Top Things to Do in Jiufen, Taiwan: A Complete Travel Guide

August 24, 2025/Last Updated September 17, 2025

Reading Time: 4 minutes

Nestled in the mountains of northeastern Taiwan, Jiufen is one of the most enchanting destinations in the country. Known for its historic alleyways, glowing lanterns, and panoramic views of the Pacific, this once-forgotten gold mining town has become a must-visit for travelers looking to experience the nostalgic charm of old Taiwan.

Whether you’re planning a day trip or considering spending the night in a cozy Jiufen hotel, this guide covers the top things to do in Jiufen — from iconic food to breathtaking hikes.

Planning a trip to Jiufen? Browse top Jiufen tours & experiences here.

Explore Jiufen Old Street (九份老街)

The heartbeat of Jiufen is undoubtedly Old Street, a narrow lane packed with local snacks, crafts, and souvenir shops. It’s easy to lose yourself among stalls selling taro balls, grilled squid, peanut ice cream rolls, and herbal rice cakes.

Wander through the alleyways and follow your nose — the aroma of sweet potato balls and bubble tea is irresistible. Whether you’re visiting for the day or staying in a hotel in Jiufen, Taiwan, Old Street is the perfect place to begin your journey.

Nighttime view of Jiufen, Taiwan, featuring illuminated red lanterns, lush greenery, and traditional wooden architecture along a narrow alley. — Photo by Marek Piwnicki

Visit a Traditional Jiufen Tea House

No visit to Jiufen is complete without spending time at a traditional tea house. The most iconic is A-Mei Teahouse, perched on the hillside and rumored to have inspired scenes from Spirited Away. With red lanterns, intricate woodwork, and spectacular views, it’s easy to see why.

Skip the line at Taipei’s famous tea houses — reserve your tea experience in advance.

Reserve a seat near the window, order a pot of high mountain oolong, and let time slow down. Many hotels in Jiufen are just a short walk from tea houses like this, making it easy to enjoy an evening tea session without watching the clock.

Hike the Keelung Mountain Trail

If you love hiking, the Keelung Mountain Trail offers one of the best panoramic views in the region. It’s a relatively short but steep climb, taking around 30–45 minutes to reach the summit.

Love hiking? Check out guided hikes around Jiufen.

Sunrise and sunset are particularly magical. Staying overnight in a Jiufen hotel means you can start your hike early and avoid the daytime crowds. Don’t forget your camera — on a clear day, you can see the entire coastline stretching far into the distance.

A traditional pagoda structure with a curved roof, surrounded by greenery, with people enjoying the view in the background. — Photo by Markus Winkler

Step Back in Time at the Jiufen Gold Museum

Once a bustling gold mining town, Jiufen has preserved its history well. Visit the Gold Museum in nearby Jinguashi to learn about the region’s mining past. You can even walk through original mining tunnels and try lifting a real 220kg gold bar.

Interested in Taiwan’s history? Join a Jiufen & Jinguashi culture tour.

History lovers should also stop by Shengping Theater, Jiufen’s original cinema built in the 1930s. The interior is beautifully preserved, and it offers a glimpse into life during Taiwan’s Japanese colonial era.

Enjoy the Lantern-Lit Jiufen Night View

Jiufen is famous for its night views — and for good reason. As the sun sets, the streets are illuminated by hundreds of red lanterns, casting a magical glow over the stone paths and staircases.

Want the best lantern-lit views? Book an evening Jiufen tour from Taipei.

The best photo spots are the stairs next to A-Mei Teahouse and the lookout terraces scattered throughout the village. If you’re staying in a Jiufen hotel, you’ll have the luxury of enjoying the view long after the day-trippers have left.

Close-up of illuminated red lanterns with Chinese characters, set against a blurred background of a traditional building in Jiufen, Taiwan. — Photo by Marek Piwnicki

Taste Local Snacks and Sweets

Food is a huge part of the Jiufen experience. Some must-try items include:

Ah Gan Yi Taro Balls – chewy, colorful, and served hot or cold
Grilled mushrooms and sausages – smoky street-side bites
Sweet potato balls – slightly crispy outside, gooey inside
Fish ball soup – a savory staple

Dinner options are more limited after 7 p.m., so it’s a good idea to eat early or choose a Jiufen hotel that includes dinner or is located near an open restaurant.

Don’t miss Jiufen’s street food — join a backstreet food tour with a local guide.

Take a Side Trip to Nearby Attractions

Jiufen is perfectly positioned for exploring the surrounding region. If you’re staying more than one night, consider visiting:

Jinguashi – home to the Gold Ecological Park and beautiful hiking trails
Yin Yang Sea – known for its surreal yellow-blue coloring
Golden Waterfall – cascading streams of mineral-rich water
Shifen Waterfall – Taiwan’s most famous waterfall, perfect for a half-day trip

There’s this tour that includes Yeliou, Jinguashih, Juifen and Shihfen as a day tour.

Many Jiufen hotels can help you book transfers or recommend drivers for easy day trips.

Where to Stay in Jiufen

From traditional guesthouses to boutique stays with mountain views, there are many hotels in Jiufen to choose from. If you’re not sure where to start, I’ve written a detailed guide to help you find the right place:

👉 Read: Best Jiufen Hotels – Where to Stay in Jiufen, Taiwan

Staying overnight in Jiufen means you can relax into Jiufen’s quiet evenings, enjoy a slow morning tea, and explore without rushing back to Taipei.

A scenic view of Jiufen, Taiwan, featuring traditional buildings illuminated by lanterns at dusk, nestled against a lush mountain backdrop. — Photo by Emman Marcial

FAQ: Visiting Jiufen, Taiwan

Is Jiufen worth staying overnight?

Absolutely. Jiufen becomes quieter and more atmospheric in the evening. Staying overnight in a Jiufen hotel lets you enjoy it at a more relaxed pace.

What’s the best time to visit Jiufen?

Fall and spring are ideal for cool weather and clear views. Weekdays are best to avoid crowds.

How do I get to Jiufen from Taipei?

Take a train to Ruifang Station, then transfer to a local bus or taxi directly to Jiufen. The trip takes around 90 minutes.

Are there any budget hotels in Jiufen?

Yes. Jiufen offers a range of accommodations including budget guesthouses and hostels. Many provide great value with scenic views.

Final Thoughts

Jiufen is more than just a photogenic destination — it’s a place to slow down, savor, and soak in a unique part of Taiwan’s cultural and natural beauty. From hiking mountain trails to sipping tea in lantern-lit cafes, there’s so much to explore.

To make the most of your visit, I recommend spending at least one night in a hotel in Jiufen, Taiwan. It’s the best way to experience the village’s quiet magic once the crowds have gone home.

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Linda

Linda has been living in Asia since 2012 and loves sharing her travel and life experiences on her website. She currently works remotely in Online Marketing and also teaches various English classes in South Korea.