Jiufen and Shifen One-Day Tour Guide | Ultimate Itinerary, Attractions, and Food Compilation

Looking for a day filled with adventure and delicious food? Jiufen and Shifen in New Taipei City, Taiwan, are the perfect spots! Known for their nostalgic charm and unique eats, these destinations offer an unforgettable experience. This guide is your go-to for planning the ultimate one-day trip to Jiufen and Shifen. We'll cover all the must-see attractions, must-try foods, and handy transportation tips. Get ready to dive into the enchanting old streets and scenic mountain towns of Jiufen and Shifen with ease!

If you're planning a day trip to Jiufen and Shifen, here's a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your adventure:

09:30 Arrive at Jiufen Old Street
10:00 Wander around Jiufen Old Street (don't miss Shengping Theater, Jiufen Old Street, and Jishan Street)
11:30 Hop on a small train or bus from Jiufen to Shifen
12:00 Stroll through Shifen Old Street
13:00 Grab some lunch and try the local delicacies in Shifen
14:30 Release a sky lantern in Shifen - it's a must-do!
16:00 Catch the bus from Shifen to Ruifang Train Station
18:00 Head back home

Jiufen Old Street is famous for its winding cobblestone paths and iconic red lanterns, giving off a nostalgic vibe of an old mountain town. Both sides of the street are lined with quirky shops and food stalls, making it the perfect place to pick up unique souvenirs and try out local treats. When you visit Jiufen Old Street, make sure to snap some photos on the stairways to capture Jiufen's unique charm.

Perched on the quaint old street of Jiufen, Shengping Theater is famous for being the backdrop of the movie "City of Sadness." The theater's façade exudes a nostalgic charm, with its walls decorated with vintage movie posters. Even though it's no longer operational, Shengping Theater is still a must-see spot for anyone visiting Jiufen.

If you're looking for a place with jaw-dropping mountain and sea views, Ji Shan Street in Jiu Fen is the spot for you. Nestled above the old streets, this charming area offers a unique blend of natural beauty and the quaint allure of a mountain town. As you wander through the narrow alleys, you'll be treated to panoramic coastal vistas that make you feel like you've been transported to another world. And don't miss out on the nighttime scenery—Ji Shan Street is perfect for soaking in the enchanting evening ambiance of Jiu Fen.

Shifen Old Street is famous for its enchanting sky lanterns, charming railway, and nostalgic ambiance. As you wander down the street, you'll discover a plethora of unique shops offering a wide array of souvenirs and local delicacies. The street is also dotted with food stalls where you can indulge in Shifen's signature dishes. A leisurely stroll through this historic street will let you soak in the unique allure of Shifen.

Located close to the charming old street of Shifen, Shifen Waterfall stands out as the only waterfall in Taiwan with a railway running through it. This unique feature allows visitors to marvel at the breathtaking waterfall while also catching glimpses of trains rumbling by. There's a viewing platform situated below the waterfall, which provides a fantastic vantage point for soaking in the scenery and snapping some memorable photos.

When you're in Shifen, you absolutely have to release a sky lantern. The charming old street is dotted with lantern stalls, where you can jot down your wishes and get a hand from the friendly shopkeepers to send your lantern up into the sky. As you watch it float away, you'll feel like your dreams are taking flight too, making for a truly magical experience.

If you find yourself in Jiufen, you absolutely have to try the famous Jiufen Taro Balls. Known for their delightfully chewy texture and rich taro flavor, these treats are a local favorite. They’re typically coated in peanut powder or brown sugar, then drizzled with a luscious brown sugar syrup, making them a sweet indulgence you won’t want to miss. For the best experience, head to A Gan Yi Taro Balls or Lai A Po Taro Balls.

Wandering through the lively Jiufen Old Street, you'll stumble upon countless food stalls proudly serving up golden, crispy stinky tofu. This local treat boasts a delightful contrast between its crunchy outside and soft, tender inside, all topped off with a special sauce that packs a savory punch. While the aroma might be strong, the taste is simply irresistible, making it an essential bite when you're in Jiufen. Be sure to treat yourself to this unique snack on your visit!

If you find yourself wandering through Shifen Old Street, make sure to try the quail eggs—an absolute treat you shouldn't miss. These little delights are quail eggs wrapped in a savory meat filling, deep-fried to perfection until they're golden brown, and then topped with a mouthwatering sweet and spicy sauce. The result? A crispy, flavorful bite that perfectly balances sweetness and spice, making them incredibly hard to resist.

When you're in Shifen, you absolutely have to try their famous scallion pancakes. These aren't your typical pancakes – they're a local specialty known as Bomb Scallion Pancakes. Imagine a thick, crispy pancake wrapped around delicious fillings like hot dogs and corn. The outside is crunchy, while the inside remains wonderfully chewy. Each bite offers a burst of savory goodness and a mix of textures that you won't forget. Don't leave Shifen without indulging in this unique and tasty treat!

How to Get to Jiufen:

1. By Train: Hop on a train to Ruifang Station, then switch to a bus that will take you directly to Jiufen.
2. By Bus: You can catch either the Kuo-Kuang Bus or the Keelung Bus from Taipei Main Station; both will bring you to Jiufen.

How to Get to Shifen:

1. By Train: Take a train to Ruifang Station, then transfer to the Pingxi Line and get off at Shifen Station.
2. By Bus: The Kuo-Kuang Bus from Taipei Main Station will also take you to Shifen.

Looking for a trip down memory lane or a taste of authentic Taiwanese culture? Jiufen and Shifen in New Taipei City are the perfect spots! These charming destinations are famous for their nostalgic vibes and mouth-watering local dishes. Whether you're a fan of the movie "City of Sadness" or dream of releasing a sky lantern into the night, Jiufen and Shifen have got you covered. Here's your ultimate guide to planning an unforgettable one-day adventure filled with fun and fantastic food!