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About Jiufen

Including tips for the best time to visit Jiufen

Once a gold mining town, today Jiufen is a seaside travel destination often visited as a getaway from Taipei. A trip to this Taiwanese town is all about scenic mountainous backdrops, cosy teahouses and narrow alleyways lit up with golden lanterns.

When visiting Jiufen, you can’t miss a walk around the Jiufen Old Street, a vibrant district packed with food stalls, cafés and souvenir shops. You can enjoy some Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings) or a local beer in the company of mountain and sea views. One of the places that ought to be on your Jiufen itinerary is the Amei teahouse – a historic spot where you can indulge in tea tastings and admire the Japanese-style architecture. As you wander around the city, look out for eateries serving taro balls and peanut ice cream rolls – two of the town’s favourite snacks.

Though Jiufen is tucked away in the Ruifang District of Taiwan, it is easily accessible via multiple modes of transport. You can take a direct bus or hire a taxi from Taipei and enjoy a one-hour drive along the winding roads that lead to this town. Alternatively, take a train up to Ruifang Station and then complete your journey to Jiufen by bus.

Tonight

From £32 per night

This weekend

From £69 per night

Next weekend

From £69 per night

Most popular time to visit October–December
Cheapest time to visit January–March
Local currency TWD 100 = £2.47
Language Cantonese
Average weekend price £81 per night
Average weekday price £73 per night
Typical stay 1 night

Jiufen reviews

What other travellers say about Jiufen

10

I would have rated this a 10 for stay if it was just a tad...

22 March 2024

I would have rated this a 10 for stay if it was just a tad easier to locate. In saying that, once the property was located, the location was perfect. Host was lovely and highly recommend this place. A very cosy, clean and comfortable stay.

Hanh
Hanh Australia
8.0

If you don't like crowded areas, Jiufen is not for you.

15 February 2024

If you don't like crowded areas, Jiufen is not for you. The Jiufen old street is so narrow that you can only take some few mini steps at a time. If you were to come here, I'd suggest you to book your stay in Jiufen for the night, come in the late afternoon, perhaps go on the night walking tour, and then enjoy the views and Jiufen Old street in the early morning before all of the tourists come flooding in.

Yuki
Yuki Italy
10

We went to Jiufen in January (winter time).

20 January 2024

We went to Jiufen in January (winter time). As malaysians, we immensly enjoyed the milder temperatures and the lack of rain during this time, considering we came form a hot, humid country with torrential rain on a daily basis. So, our timing for visiting Jiufen was perfect for us. Jiufen can be quite crowded at times but our stay at night made all the difference. less crowd, magical red lights and the night market was amazing. It was famous for the Amei teahouse but i think Jiufen is more than that. To find gems in other things, I'd recommend staying in Jiufen overnight.

Liyana
Liyana Malaysia
10

The village is absolutely charming, only need one night here.

5 January 2024

The village is absolutely charming, only need one night here. In the evening it gets very busy but the teahouse (Jiufen teahouse) was very quiet. Lots of interesting food to try. Incredible views. Lots of hiking trails nearby. Easy to get a bus from Taipei there and back (and cheap) - you just tap on and tap off with your card.

Hannah
Hannah United Kingdom
10

As I strolled through the winding narrow lanes, surrounded...

3 January 2024

As I strolled through the winding narrow lanes, surrounded by souvenir shops, traditional snacks, sweet treats, and Taiwanese cuisine restaurants, I found myself immersed in the charm of an old market perched atop the mountain with a breathtaking view of the bay on the north coast. The bustling market came alive, especially during the late weekend mornings when the narrow lanes echoed with the footsteps of tourists. To savor the experience without the crowd, I recommend arriving early and soaking in the authentic atmosphere. A must-try activity is settling into a cozy terrace seat, sipping on aromatic oolong tea while gazing out at the panoramic beauty of the bay area. The tranquility of the moment adds a touch of serenity to the vibrant surroundings. Accessing this hidden gem is surprisingly easy via public transport. Opt for a bus from Ruifang train station or downtown Taipei, Zhongli train station, making the journey convenient and delightful. With just an hour's travel from downtown Taipei, this mountain-top market promises a memorable escape from the bustling city life, offering a perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and scenic beauty.

Kanpoj Katephikulngern
Kanpoj Katephikulngern Thailand
10

Jiufen was fantastic.

20 November 2023

Jiufen was fantastic. If you come to Taiwan and hear about the old streets and food market, this is the best combo of both worlds on all accounts. Parking is an issue, so I highly recommend you Uber or bus or get dropped off. If you do find parking, it can be expensive, but driving in the area is a little tight, but it is doable. Many hotels in area will make you use that parking and then have to lug your luggage up many flights of stairs. If that’s the case, pack light. But if there’s one thing you do in Taiwan, this is it.

Ryan
Ryan United States

Popular places to stay in Jiufen

Stay in some of the best accommodation Jiufen has to offer