Tucked away in the misty hills of northern Taiwan lies Jiufen (九份)—a nostalgic mountain town that feels like stepping into a living postcard. With its narrow alleyways, glowing red lanterns, and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Jiufen captures the hearts of travelers seeking both history and enchantment.
Once a booming gold mining town during the Japanese era, it has since transformed into one of Taiwan’s most iconic destinations, blending old-world charm with modern street culture. Whether you’re drawn by its cinematic past, bustling street food scene, or the magical ambiance that inspired Spirited Away, Jiufen promises a unique and unforgettable journey into Taiwan’s cultural soul.
My Jiufen Experience
We reached Jiufen just before 4:30 PM. After winding roads and scenic mountain views, our bus (a tour we booked on Klook) finally stopped at the Jiufen Geding Station Parking Lot, conveniently located near the Mount Keelung Trail.
From the parking lot, it was only a short walk to the bustling heart of the town—Jiufen Old Street. Once we saw the familiar 7-Eleven at the U-curve where Qiche Road and Ruijin Road meet, we knew we had arrived at the main entrance.
To make the most of your trip, I suggest that you book the Yehliu Geopark, Jiufen, Shifen, and Golden Waterfall Day Tour on Klook!
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A Glimpse Into Jiufen’s Rich History
Jiufen, once a modest mountain village, rose to fame during the gold mining boom of the 1890s. When gold was discovered in the surrounding hills, the town rapidly transformed into a prosperous mining area during the Japanese colonial period. Its steep alleyways, lantern-lit teahouses, and old-style buildings still carry the architectural influence of that era.
After the mining industry declined in the 1970s, Jiufen fell into obscurity—until the Taiwanese film A City of Sadness (1989) brought the town back into the limelight. Today, it’s a must-visit destination for both local and international tourists, often associated with the aesthetics of Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away.
Read more about the Shuinandong Smelter
Into the Heart of Jiufen Old Street
Jiufen Old Street mainly runs along Jishan Street, a narrow pathway bursting with life, flavors, and colors. As we walked deeper into the alley, we were instantly enveloped by the scent of food, the energy of merchants shouting out their best deals, and the steady flow of tourists moving through the vibrant maze.
We got to sample a variety of Taiwanese treats offered as free tastes by friendly vendors—some of which were familiar from our previous stops at Wulai Old Street. But Jiufen offered so much more. Unlike the smaller and more laid-back old streets we visited the past two days, Jiufen is larger, livelier, and undeniably more crowded.
If you're looking for a quieter experience, consider visiting in the morning when the streets are less congested and the pace is more relaxed. Most shops open later in the day, which is when the real action begins.
10 Must-Visit Spots and Stores in Jiufen
A-Mei Teahouse (阿妹茶樓) – The iconic teahouse that inspired the bathhouse in Spirited Away.
Jiufen Shengping Theater – Taiwan’s oldest existing movie theater from the Japanese era.
Jiufen Kite Museum – A small shop and gallery showcasing traditional Taiwanese kites.
Jiufen Taro Ball Dessert Shop (賴阿婆芋圓) – Famous for handmade taro balls.
Ah Lan Hakka Glutinous Rice Cake (阿蘭草仔粿) – A traditional shop selling sticky rice cakes.
Jiufen Old Street Lantern Viewpoint – The best photo spot for the iconic lantern-lit stairway.
Jiufen Soap House (九份手工皂) – Offers natural and uniquely shaped handmade soaps.
Grandma Lai’s Yuyuan (賴阿婆芋圓) – Another popular dessert stop with a long history.
Artist Teahouse & Gallery – Blends art, food, and scenic views.
Jiufen Nostalgic Inn Gift Shop – A charming shop selling old-school Taiwanese memorabilia.
5 Must-Try Foods in Jiufen
Taro Ball Dessert (芋圓) – Chewy and refreshing, served cold or hot.
Herbal Rice Cake (草仔粿) – Made from mugwort and filled with sweet or savory fillings.
Fish Ball Soup (魚丸湯) – Flavorful soup with handmade fish balls.
Peanut Ice Cream Roll (花生捲冰淇淋) – Crushed peanut brittle, cilantro, and ice cream in a spring roll wrap.
Grilled Taiwanese Sausage (香腸) – Juicy, sweet-savory sausage often sold with sticky rice bun.
5 Souvenirs to Buy in Jiufen
T-shirts with Jiufen Old Street Designs – I bought one myself!
Refrigerator Magnets – Like the one I got showing the picturesque Old Street.
Handmade Soaps – Shaped like flowers, fruit, or animals.
Traditional Taiwanese Teas – Oolong and high-mountain teas are popular.
Lantern-Themed Keychains and Charms – Great small gifts and keepsakes.
How to Get to Jiufen from Taipei
Optionally, you can take public transportation going to Jiufen from Taipei:
🚌 Option 1: By Bus (Most Convenient)
From: MRT Zhongxiao Fuxing Station (Blue Line/ Brown Line, Exit 2)
- Go to the bus stop outside Exit 2 of Zhongxiao Fuxing Station.
- Take Bus 1062 (Keelung Bus) bound for Jinguashi (金瓜石).
- Get off at Jiufen Old Street (九份老街) stop (around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic).
🕒 Bus interval: Every 15–20 minutes
💰 Fare: ~NT$100 one-way (you can pay with an EasyCard)
✅ Pros: Direct, no transfers.
❗️Tip: Sit on the left side for scenic mountain and ocean views!
🚈🚌 Option 2: Train + Bus (More Scenic)
From: Taipei Main Station
- Take a train to Ruifang Station (瑞芳火車站) – ~45 mins
- Exit Ruifang Station and walk ~5 mins to the bus stop
- Take Bus 788, 827, 965, or 1062 to Jiufen Old Street – ~15-20 mins
💰 Train fare: ~NT$50
💰 Bus fare: ~NT$20–30
✅ Pros: Great if you want to explore Ruifang first.
❗️Tip: Avoid weekend crowds—go early in the day if possible.
🚕 Option 3: By Taxi or Private Tour
A taxi from Taipei to Jiufen costs around NT$1,200–1,500 one-way.
Ideal for groups or if you want a more comfortable ride.
Private day tours are also available through Klook or KKDay.
✅ Pros: Most comfortable, flexible time
❌ Cons: Most expensive
We spent a wonderful two hours exploring Jiufen, weaving through alleyways and indulging in snacks. As the sun began to set, the streetlights and lanterns illuminated the old town, creating an atmosphere that felt both nostalgic and magical. We had dinner at a small eatery, enjoying Taiwanese fried rice, dim sum, and a warm bowl of noodle soup to end our visit.
By 6:20 PM, we were back at our bus and on the road again—our hearts full and stomachs fuller. Jiufen had definitely left a lasting impression, a lively contrast to the serenity of Wulai and the quaint charm of Shifen.
If you ever find yourself in northern Taiwan, don’t miss Jiufen. Come for the history, stay for the food, and get lost in the charm of its glowing lanterns and winding alleyways.
Visit my list of Frequently Asked Questions in Taiwan (FAQs) to learn more.
Also in Taiwan
- TAIWAN TRAVEL GUIDE: How to Travel from Manila to Taipei (For First Timers)
- WULAI TRAVEL GUIDE: A Scenic Day Trip into Taiwan’s Natural and Cultural Heart
- Understanding Taipei Districts: A Complete Guide to the Taiwan's Soul
- Understanding Taipei Metro: Guide to Taiwan's MRT (Stations and Map)
- Guide to Daan District, Taipei: Parks, Food, Culture & City Life
- A Tourist's Guide to Public Transportation and Commuting in Taiwan
- Ultimate Guide to Riverside and Urban Parks in Taipei and Nearby Areas
