Pingxi & Jiufen Day Trip: Lanterns & Old Street from Taipei (2025)

So, you’re thinking about visiting Taiwan and maybe seeing some spots outside Taipei? Good plan! That’s just great because a day trip to Pingxi and Jiufen could be a great experience, offering a fun mix of cultural experiences and beautiful sights. We’re talking sky lanterns, old streets, and yummy snacks; pretty awesome, right? If this sounds tempting, read on, because this will walk you through a review of what a Pingxi and Jiufen day trip from Taipei is like. Read our full review: Pingxi and Jiufen Day Trip Full Review and Details.

Why Choose a Pingxi and Jiufen Day Trip?

Maybe you are pondering “what’s so special about these destinations?”. Well, a day outing mixing Pingxi and Jiufen can be a total cultural immersion, is that interesting? It’s almost a leap into a Taiwan of yesteryear, combined with awesome, picture-worthy spots.

Pingxi is pretty known for its Sky Lantern Festival. I mean, yeah, that festival vibe goes all year, giving you the experience of releasing a lantern carrying your wishes up into the sky, in some respects a magical moment, right? Imagine, too, writing down what you want in the new year on a paper lantern, lighting it up and releasing it into the night sky; basically unforgettable.

Jiufen, on the flip side, offers some sensational views of the Pacific Ocean, alongside little lanes packed with food stalls and tea houses; I think you could call it super-charming. Its vibe apparently inspired a popular animated film, which adds something extra to it. Getting a walk through those lanes, nibbling tasty treats, and having those scenic views? Could be pretty special.

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What to Expect on Your Day Trip

Ok, so what’s a regular Pingxi and Jiufen day like, is that what you wanna know? Day tours tend to cover many destinations, that is, from historic train lines to bustling old streets, that sounds amazing, correct? What’s good is that most organized tours include a guide that knows everything about Taiwan’s history and culture, and will, I mean, that adds so much more significance, you know?

A trip to Pingxi will probably involve seeing the Old Pingxi Railway Line. Did you know this area once played a big spot in Taiwan’s coal mining days? Well it did! I guess along the railway, you will likely witness the Shifen Waterfall; just stunning in photos, they say.

Next you’ll go to Jiufen Old Street, where narrow walkways teem with shops selling local crafts and treats; so much to see and try. Sample things like taro balls and savor Taiwanese tea, basically, a foodie’s little slice of paradise!

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Must-See Spots and Activities

Ok, now that we know what there is to expect in general, why don’t we pinpoint some must-see landmarks and activities so we are prepped?

• Shifen Waterfall: Arguably this one goes up to the top spot in everyone’s list because its definitely an astounding sight; some are even calling it “Little Niagara.”
• Sky Lantern Experience: Is that it overhyped? No, I’m guessing not, writing your wishes on a sky lantern and releasing it has its charm and creates very great picture taking moment.
• Jiufen Old Street: A lot can be had in this old street from exploring tea houses, sampling street food and shopping local crafts. You definitely gotta try those taro balls!

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Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip

Want some ways to guarantee an awesome experience? It looks like some prep would definitely work in one’s favor:

• Wear comfy footwear: Apparently, you’re going to walk A LOT, basically cobblestone roads and uneven paths are your friends for the day.
• Get some cash on you: I mean a lot of the smaller shops and food stands mostly deal in cash.
• Keep a lookout for the weather: Taiwan may have quickly shifting weather conditions so better come equipped to prepare. Layered clothing might be a must to keep you ready for any circumstance.
• Make the most of the food chances: Do not hesitate to sample your way through regional delights, especially at Jiufen Old Street; apparently, its a foodie’s treasure trove.

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Getting There and Around

Now, when it concerns logistics, tours generally offer handy transportation coming from Taipei; I mean, that makes things a bit simpler, yeah? Nevertheless, getting around on your own is usually manageable should you choose. Here are some alternatives:

• By Train: Do the Taipei Main Station train ride all the way to Ruifang Station, where one may transfer to the Pingxi Line. Just bear in mind this will likely require transfers and perhaps a bit more travel duration.
• By Bus: Direct buses operate between Taipei and Jiufen. Check schedules; anyway, it gives some awesome cost-saving.
• Rental: A possibility to explore, but keep the roads and the parking availability in mind; this offers awesome flexibility for all destinations at your own stride.

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So, there you have it. That, is in some respects, is your Pingxi and Jiufen day trip laid out. This combo gives anyone a taste of Taiwan’s natural elegance plus its historical charm and all of that said with only a day excursion; that would be just perfect. Should this get anyone’s attention, planning for 2025 may well result in great and awesome moments! Read our full review: Pingxi and Jiufen Day Trip Full Review and Details