7-Hour Join tour – Jiufen Village & Shifen Town

Discover Taiwan’s Hidden Gems: Jiufen Village & Shifen Town Tour Review

If you’re visiting Taipei and craving a break from city life, this 7-hour small-group tour promises a relaxed way to explore Taiwan’s stunning countryside and historic towns. We’ve compiled everything you need to know, from what you’ll see to what makes this trip stand out—and, of course, how to decide if it’s right for you.

Three things we love about this experience: the intimate group size which feels more personalized, the chance to see iconic spots like Shifen Waterfall and Jiufen Old Street, and the unique activity of releasing sky lanterns—an unforgettable photo op and wish-making ritual. A possible drawback is the walking involved, which might be a challenge for travelers with limited mobility or older visitors. This tour suits those seeking a blend of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and authentic Taiwan experiences without the hassle of planning.

Key Points

• Small group size maximizes comfort and a personalized feel
• Stunning stops include Shifen Waterfall, Jiufen Old Street, and Shifen Old Street
• Affordable price offers great value considering the included transportation and guide
• Flexible activity options like sky lantern release at Shifen
• Comfortable transit in air-conditioned vehicles makes the day relaxed
• Ideal for late risers or those short on time but wanting a rich local experience

An In-Depth Look at the Jiufen & Shifen Experience

What’s Included and How It Adds Value

At just $39 per person, this tour offers a significant bang for your buck. The fee covers round-trip transport from Taipei, along with a professional guide, ensuring you get insightful commentary and smooth logistics. The air-conditioned vehicle means you stay comfortable, especially on warmer days or during rainy weather. Plus, insurance is included, giving travelers peace of mind.

While food and drinks aren’t included, the tour’s stops—like Jiufen Old Street and Shifen Old Street—are packed with tempting local delicacies you can pick up on your own for reasonable prices. The tour also provides simple requirements, such as an Easycard with NT$30 or cash, making payments easy at shops and for the sky lantern activity.

The Itinerary: A Deep Dive

Shifen Old Street (50 minutes)

Your day kicks off at Shifen Old Street, where the tracks run right through the bustling shops. You’ll see vendors selling traditional snacks, souvenirs, and, of course, the famous sky lanterns. Many reviewers, like Lindsey, appreciated the chance to write wishes on lanterns and release them into the sky—an activity that really captures Taiwan’s charming blend of tradition and fun.

One guest described the scene as a dreamy experience, noting how the lanterns make the sky literally come alive. The area is lively but not overcrowded, with enough time to browse shops or snap photos.

Shifen Waterfall – “Little Niagara” (50 minutes)

Next, you’ll visit Shifen Waterfall, often called Taiwan’s widest waterfall. The powerful cascade creates an enchanting mist and, on sunny days, the chance for rainbows. This spot is perfect for scenic photos and appreciating nature’s vigor—something that really impressed visitors like the reviewer who said the waterfall’s rainbow effect added a “magical touch.”

If you’re into photography or just love the sound of rushing water, this stop won’t disappoint. It’s also a good chance to stretch your legs before heading to Jiufen.

Jiufen Old Street (2.5 hours)

The highlight for many is Jiufen Old Street, a charming historic district that feels like stepping back in time. Cobblestone streets wind past traditional teahouses, shops, and cafes, all set against a backdrop of lush hills. The town’s architecture and atmosphere retain a nostalgic Japanese colonial vibe, making it a favorite among visitors.

We loved the way Jiufen captures Taiwan’s blend of old-world charm and local life. You can wander at your own pace, sampling snacks or just soaking up the views. One reviewer praised the tour guide’s explanations, noting how the nostalgic atmosphere made the visit especially memorable.

Authentic Taiwanese Experiences You’ll Remember

One of the tour’s real strengths is the chance to participate in local customs like releasing sky lanterns, which many find adds a personal touch to their trip. When you write your wishes on a lantern and send it off, you’re engaging in a meaningful tradition that’s become a symbol of hope and good luck.

Plus, the stops at Shifen Waterfall and Jiufen provide excellent opportunities for photography, cultural insights, and peaceful moments away from busy Taipei. The guide often shares stories about the towns’ history—such as Jiufen’s gold mining past—which adds context to the scenic sights.

What the Reviews Say

Tour guests consistently praised the knowledgeable guides, with Gabriel noting that Joana was “so nice and friendly,” helping everyone get the most out of the tour. Nvard loved how their guide Tony was “very knowledgeable” and made the experience feel more tailored to their interests.

Lindsey appreciated the clear communication before the trip and mentioned that the small group setup made the tour feel more personalized. Many travelers, especially those who prefer an intimate setting, find this aspect appealing.

Transportation and Group Size

The round-trip transfer in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle is a practical convenience, especially after a long day of walking and sightseeing. The group size, capped at 15, means you won’t feel lost in a crowd and can ask questions or customize parts of your experience. This is a major plus for travelers who prefer more interaction and tailored insights.

Duration & Timing: Perfect for Late Risers

Starting at 9:00 am from Taipei Main Station, the tour is ideal for late risers or those who prefer a relaxed start. The 7-hour window balances sightseeing with ample free time at key spots, allowing for photos, snacks, or just soaking in the atmosphere. Keep in mind, the schedule might shift slightly due to traffic or weather, but guides typically keep things on track.

Who Would Love This?

This tour is perfect for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as there’s some walking involved—especially on uneven cobblestone streets and trails at the waterfall. It’s not ideal for those with mobility issues or older travelers who find walking challenging. However, the pace is relaxed, and stops are frequent.

It also suits people short on time but wanting a meaningful peek into Taiwan’s scenic and cultural highlights outside Taipei. Food lovers will appreciate the opportunity to explore local vendors, even if meals are on your own.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after an affordable and well-organized way to see some of Taiwan’s most photogenic spots, this tour delivers. It hits a good balance between scenic beauty, cultural authenticity, and personal touches like sky lanterns. The small group format makes it feel intimate and flexible, ideal for travelers who prefer a more relaxed, conversational vibe.

The guide’s knowledge, along with the chance to experience local traditions, elevates the trip beyond just sightseeing. Plus, the stops at Shifen and Jiufen are favorites for anyone looking to see Taiwan’s nostalgic side—complete with winding streets, waterfalls, and stunning hilltop views.

While it’s a day packed with walking and activity, most travelers found it manageable and rewarding. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a repeat traveler craving a deeper local connection, this experience offers a beautiful glimpse into Taiwan’s scenic towns.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides round-trip transportation from Taipei in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, making the day hassle-free.

What do I need to bring?
Bring some cash or an Easycard with at least NT$30 for small purchases and the sky lantern activity. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to the walking involved.

Can I participate in the sky lantern release?
Yes, you can write wishes on lanterns and release them at Shifen Old Street, a popular and meaningful activity included in the experience.

How long do we spend at each stop?
You’ll have about 50 minutes at Shifen Old Street and Waterfall, and approximately 2.5 hours exploring Jiufen Old Street.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children are welcome if accompanied by an adult, but keep in mind the walking and activity levels, which may not suit very young kids or those with mobility issues.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for older travelers?
It depends on mobility—those who find walking or uneven terrain challenging might find it less suitable, but the pace is generally relaxed.

Final Words

This tour offers a compelling way to see Taiwan’s scenic and cultural highlights beyond Taipei’s cityscape. With its small-group setup, knowledgeable guides, and a mix of nature and tradition, it’s especially well-suited for travelers seeking authentic experiences without a hectic schedule.

If you’re interested in stunning waterfalls, nostalgic streets, and the joy of releasing sky lanterns, this experience will likely be a memorable highlight of your Taiwan trip. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring your camera, and prepare for a day full of picturesque moments and cultural insights.