TW
Jiufen
A former gold-mining town on a steep hillside, with lantern-lit lanes, teahouses and sea views
A former gold-mining town on a steep hillside, with lantern-lit lanes, teahouses and sea views
The narrow covered lane is packed with snack stalls selling taro balls, peanut ice-cream rolls and fish balls.
Go early or late to avoid the busiest hours.
Photo: bizmac, CC BY 2.0
This wooden teahouse on the Shuqi Road steps is the town’s most photographed building. Tea is served with views over the hills and sea.
Expect a wait for seats.
Photo: ume-y, CC BY 2.0
After dark, the lanterns come on and the crowds thin as day-trip groups leave. Staying overnight lets you enjoy the town in peace.
Photo: Sunkenbean, CC BY-SA 4.0
A short bus ride away, the Gold Museum covers the area’s mining history, and trails lead up Teapot Mountain. The nearby Golden Waterfall is coloured by mineral run-off.
Photo: eugene_o, CC BY 2.0
Try taro balls, fish balls, peanut ice-cream rolls and oolong tea in a teahouse.
Most snacks are sold on Old Street.
Bus 1062 runs from Taipei to Jiufen, taking around 1–1.5 hours depending on traffic. Alternatively, take a train to Ruifang and a short bus or taxi up the hill.
Weekends and holidays are very crowded; the last buses back to Taipei can be full.
Taiwan uses the New Taiwan dollar (TWD).
Combine Jiufen with Jinguashi.
Visit Jinguashi and the Gold Museum.
Walk Old Street and have tea as the lanterns come on.
Bring an umbrella; it often rains on this coast.
Visit on a weekday if you can.
Expect many steep steps.
Allow time for long queues for buses back.
Quick answers for planning time in Jiufen.
By bus 1062, or by train to Ruifang and then bus or taxi.
Its lantern-lit old streets, teahouses and gold-mining history.
On weekday mornings and after the evening rush.
Jinguashi, with its Gold Museum and Teapot Mountain.
Spring and autumn.
Planning a wider trip? Our Taiwan travel guide covers getting there, costs, when to go and more.