Explore Jiufen old street 九份老街 Like a Local: Must-See Spots, Delicious Food, and Essential Travel Tips
Jiufen（九份）, a picturesque town nestled in the mountains overlooking Taiwan’s northeastern coast, is a must-visit destination known for its steep alleys, lantern-lit streets, and historic charm. Whether you’re there for the stunning views or the local food, Jiufen offers a unique experience.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Jiufen is famous for its narrow streets and countless stairs. The terrain is uneven, and the streets can get slippery when it rains. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are essential to enjoy your walk around the town, especially since you’ll be climbing and descending steps throughout your visit.
Be Careful on Narrow Streets
The narrow lanes, especially in Jiufen Old Street, can become crowded quickly. Be cautious while walking, and always watch your step. It’s also easy to lose sight of your companions, so staying together as a group is important to avoid getting separated.
Keep Values Safe
With large crowds and narrow walkways, it’s a good idea to keep a close eye on your belongings. Wear bags in front of you or use a money belt to avoid the risk of theft.
Bring a Raincoat
Jiufen is often rainy, even when other parts of Taiwan are dry. Bring a lightweight, packable raincoat instead of an umbrella. Umbrellas can be impractical in the crowded, narrow streets and may even pose a hazard in tight spaces.
Stay With Your Group
Jiufen’s winding alleys can be confusing. If traveling with friends or family, make sure to stick together, as it’s easy to get lost among the bustling streets and hidden shops.
Shopping Tips
Many shops offer local products, souvenirs, and handicrafts. If you’re planning to buy several items or bulky goods, ask the store if they can help with hotel delivery or hold the items for pickup later.
Timing Your Visit
For the best experience, try visiting Jiufen early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid crowds. Weekdays are also quieter compared to weekends. If possible, visit during the off-peak season to enjoy the atmosphere with fewer tourists.
Jishan Viewing Platform
Located near the entrance of Jiufen Old Street, this platform offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, lush green mountains, and the charming town. It’s a great spot for taking photos and soaking in the beauty of the landscape.
A-Mei Tea House
Inspired by the famous movie Spirited Away, this iconic teahouse is one of Jiufen’s most photographed spots. Whether you’re a fan of the film or just appreciate traditional Japanese architecture, A-Mei Tea House is a must-visit for tea lovers.
Recommendations:
Amei Teahouse in Jiufen
Skyline Teahouse in Jiufen
Shengping Theater
This historic theater is a nod to Jiufen’s golden age during Taiwan’s mining boom. It offers free guided tours and occasional screenings of classic Taiwanese films, giving you a chance to dive into the local culture.
Golden Waterfall (Jinguashi)
The Golden Waterfall is a striking sight, where mineral-rich waters have given the rocks a golden hue. This unique natural phenomenon is caused by the oxidation of metals from the area’s mining history.
Yin-Yang Sea (Jinguashi)
Another geological wonder, the Yin-Yang Sea exhibits a stark contrast between the blue ocean and golden-brown waters from mineral runoff. This creates a visually stunning seascape unlike anywhere else.
Gold Ecological Park (Jinguashi)
Explore Taiwan’s gold-mining history at this park, which includes a museum and a chance to see a 220-kilogram gold bar. It’s a fascinating stop for history buffs or anyone interested in Taiwan’s industrial past.
Baoshishan Tunnel & Jinguashi Shrine (Jinguashi)
These historic sites take you back to Jiufen’s mining days. The scenic walk to the shrine offers beautiful views of the mountains and coast.
Lien Dong Elementary School (Jinguashi)
A popular photography spot, this school offers panoramic views of the ocean, making it a great place for taking memorable photos of the Jiufen area.
Food Recommendations
The food in Jiufen is as iconic as its views. These are some of the must-try local delicacies:
Jiufen Taro Balls
Chewy and flavorful, these taro balls are served either hot or cold in sweet soups. Lai A-Po Taro Balls is a popular spot to try this traditional dessert.
Fish Ball Soup
A comforting bowl of fish ball soup, usually served with bean curd rolls. This simple dish is perfect after a day of exploring.
Peanut Ice Cream Roll
A refreshing treat, this street food favorite combines peanut brittle shavings, cilantro, and ice cream rolled into a delicate crepe.
You-Tiao Guo
A local snack made with fried dough sticks and drizzled with sweet sauces—crispy on the outside and soft inside.
Honey-Flavored Braised Food
At Hu Li Chang, you can try their unique dishes flavored with honey. It’s a sweet twist on traditional dishes braised items.
Jiufen Transportation
Jiufen is accessible from Taipei and other parts of Taiwan:
From Taipei:
Bus: The easiest way is by taking bus 1062 from Zhongxiao Fuxing MRT Station to Jiufen or bus 965 from Ximending to Jiufen. The ride takes about 1.5 hours.
Taipei Ximending to Jiufen Bus 965 Ticket
Train + Bus: Take a TRA train to Ruifang Station, then hop on a local bus or taxi to Jiufen.
Taiwan Railway Train Ticket
Taxi: Taxis are available from Taipei City or Ruifang Station, offering a more convenient but pricier option.New Taipei Private tour Car Rental with Driver : Jiufen , Pingxi (from Taipei)
Recommendations:
[Muslim-Friendly] Jiufen /Shifen Private Group One-Day Tour
Jiufen 九份
Jiufen Amei Tea House
Jiufen Travel guide
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Jiufen is famous for its narrow streets and countless stairs. The terrain is uneven, and the streets can get slippery when it rains. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are essential to enjoy your walk around the town, especially since you’ll be climbing and descending steps throughout your visit.
Be Careful on Narrow Streets
The narrow lanes, especially in Jiufen Old Street, can become crowded quickly. Be cautious while walking, and always watch your step. It’s also easy to lose sight of your companions, so staying together as a group is important to avoid getting separated.
Keep Values Safe
With large crowds and narrow walkways, it’s a good idea to keep a close eye on your belongings. Wear bags in front of you or use a money belt to avoid the risk of theft.
Bring a Raincoat
Jiufen is often rainy, even when other parts of Taiwan are dry. Bring a lightweight, packable raincoat instead of an umbrella. Umbrellas can be impractical in the crowded, narrow streets and may even pose a hazard in tight spaces.
Stay With Your Group
Jiufen’s winding alleys can be confusing. If traveling with friends or family, make sure to stick together, as it’s easy to get lost among the bustling streets and hidden shops.
Shopping Tips
Many shops offer local products, souvenirs, and handicrafts. If you’re planning to buy several items or bulky goods, ask the store if they can help with hotel delivery or hold the items for pickup later.
Timing Your Visit
For the best experience, try visiting Jiufen early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid crowds. Weekdays are also quieter compared to weekends. If possible, visit during the off-peak season to enjoy the atmosphere with fewer tourists.
Jiufen main entrance
Countless stairs in Jiufen
Jiufen Homestay
Rainy Jiufen
Resident houses - Jiufen
Jiufen 九份/Jinguashi 金瓜石 attractions
Jishan Viewing Platform
Located near the entrance of Jiufen Old Street, this platform offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, lush green mountains, and the charming town. It’s a great spot for taking photos and soaking in the beauty of the landscape.
A-Mei Tea House
Inspired by the famous movie Spirited Away, this iconic teahouse is one of Jiufen’s most photographed spots. Whether you’re a fan of the film or just appreciate traditional Japanese architecture, A-Mei Tea House is a must-visit for tea lovers.
Recommendations:
Amei Teahouse in Jiufen
Skyline Teahouse in Jiufen
Shengping Theater
This historic theater is a nod to Jiufen’s golden age during Taiwan’s mining boom. It offers free guided tours and occasional screenings of classic Taiwanese films, giving you a chance to dive into the local culture.
Golden Waterfall (Jinguashi)
The Golden Waterfall is a striking sight, where mineral-rich waters have given the rocks a golden hue. This unique natural phenomenon is caused by the oxidation of metals from the area’s mining history.
Yin-Yang Sea (Jinguashi)
Another geological wonder, the Yin-Yang Sea exhibits a stark contrast between the blue ocean and golden-brown waters from mineral runoff. This creates a visually stunning seascape unlike anywhere else.
Gold Ecological Park (Jinguashi)
Explore Taiwan’s gold-mining history at this park, which includes a museum and a chance to see a 220-kilogram gold bar. It’s a fascinating stop for history buffs or anyone interested in Taiwan’s industrial past.
Baoshishan Tunnel & Jinguashi Shrine (Jinguashi)
These historic sites take you back to Jiufen’s mining days. The scenic walk to the shrine offers beautiful views of the mountains and coast.
Lien Dong Elementary School (Jinguashi)
A popular photography spot, this school offers panoramic views of the ocean, making it a great place for taking memorable photos of the Jiufen area.
Jiufen old street
Shengping Theater
Shengping Theater
Yinyang sea
Shifen waterfall
Baoshishan mountain view
The food in Jiufen is as iconic as its views. These are some of the must-try local delicacies:
Jiufen Taro Balls
Chewy and flavorful, these taro balls are served either hot or cold in sweet soups. Lai A-Po Taro Balls is a popular spot to try this traditional dessert.
Fish Ball Soup
A comforting bowl of fish ball soup, usually served with bean curd rolls. This simple dish is perfect after a day of exploring.
Peanut Ice Cream Roll
A refreshing treat, this street food favorite combines peanut brittle shavings, cilantro, and ice cream rolled into a delicate crepe.
You-Tiao Guo
A local snack made with fried dough sticks and drizzled with sweet sauces—crispy on the outside and soft inside.
Honey-Flavored Braised Food
At Hu Li Chang, you can try their unique dishes flavored with honey. It’s a sweet twist on traditional dishes braised items.
Taro balls
Pickled food
Stinky Toufu
Fish ball soup
Braised food
Jiufen Coffee
Dried food
Fried squid
Peanut Icecream
Jiufen is accessible from Taipei and other parts of Taiwan:
From Taipei:
Bus: The easiest way is by taking bus 1062 from Zhongxiao Fuxing MRT Station to Jiufen or bus 965 from Ximending to Jiufen. The ride takes about 1.5 hours.
Taipei Ximending to Jiufen Bus 965 Ticket
Train + Bus: Take a TRA train to Ruifang Station, then hop on a local bus or taxi to Jiufen.
Taiwan Railway Train Ticket
Taxi: Taxis are available from Taipei City or Ruifang Station, offering a more convenient but pricier option.New Taipei Private tour Car Rental with Driver : Jiufen , Pingxi (from Taipei)
Recommendations:
[Muslim-Friendly] Jiufen /Shifen Private Group One-Day Tour
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