6 Hours Private Charter from Taipei in Shifen and Jiufen

Exploring Northern Taiwan with a Private 6-Hour Tour from Taipei

This 6-hour private charter from Taipei that takes you into the quaint towns of Shifen and Jiufen is one of those experiences that balances comfort, culture, and stunning scenery. While we haven’t done it ourselves, the overwhelming positive feedback indicates it’s a fantastic way to see some of Taiwan’s most iconic spots without the hassle of public transport or large tour groups.

What we love about this tour is its personalized approach — with a private guide and vehicle, you get to explore at your own pace, soaking in local flavors and natural beauty. The stops are well-chosen: the impressive Shifen Waterfall, the lively Shifen Old Street, and the atmospheric Jiufen Old Street. Plus, it offers good value considering the convenience, especially if you’re short on time but want a comprehensive taste of Taiwan’s highlights.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves walking through narrow, sometimes crowded streets, and the timing can be tight. If you’re expecting a very relaxed, leisurely day, you might find it a bit brisk. Still, for those who want a curated experience that hits major highlights, this tour is a smart choice.

This experience is best suited for travelers who prefer comfort, local flavor, and authentic sights over large groups. It’s also great for visitors with limited time who want to see both natural wonders and vibrant old towns in one go.

Good To Know

• Personalized Experience: Private guide and vehicle ensure flexibility and comfort.
• Natural and Cultural Highlights: Shifen Waterfall, old streets, and delicious street foods.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off included, saving you logistical stress.
• Authentic Exploration: Wander through bustling streets and enjoy local delicacies.
• Value for Money: Well-priced at $210 for a tailored half-day trip with all major stops covered.
• Weather-Ready: Operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately.

An In-Depth Look at the 6-Hour Private Tour

The Comfort of a Private Charter

Starting with hotel pickup and drop-off, this tour really prioritizes your convenience. You won’t need to fuss over transportation arrangements or navigating unfamiliar public transit. The vehicle is private, and the driver is bilingual (Japanese/English/Chinese), which makes communication straightforward. The pricing at $210 offers good value considering the personalized service, especially when you factor in the included fees like fuel, parking, and driver tips.

The tour lasts about six hours, making it a manageable half-day adventure that leaves plenty of time to relax afterward or explore Taipei further. The flexibility of a private booking means you can tailor parts of the trip to your interests or pace, which is a big plus for many travelers.

Shifen Waterfall: Nature’s Spectacle

Your first stop is Shifen Waterfall, proudly nicknamed “little Niagara” for its impressive width of 40 meters. The waterfall’s vast flow is particularly striking after rain, and the surrounding lush greenery makes for memorable photos. The entrance fee is included, so you can enjoy the view without extra costs.

We loved the way the tour allows for ample time here—about an hour to soak in the scenery, take photos, and just breathe in the fresh mountain air. Reviewers mention that the waterfall is a beautiful spot to start your day, and it’s especially accessible for most visitors.

The Charm of Shifen Old Street

After the waterfall, a brief 10-minute ride brings you into Shifen Old Street, a bustling railway town famous for its train passing directly through the streets. This is where things get lively: vendors sell local snacks like stinky tofu and peanut brittle, and you can buy your traditional lantern to release later (costs extra).

The highlight here is watching the old trains chug through the street—an authentic, slightly chaotic scene that has become a favorite for visitors. Many reviews commend the guide for explaining the history and significance of the town, adding context to the experience. You’ll have about an hour here, enough to walk along the street, pick up souvenirs, or snap photos of the train passing just meters away.

Exploring Jiufen Old Street and Its Scenic Views

Next, you’ll head to Jiufen Old Street, about an hour away, famous for its historic narrow alleys, traditional tea houses, and stunning views overlooking Keelung Port. This is the spot where you can indulge in local street foods, with the Taro Ball dessert being a standout according to reviews. It’s a sweet, chewy treat made from glutinous rice, and reviewers often mention that they find themselves buying multiple servings.

The guide generally recommends some must-try foods and offers tips on the best spots for photos of the surrounding mountains and ocean vistas. You’ll spend about an hour here, perfect for wandering, sampling snacks, and soaking in the atmospheric vibe—especially if you enjoy slightly foggy mountain scenery.

Practicalities and Tips for the Tour

The tour operates rain or shine, so packing appropriately is wise—think sturdy shoes, waterproofs if needed, and sun protection on clear days. Because the streets are narrow and sometimes crowded, physical fitness at a moderate level helps you enjoy the walk comfortably.

Children are welcome, and if under four, a child seat is provided at no extra cost—something reviewers have appreciated. The tour can accommodate small groups, with options for 1-4 or 5-7 people depending on your party size.

One potential consideration is the short amount of time at each stop—if you’re a slow explorer or want to linger longer, you might feel rushed. However, for most travelers, this pace hits a good balance between seeing the highlights and enjoying a relaxed day out.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

A reviewer named Kevin from October 2025 called it “a perfect day,” praising guide Lionel Lee for his friendliness and knowledge. He highlighted how the guide’s insights made the experience more memorable, especially at Jiufen, where local stories add depth to the walk.

Another traveler appreciated the flexibility of the private tour, noting that it allowed them to skip a stop they weren’t as interested in and spend more time at the waterfall. This underscores the advantage of private bookings—they adapt to your preferences.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private 6-hour trip is ideal for travelers wanting a hassle-free way to see key highlights of northern Taiwan without the crowds or complicated logistics. It’s perfect for those with limited time who value a personalized, guided experience that balances natural beauty and local culture.

If you’re traveling with family, small groups, or friends, the private nature makes it flexible and comfortable. It’s also well-suited for photography enthusiasts eager to capture scenic waterfalls and atmospheric old streets.

On the other hand, if you’re after a more leisurely, unstructured day or have mobility concerns, you might prefer a slightly longer or more relaxed option.

Summary: Why Choose This Tour?

This private charter offers a convenient and immersive way to explore some of Taiwan’s most iconic sights. The combination of natural beauty at Shifen Waterfall, the lively atmosphere of Shifen Old Street, and the nostalgic charm of Jiufen makes for a well-rounded half-day adventure.

The guide’s knowledge and attentiveness shine through in reviews, making the experience more than just a sightseeing trip — it’s an opportunity to learn about local culture and history from someone who truly knows the area. The inclusion of transportation, parking, and guide services justifies the cost, especially when you consider the comfort and flexibility.

For travelers seeking authentic experiences, picturesque views, and a taste of Taiwan’s heritage, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want to maximize their limited time without sacrificing quality or comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which makes logistics simple and stress-free.

How long do I spend at each stop?
You’ll have around an hour at Shifen Waterfall, an hour at Jiufen Old Street, and a bit of time at Shifen Old Street, making the overall trip about six hours in total.

What should I wear?
Dressing appropriately for weather conditions is advised. Since the tour operates in all weather, bring waterproofs if rain is forecast, and comfortable shoes for walking.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, children are welcome. For those under four, a child seat is provided. Please inform the tour provider in advance.

Can I customize this tour?
As a private experience, it offers some flexibility, but the itinerary covers specific highlights. You can discuss preferences with your guide.

What is the price of the lantern?
Lighting a lantern costs between NT150 and NT200 depending on its color, which is optional but highly recommended for the experience.

Is it suitable in bad weather?
Absolutely, since the tour operates in all weather conditions. Just dress appropriately for comfort and safety.

This 6-hour private tour from Taipei promises a well-balanced blend of natural splendor, cultural richness, and personal service, making it an excellent choice for those eager to explore northern Taiwan without the fuss of group tours or complicated planning.