7-Hour Join tour – Jiufen Village & Shifen Town

Travelers visiting Taipei often find themselves caught in the hustle and bustle of the city, but stepping away for a day to smaller towns like Jiufen and Shifen reveals a more relaxed, picturesque side of Taiwan. This 7-hour guided tour from Taipei offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural history, and local flavors—all comfortably wrapped into a small-group experience that keeps things intimate and engaging.

What we love about this tour? First, it’s value-packed, giving you a comprehensive taste of some of Taiwan’s most photogenic spots without breaking the bank. Second, the knowledgeable guides help bring the history and stories behind each location alive, making every stop more meaningful. Third, the small group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace, perfect for those who prefer a more authentic experience.

One thing to consider is the physical activity involved—the tour does require a good amount of walking and navigating cobblestone streets, so it might not be ideal for those with mobility issues. Nevertheless, the overall experience is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for most travelers. This tour is especially fitting for those with limited time in Taipei, who want to see beyond the city’s skyline and dive into Taiwan’s scenic and cultural highlights.

Good To Know

• Small-group experience with a maximum of 15 travelers creates a comfortable, personalized atmosphere.
• Comprehensive itinerary covers Jiufen’s nostalgic streets, Shifen Old Street, waterfalls, and sky lanterns.
• Affordable price point of $39 offers great value for a full day of sightseeing.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with insightful commentary and local knowledge.
• Flexible timing allows for a relaxed exploration without rush, with options to try local foods independently.
• Transport is included, making the logistics stress-free, with round-trip transfers from Taipei.

What to Expect from the Tour

Meet in Taipei and Head Out in Comfort

Your day begins early with a meeting point at Taipei Main Station, where you’ll hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The small-group format promises a warm, friendly atmosphere and easier movement through the scenic spots. The tour kicks off at 9:00 am, giving you plenty of time to relax and get ready for a day of exploration.

Shifen Old Street: The Train Tracks and Sky Lanterns

First stop: Shifen Old Street, a lively, historic street running alongside active train tracks. As you stroll past traditional shops selling snacks, souvenirs, and local crafts, you’ll notice the quirky charm of a place that feels both timeless and bustling. Visitors love trying local snacks (at their own expense), but the real highlight is the chance to release a sky lantern. Legend has it that writing wishes on a lantern and letting it fly brings good luck—an experience reviewers describe as both fun and deeply symbolic.

Shifen Waterfall: Nature’s Little Niagara

Next, you’ll visit Shifen Waterfall, often called the “Little Niagara of Taiwan.” This spectacular cascade is the widest waterfall in Taiwan, with waters that crash down with enough force to create beautiful rainbows on sunny days. Reviewers frequently mention how the mist and lush surroundings make it a magical photo spot—even in light rain. The 50-minute stop offers time to snap pictures, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the scenery, making it perfect for nature lovers or those seeking a peaceful break from urban life.

Jiufen Old Street: Nostalgia and Views

The final and most iconic stop: Jiufen Old Street, a labyrinth of cobblestone lanes, teahouses, and traditional shops. The town’s architecture reflects its Japanese colonial past, with lanterns and nostalgic signs adding to its charm. As one review mentioned, “Jiufen’s streets and architecture retain a distinctly nostalgic atmosphere,” making it a photographer’s dream. During the 2.5-hour visit, you can wander freely, sample local treats, and absorb the old-world vibe.

Food, Souvenirs, and Cultural Highlights

While food isn’t included in the price, you’ll find plenty of stalls offering local delicacies and snacks—think taro balls, tea eggs, and sweet pastries. Reviewers have especially enjoyed tasting the regional flavors at Jiufen, with one noting the variety of delicious street food available. For those interested, the sky lantern experience at Shifen can be personalized with your wishes written on paper before release.

Return to Taipei

The tour wraps up back at the original meeting point, with plenty of time to rest or explore more on your own afterward. The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, striking a good balance between sightseeing and leisurely exploration.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At just $39 per person, this tour combines transportation, a professional guide, and entry to key locations—offering a budget-friendly way to see some of Taiwan’s most picturesque spots. The small-group setting not only enhances comfort but also ensures you’ll get tailored insights that larger, busier tours often miss. Many reviews praise guides like Jerry, Tito Steve, and Tony for their friendly, helpful approach and their ability to highlight local stories and tips, enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Transportation and Timing

Round-trip transit from Taipei in a private, air-conditioned vehicle gives you comfort and convenience, especially after a morning in the city. The timing is well planned, allowing enough time at each stop without feeling rushed—something many travelers appreciate, as a review from Marlyn noted, “each location was given the appropriate amount of time.”

Physical Considerations

Given the walking involved on cobblestone streets and uneven terrain, the tour is best suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness. If you have mobility issues or prefer a very relaxed pace, you might want to consider this before booking. However, the overall route isn’t overly strenuous, and guides are attentive to those who need assistance.

Highlights from Real Travelers

Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, with comments like “Pauline was excellent, well-organized, and communicative,” and “Joana was so friendly and helpful.” The stunning scenery, especially at Shifen Waterfall and Jiufen’s streets, receives frequent mention. Many appreciate the value for money, describing it as a “great trip for the whole family,” with some noting it as perfect even for those who find walking challenging.

The food experiences, while not included, are highlighted as a fun part of the trip, especially at Jiufen’s bustling stalls. Reviewers particularly enjoyed sampling local treats and appreciated the small-group atmosphere for more personalized service.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors to Taipei who want a quick, yet rich, experience of Taiwan’s scenic and cultural highlights. It’s perfect for those who enjoy natural beauty, small-group intimacy, and cultural history. Since the tour involves a fair amount of walking, it’s best suited for travelers with moderate fitness levels.

It also works well for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a hassle-free day out without the worry of transportation logistics or crowded tours. Budget-conscious travelers will find it offers excellent value—especially considering the included transport and guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included? No, the tour starts at Taipei Main Station.
Can I bring children? Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult.
What should I bring? Bring cash or an Easycard (NT$30 minimum) for snacks, souvenirs, or lantern releases.
Is food included? No, but there are plenty of stalls at Jiufen and Shifen for snacks and small meals.
How long is the walking involved? The tour involves quite a bit of walking, especially at Jiufen and Shifen Old Street.
What if the weather is bad? The tour may be canceled or rescheduled in poor weather; you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Is the tour suitable for seniors? While many reviews mention it’s accessible, it involves some walking and uneven surfaces, so consider this before booking.

The 7-hour Jiufen & Shifen tour offers an engaging mix of Taiwan’s natural beauty, nostalgic streets, and local culture—all in a manageable, affordable package. Its small-group format and knowledgeable guides elevate what could otherwise be a standard sightseeing outing, bringing out authentic stories and tips along the way.

If you’re after a well-organized day trip that balances scenic views, cultural insights, and fun experiences like sky lanterns, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s especially suited for travelers seeking a value-rich, authentic glimpse into Taiwan’s charming towns without the hassle of planning every detail.

Perfect for those who want a leisurely exploration, appreciative of good guides, and eager to enjoy Taiwan’s scenic countryside, this tour promises a memorable day outside the city buzz—one you’ll talk about long after you’re back home.