7-Hour Jiufen Night View, Shifen Waterfall & Raohe Market Tour

Exploring Taiwan’s Hidden Gems in Just One Day
If you’re craving a day filled with stunning scenery, local culture, and vibrant night markets, this 7-hour tour covering Jiufen, Shifen Waterfall, and Raohe Market could be just what you need. With a balanced mix of nature, history, and food, it offers a snapshot of Taiwan’s diverse attractions without the hassle of planning each stop yourself.

What we love about this experience is its good value for money, the expert guides (many reviews praise guides like James and Vinnie for their attentiveness and knowledge), and the variety of sights packed into one day. Plus, the opportunity to make a wish on a sky lantern at Shifen and enjoy Jiufen’s charming streets are unforgettable moments. That said, a potential drawback is the tight schedule—there’s quite a lot to see and do, so you’ll need good walking shoes and a sense of time management.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want an organized, all-in-one experience of northern Taiwan’s highlights. If you’re short on time but eager to see three distinct sites with a knowledgeable guide, this trip offers a lot of bang for your buck.

Key Points

• Comprehensive coverage of Taiwan’s scenic, cultural, and culinary highlights in one tour
• Excellent guide service praised for attention and language skills
• Good value at $39 per person, including transportation, insurance, and guided commentary
• Moderate walking and stairs expected, with some stops potentially affected during maintenance or busy periods
• Flexible and cancelable up to 24 hours in advance for peace of mind
• Ideal for those seeking an organized, engaging day trip without the stress of planning

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point at Taipei Main Station

The tour kicks off around 1:30 pm at Taipei Main Station, a central and accessible location near public transportation. From here, you’ll hop into a comfortable vehicle with a group of up to 40 travelers, guided by a licensed English-speaking guide. The travel time between stops is accounted for, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery on the way.

Shifen Waterfall: Nature’s Power and Serenity

The first stop is the spectacular Shifen Waterfall, often called the “Little Niagara” of Taiwan. Here, we loved the relaxed vibe as our guide took us on a gentle walk along the trail beside the cascade. The roar of water, the lush greenery, and the mist in the air make it a perfect spot for photos and simply soaking in nature’s raw beauty.

Reviewers highlight that the 50-minute visit is well-paced, giving plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and even snap some photos. One reviewer mentioned that if the waterfall suspension bridge is under maintenance (which happens annually), an alternative route might involve extra walking, but generally, the view is worth it. The waterfall’s size and the sound of rushing water make for a calming start to the afternoon.

Shifen Old Street: Cultural Flare and Sky Lanterns

Next, you’ll head to Shifen Old Street, a lively hub of local shops, food stalls, and sky lanterns. Here, travelers get to write wishes on paper lanterns and release them into the sky—a classic activity that creates a magical moment. Many visitors mention how fun and meaningful it is to participate in this tradition, often with guides offering helpful tips on writing wishes or controlling the lanterns.

You’ll have approximately 50 minutes here, which felt ample for browsing local snacks, browsing souvenirs, and getting your lantern ready. As one reviewer noted, the town’s vibrant atmosphere offers a glimpse into Taiwan’s cultural heritage and the joy of community traditions.

Jiufen Old Street: Historical Charm and Foodie Heaven

Then, the bus takes you to Jiufen Old Street, a mountain town famous for its narrow cobblestone streets, tea houses, and local treats. This part of the tour is the longest, with around 2 hours and 30 minutes to explore. Walking into Jiufen feels like stepping back in time—colorful shops, the scent of fresh snacks, and views of distant mountains all blend into a unique atmosphere.

Many reviews mention how the weather can impact your experience, especially if it’s rainy or foggy—one traveler noted that poor weather obscured the waterfalls, but the town remained magical nonetheless. Some visitors found Jiufen to be crowded, particularly during peak hours, so being patient and flexible helps.

While there, don’t miss trying local specialties like taro balls, herbal rice cakes, and tea. The town’s tea culture is prominent, and many guides offer insights into Taiwan’s tea-drinking traditions, making it a delightful stop for both food lovers and culture buffs.

Evening at Raohe Night Market: A Foodie Paradise

The tour ends at Raohe Street Night Market, where you’re free to explore and indulge in Taiwanese street food at your own pace. This market is renowned for its lively atmosphere, with stalls offering everything from pepper buns to stinky tofu. While meals aren’t included, the experience of strolling through the bustling market, sampling local delicacies, and soaking up the nighttime energy is a highlight.

Reviewers recommend arriving hungry and prepared for a variety of flavors. One traveler noted that the market is a great way to wind down after a busy day, with plenty of options to suit different tastes and budgets.

Transportation and Group Size

Transportation is included in the tour price and is typically comfortable and air-conditioned. The group size is capped at 40 travelers, which balances social atmosphere with manageable logistics. Several reviews mention the guides’ ability to keep everyone on schedule, even with language barriers or large groups.

The tour is designed to maximize sightseeing in a limited time, so expect some walking and stairs—Jiufen’s streets are cobblestone and slightly steep, and the waterfall trail may involve additional walking if alternative routes are used.

Guides and Service

Many reviews praise the guides, especially James and Vinnie, for their attentiveness, energy, and multilingual skills. They provide a wealth of information about each site and handle the logistics smoothly. One reviewer specifically appreciated the guide’s ability to manage different languages and keep everyone engaged.

Cost and Value

At $39 per person, this tour offers good value considering the transportation, guided commentary, and entrance fees (which are free at major stops). It’s an affordable way to see some of Taiwan’s highlights quickly, especially compared to the cost of organizing separate transport or self-guided visits.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Wear comfortable shoes, as walking and stairs are involved, especially in Jiufen.
• Prepare for weather changes—rain gear or umbrellas are recommended.
• Arrive on time at Taipei Main Station to start smoothly.
• Keep track of time during each stop to ensure you get the most out of your day.
• If visiting on a weekend, be aware that Jiufen traffic control may extend your transit times, potentially cutting into your exploration.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues may find some parts challenging.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a well-organized day of sightseeing, with a good mix of natural beauty, cultural activity, and street food. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but don’t want to miss the key sights of northern Taiwan. Those interested in local traditions like sky lanterns and tea drinking will find it especially rewarding.

If you prefer a slow pace or more personalized attention, this might feel a little rushed, but for most, the variety and value outweigh the busy schedule. It’s an excellent choice for solo travelers, couples, or small groups eager to explore Taiwan’s highlights with a friendly guide.

FAQs

• What is the starting point of the tour?

The tour begins at Taipei Main Station, near public transportation, at 1:30 pm.

• How long is the total duration?

The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including travel time between sites.

• Are meals included?

No, meals are not included, but you can enjoy local street food at Raohe Night Market.

• What are the main attractions?

Shifen Waterfall, Shifen Old Street (sky lantern experience), Jiufen Old Street, and Raohe Night Market.

• Is there any free cancellation?

Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• How many people typically join the tour?

The group size is limited to a maximum of 40 travelers for a comfortable experience.

• What should I wear?

Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, including rain gear if necessary.

• Is the guide bilingual?

Yes, the guide is licensed and speaks English, with many reviews highlighting their helpfulness and knowledge.

• What if the Shifen Waterfall suspension bridge is under maintenance?

An alternative route may be used, which could involve additional walking, but the waterfall remains a stunning sight.

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Taiwan’s natural and cultural riches at an accessible price. It’s especially perfect for those wanting a guided, hassle-free day to tick off some of the most beloved spots in northern Taiwan.