JIUFEN OLD STREET TAIWAN

Jiufen Old Street is a historic gold-mining village that draws visitors for its winding alleys, red lanterns, and nostalgic charm. The narrow streets are lined with teahouses, snack stalls, and souvenir shops, making it a feast for the senses. Jiufen offers visitors with a treat of known snacks like taro balls, peanut ice cream rolls with stunning mountains and sea view on the background. It is ideal day trip from Taipei and must-visit destination for travelers seeking both flavors and memories. Here in this guide, we will share everything you need to know about visiting Jiufen. Whether you’re planning a day trip from Taipei or staying overnight to soak in the magic, this travel guide will help you make the most of your Jiufen adventure.

Jiufen Old Street Taiwan Sign
  1. History Of Jiufen
  2. Where Is Jiufen Old Street Taiwan
  3. How To Go Jiufen Old Street
  4. What To See & Do In Jiufen Old Street Taiwan 
    A. Walk Main Alleyways
    B. Check Traditional Tea Houses
    C. Try Street Snacks and Local Flavor
    D. Snap Photos Of Red Lanterns
    E.Explore Nearby Attractions
  5. Jiufen Old Street Day Trip Itineray
  6. Tips On Visiting Jiufen Old Street
  7. Summary

History Of Jiufen

Art Sculpture At Jiufen Old Street

The word Jiufen’s comes from the name which means “nine portions”. This translated to the nine original families who once lived. The discovery of gold in the late 1800s turned the sleepy village into a booming mining town. After the mines was closed in the 1970s, Jiufen’s economy declined — but its unique atmosphere and preserved streets brought new life as a beloved travel spot. Today, Jiufen is a popular tourist destination, celebrated for its red lanterns, teahouses, and street food.

Where Is Jiufen Old Street

Jiufen Old Street is situated in the mountains of Ruifang District, New Taipei City, Taiwan. It was bustling gold-mining town, now draws travelers with its charming alleyways, traditional teahouses, and breathtaking mountain-and-sea views.

Jiufen Old Street is open 24 hours, but most of the shops operates from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

How To Go Jiufen Old Street

Bus Stop At Jiufen Old Street

Getting to Jiufen is simple from Taipei, here are few options to reach Jiufen.

    1. Bus 965/1062
      This bus has direct route to Jiufen, with journey time of 60–90 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
    2. Train + Bus
      Ride TRA (Taiwan Railway) train from Taipei Main Station to Ruifang Station (about 40–50 minutes). At Ruifang, take the bus 788/1062 up to the mountain which takes around 15–20 minutes.
    3. Shuttle Bus
      Most of the tour companies and hotels offer direct shuttles from Taipei which offer hassle-free experience in visiting Jiufen.

All tourist visitors traveling to Taiwan are required to present the electronic or Taiwan Online Arrival Card to the custom officer

What to See & Do In Jiufen Old Street Taiwan

Walking At Jiufen Old Street Taiwan

Jiufen Old Street is known for its nostalgic ambiance, the street is lined with traditional tea houses, street food vendors, and artisan shops, offering a perfect mix of old-world charm and modern-day excitement. As you stroll down the narrow alleyways, you’ll be enticed by the smell of freshly made taro balls, bubble tea, and traditional Taiwanese snacks. Jiufen Old Street offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination when traveling to Taiwan.

#1 Walk Main Alleyways

Lantern Hanging on Alleys of Jiufen Old Street

The alleyways are lined with small shops, street food stalls, and tea houses, giving you a true taste of Jiufen’s charm. This alleys can twist and turn with staircases and small pathways leading to hidden tea houses or scenic viewpoints. Walking offers visitors sightseeing experience through history, culture, and local flavors, all in a compact walkable area.

#2 Check Traditional Tea Houses

A Mei Tea House Jiufen Old Street

Jiufen Old Street is home to several traditional tea houses that are steeped in history and offer a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the main street. These tea houses are perfect for anyone looking to experience Taiwan’s tea culture in an authentic settingVisit the iconic spots like A-Mei Tea House or Jiufen Teahouse, perched on the hillside. Then sip Taiwanese tea while enjoying panoramic views of the mountains and Pacific Ocean.

#3 Try Street Snacks & Local Flavours

Street Food and Shops At Jiufen Old Street

It is also food paradise, packed with a variety of street snacks that showcase the rich flavors of Taiwanese cuisine. As visitor wander through the narrow alleys, the air is filled with the enticing aromas of freshly cooked treats, inviting you to sample some of the local delicacies that have made this area famous.No visit to Jiufen is complete without sampling its famous street snacks. Visitors can try the sweet potato balls, peanut ice cream rolls, fish ball soup, and fried snacks.

#4 Snap Photos of Red Lanterns

Hanging Lanterns Jiufen Old Street

Jiufen is famous for its red lanterns hanging along alleyways, creating a cinematic atmosphere—especially during dusk. Perfect for Instagram-worthy shots or capturing the village’s nostalgic charm.

#5 Explore Nearby Attractions

Gold Museum Near The Jiufen Old Street Taiwan

Visitors can extend visit with nearby places like Gold Museum where one can learn into Jiufen’s mining history and see old mining tunnels. Surrounded with mountain, visitor can go for hike for panoramic views of Keelung mountain.

Jiufen Old Street Day Trip Itinerary

Entrance To Jiufen Old Street Taiwan
  • 8:00 AM – Depart Taipei
  • 9:30 AM – Explore the Main Old Street Alleyways
  • 11:00 AM – Visit Tea houses with Mountain Views
  • 12:30 PM – Lunch at a Local Eatery
  • 1:30 PM – Cultural & Historical Stops (Jiufen Gold Museum)
  • 3:30 PM – Scenic Photos & Souvenir Shopping
  • 12:30 PM – Lunch
  • 5:00 PM – Sunset Views & Evening Tea
  • 6:00 PM – Return to Taipei

Tips On Visiting Jiufen Old Stret

Golden Cafe Restaurant At Jiufen Old Street
  • Arrive early to avoid crowds specially on weekends and holidays
  • Wear comfortable shoes with street filled with narrow stairs
  • Bring cash most shops don’t accept cards
  • Pack umbrella or light rain jacket in event weather change
  • Bring water and stay hydrated

Final Thoughts

Xiahai City God Temple Near Jiufen Old Street

Jiufen Old Street Taiwan is a magical blend of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery. Its winding alleys, red lanterns, and hillside views create an atmosphere that feels both nostalgic and otherworldly. Visiting Jiufen isn’t just a sightseeing trip—it’s a journey into the heart of Taiwan’s mountain towns, where every corner tells a story. Plan your visit thoughtfully, take your time exploring, and allow yourself to get lost in its charm Whether you’re savoring local street food, enjoying tea at a historic teahouse, or capturing the lantern-lit streets on camera, Jiufen offers experiences that linger long after you leave.

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the gees travel

A wife and a mother of three toddlers | Previously working as customer service executive in a logistics supply chain | working at home mom. But in spite of this added responsibilities I still find time to travel and explore together with my family.

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