New Taipei City Tour| Yehliu, Jiufen & Shifen Day Tour

A Practical and Authentic Look at the New Taipei City Tour: Yehliu, Jiufen & Shifen

Traveling to Taiwan and looking to get a genuine taste of its iconic sights? This New Taipei City Tour offers a well-rounded day exploring some of the region’s most famous spots, all for a reasonable price of $35 per person. While it promises a day packed with natural wonders, charming old towns, and cultural experiences, it’s worth knowing what to expect so you can decide if it aligns with your travel style.

We particularly appreciate the tour’s value for money, the chance to see Yehliu’s unique rock formations, and the atmospheric lantern-lit alleys of Jiufen. The opportunity to witness Taiwan’s famous sky lantern tradition at Shifen also adds a memorable touch. However, a potential caveat is that the schedule can feel a bit rushed, especially during busy periods when traffic and crowds slow things down.

This tour is best suited for first-time visitors, families, or couples who want a straightforward, guided experience of Taiwan’s highlights without the hassle of planning individual transport. If you’re short on time but eager to see a good slice of Taipei’s surroundings, this could be a perfect fit. Now, let’s unpack what makes this tour worth considering — and where it might leave you wanting more.

Good To Know

• Affordable price offers good value for a full day of sightseeing.
• Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort throughout the day.
• Visit diverse attractions: Yehliu Geopark’s geological marvels, Jiufen’s nostalgic streets, and Shifen’s waterfall and lantern tradition.
• Rushed schedule means you’ll need to move quickly at each stop.
• Guided tour adds informative insights but may lack the flexibility of a self-guided visit.
• Weather and traffic can influence the day’s flow; always check the forecast.

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Yehliu Geopark: Marvel at Natural Sculptures

The tour kicks off early at Yehliu Geopark, renowned for its striking rock formations shaped by natural forces over thousands of years. The Queen’s Head, perhaps the most famous formation, stands out with its distinctive shape that seems to resemble a queen’s profile. Expect about 70 minutes here, which is enough to snap photos, walk the scenic pathways, and appreciate the geological oddities.

While the admission fee of TWD120 per person isn’t included in the price, it’s a small extra for such a spectacular outdoor exhibit. Some reviewers note it’s a bit rushed, given the 1 hour 10-minute window, but it’s generally enough to see the highlights. If you’re a geology buff or just love stunning natural landscapes, Yehliu offers a unique, almost alien-like scenery that’s worth the quick stop.

Jiufen: Nostalgic Streets and Tasty Snacks

Following Yehliu, the tour moves to Jiufen, a beloved mountain town once famed for gold mining. Here, you’ll wander lantern-lit alleys, full of quaint tea houses and shops selling local snacks like sweet potato balls and herbal teas. The two-hour visit is the longest stop, giving you time to soak in the atmosphere, browse souvenirs, and maybe snap some photos of the iconic mountain vistas.

Reviewers mention that Jiufen’s charming streets and vivid atmosphere are highlights, though the experience can be a bit rushed during peak times. You’ll love the chance to stroll through streets that seem to have stepped out of a movie set, but keep in mind that the tour’s limited time might restrict your experience of hidden corners or favorite snack stalls.

Shifen Waterfall: Taiwan’s Little Niagara

Next, the group heads to Shifen Waterfall, often called Taiwan’s Little Niagara thanks to its stunning cascade. The 50-minute stop allows for a brief walk along the river and some impressive viewpoints of the multi-tiered waterfall. The natural setting here provides a peaceful contrast to the bustling streets earlier in the day.

This stop is free of charge, and many enjoy the serenity of the surroundings. Some reviewers point out that, despite the brief time, the waterfall’s impressive size makes it a worthwhile photo opportunity and a chance to stretch the legs.

Shifen Old Street: Lanterns and Heritage

The last major stop is Shifen Old Street, famous for its sky lantern tradition. You can write your wishes on a lantern and release it into the sky, a symbolic gesture that’s become world-famous. The tour mentions lanterns are optional and cost between TWD200 and TWD300 if you choose to participate — a small extra for this memorable experience.

This part of the tour lasts about an hour, giving you enough time to buy souvenirs, enjoy street snacks, and partake in the lantern ritual. One reviewer noted that the guide held a red flag labeled “R Day Tour” to help keep the group together, which is helpful in the crowded streets.

Transportation & Practicalities

The tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle, making the roughly 9-hour journey comfortable despite the full schedule. It’s designed to balance sightseeing with travel time, but keep in mind that traffic and weather can influence timing and flow.

The group size is capped at 20, which helps maintain a cozy atmosphere but still keeps the experience lively. The tour departs from Ximen Station at 8:30 AM, with a meet-up outside Exit 5 at 8:15 AM, so arriving a bit early is recommended.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The professional guide provides insights along the way, enhancing your understanding of each stop. You’ll also benefit from liability insurance for peace of mind. However, the flying lantern isn’t included in the price, and you’ll need to pay separately if you want to participate.

Additional Tips

• Arrive 15 minutes early to ensure smooth boarding.
• Bring passport details for booking and identification.
• You can carry one large piece of luggage plus a small carry-on, which is helpful if you’re traveling to or from Taipei.
• The tour is not suitable for those with limited mobility, given the walking involved and the sometimes uneven terrain.

Authentic Experiences and Reviewer Insights

While the overall review score is 4 out of 5, some comments highlight aspects worth noting. One traveler appreciated the “nice trip until the end,” but mentioned it felt very rushed at times. They expressed disappointment that some people were left behind at the end, which underscores the importance of staying close and being punctual.

Another point from reviews is that the lantern experience at Shifen was a highlight — a “good experience” that made the day memorable. The natural beauty at Yehliu and the atmospheric streets of Jiufen also stood out as authentic Taiwan experiences.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for first-timers who want a guided overview of Taipei’s nearby highlights without the stress of planning transport or tickets. It’s also suitable for families or couples looking for a value-packed day with memorable sights and experiences.

If you’re after a more relaxed pace or want to explore each location in depth, this might feel a bit rushed. Those with limited mobility or a desire for more personalized exploration may prefer a DIY approach or a private tour.

Final Thoughts

For a cost-conscious traveler, this tour offers great value, covering three iconic spots with a helpful guide and comfortable transport. It’s a solid choice if your main goal is to tick off major sights efficiently, especially if you’re short on time or visiting Taiwan for the first time.

However, remember that the schedule is tight, and some stops might feel hurried. The authenticity of the experience depends on your expectations — you’ll get a taste of Yehliu’s geological marvels, Jiufen’s nostalgic charm, and Shifen’s scenic waterfall and lantern tradition, but not necessarily the chance to explore each thoroughly.

Ultimately, it’s a reliable, convenient option for those wanting to see Taiwan’s highlights without the hassle—just be prepared for a fast-paced day.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours and 15 minutes, including travel time and stops.

What is the meeting point?
You meet outside Exit 5 of MRT Ximen Station in Taipei at 8:15 AM for a prompt departure at 8:30 AM.

Is admission to Yehliu Geopark included?
No, the admission fee of TWD120 per person needs to be paid separately at Yehliu.

Can I participate in the sky lantern release?
Yes, lanterns are optional. If you choose to release one, expect to pay between TWD200 and TWD300.

How many people are in each group?
The group size is limited to 20 travelers, which balances intimacy with a lively atmosphere.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the journey is in an air-conditioned vehicle, which makes the long day more pleasant.

Is there a refund policy?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring passport details, some cash for optional extras, and comfortable shoes for walking.

Whether you’re after a quick but comprehensive glimpse of Taiwan’s northeast or looking to tick off must-see sights with ease, this tour balances value with authentic experiences. Just remember, a bit of pace and patience will ensure you enjoy what the day has to offer.