is from October to December, as the weather is relatively mild and comfortable during this period. The temperatures are typically around 20-25°C (68-77°F), making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking and sightseeing. Additionally, this time of year also avoids the peak tourist season in Jiufen which runs from June to August, so visitors can generally expect to see fewer crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Jiufen

To get to Jiufen from Taipei, you can take a bus or a train.
By bus: 1. Take the MRT to Zhongxiao Fuxing Station.
2. Go to Exit 1 and walk to the nearby bus station.
3. Take the Keelung Bus number 1062 towards Jiufen.
4. The journey takes about 1 hour and costs around NT$102.
By train: 1. Take the train from Taipei Main Station to Ruifang Station.
2. From there, transfer to the local bus. Take the Keelung Bus number 788 or 825 towards Jiufen.
3. The journey takes about 15-20 minutes and costs around NT$15-30.
Alternatively, you can also take a taxi or hire a private driver to take you from Taipei to Jiufen. However, this option will be more expensive.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Jiufen, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Jiufen

Jiufen is famous for its unique and delicious foods, which are a mix of traditional Taiwanese and Japanese cuisine. Here are some of the typical foods of Jiufen with a short description of each: 1. Taro Balls: These are small balls made from taro flour that are mixed with water and then boiled. They are soft and chewy and have a slightly sweet taste.
2. Beef Noodle Soup: This is a hearty bowl of soup that is usually made with beef broth, chunks of beef, vegetables, and noodles. It is a popular Taiwanese dish and is often served as a comfort food.
3. Bubble Tea: This is a refreshing tea drink that is sweetened with fruit syrup and has tapioca pearls at the bottom of the glass. It is usually served with a large straw, so you can drink the tea and chew the pearls at the same time.
4. Pineapple Cake: This is a small, square-shaped cake that is filled with sweet pineapple jam. The cake is made from a mixture of flour, butter, and sugar and is a popular souvenir for visitors to take home.
5. Oyster Vermicelli: This is a noodle soup that is made with thin, vermicelli noodles and oysters. The soup is usually seasoned with garlic and vinegar and is served with fresh bean sprouts.
6. Gua Bao: This is a type of Taiwanese sandwich that is made with a steamed, fluffy bun filled with shredded pork belly, pickled vegetables, and peanut powder. It is a popular street food and is often found at night markets.
7. Grilled Squid: This is a popular seafood dish that is served at many Jiufen night markets. The squid is marinated in a soy sauce and sugar mixture and then grilled over an open flame. It is usually served on a stick and is a popular snack food.
You can find general info about typical foods in Taiwan here.

Is Jiufen an expensive destination for tourists?

Jiufen can be considered an expensive destination in Taiwan for tourists, especially if you compare it to other places in the country. The cost of accommodation, food, and entrance fees to attractions can be higher than in other cities in Taiwan. However, there are ways to budget your trip and still enjoy the beauty and culture of Jiufen. You can try local street food, stay in budget guesthouses or hostels, and walk around and enjoy the stunning scenery instead of paying for attractions. It all depends on your budget and travel preferences.

Where to find accomodation in Jiufen

There are three main areas that are popular for finding accommodation to visit Jiufen in Taiwan: 1. Jiufen Old Street: This area is the most popular for tourists as it is located in the heart of Jiufen's famous old street. You can find traditional guesthouses and tea houses here with a stunning view of the surrounding hills.
2. Ruifang District: This is an excellent option if you want to explore the surrounding areas as Ruifang District has plenty of accommodation options, including hotels and hostels.
3. Keelung City: Keelung City is a great option if you want to stay closer to the coast. There are various budget and mid-range accommodation options available here.
You can check hotel prices at Jiufen here:
Booking.com

Is Jiufen a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Jiufen is generally considered a safe place for tourists to visit in Taiwan. However, like any tourist destination, visitors should take common-sense precautions and be aware of their surroundings. It is always a good idea to keep your valuables secure and be cautious in crowded areas such as night markets. Also, be mindful of traffic when walking along narrow roads or streets. Overall, Jiufen is a beautiful and unique destination that is well worth a visit.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Taiwan here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Jiufen.

What type of travelers will enjoy Jiufen the most?

Jiufen in Taiwan is a popular destination for all types of travellers. However, it's known for its scenic beauty, tea houses, and shopping streets. Couples and young people looking for fun will enjoy exploring the charming alleys, sampling delicious street food, and browsing for unique souvenirs in the local stores. On the other hand, families can also enjoy the traditional culture, food, and stunning views of the mountains and sea. Overall, Jiufen is an exciting place to visit for anyone interested in experiencing the beauty and culture of Taiwan.

How to get around Jiufen

In Jiufen, you can move around on foot or take a taxi. The streets are narrow, steep, and winding, which makes it challenging to drive on your own. Taxis are widely available, and you can easily catch one at tourist hotspots, such as the Jiufen Old Street and Shengping Theater.

What to see around Jiufen

Sure, here are some nice places to visit on a day trip from Jiufen: 1. Pingxi: A charming old town known for its sky lanterns and scenic railway.
2. Shifen: A peaceful village with a famous waterfall and railway.
3. Yehliu Geopark: A stunning coastal park with unique rock formations.
4. Keelung: A bustling port city with delicious seafood and historical attractions like Ershawan Fort.
5. Jinguashi: A quaint mining town with a rich history and scenic views of the mountainous surroundings.
6. Fulong Beach: A beautiful sandy beach with clear water and gorgeous scenery.
7. The Hakka Cultural Village: A beautifully preserved Hakka village that offers a glimpse into Taiwan's diverse culture.
I hope this helps plan your day trip from Jiufen. Let me know if you need more information or have any questions!
For every travel information about Taiwan you can click here.

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