Jiufen, Shifen and Houtong Cat Village Private Tour

Experience the Charm of Northern Taiwan with a Private Tour of Jiufen, Shifen & Houtong Cat Village

Considering a day trip that hits some of Taiwan’s most beloved spots? This private tour covering Jiufen Old Street, Shifen Waterfall and Old Street, and Houtong Cat Village offers a balanced mix of culture, nature, and adorable felines—all in a manageable 7 hours. With excellent reviews praising guides, flexibility, and stunning sights, it’s clear this outing delivers real value for a fair price of $110 per person.

What we love about this experience is the comfort of private transportation, the chance to see Jiufen’s scenic streets without the hassle of public transit, and the joy of releasing a sky lantern in Pingxi. Plus, the guides seem to go the extra mile — reviewers mention guides like Vincent, James, and Victor making the day engaging, fun, and tailored to each group. One thing to consider is that during busy times, some stops may feel a bit rushed, especially the lantern release and waterfall visit. However, if you’re after a flexible, stress-free day exploring some of Taiwan’s top spots with a knowledgeable guide, this tour is a great choice.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who want an authentic experience, enjoy scenic views, and appreciate local culture. Whether you’re a first-timer or a repeat visitor eager to see the highlights comfortably, this tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of Taiwan’s northern treasures.

Good To Know

• Comfortable private transport makes moving between sites seamless and relaxing.
• Expert guides personalize the experience, share local tips, and accommodate special needs.
• Scenic stops like Shifen Waterfall and Jiufen Old Street offer picture-perfect moments and cultural insights.
• The lantern release in Pingxi is an emotional highlight, with many reviewers describing it as “touching” and “beautiful.”
• Houtong Cat Village provides a charming, feline-filled break from the crowds.
• Value for money is evident, with a full day of sightseeing for just $110, including guide and transportation.

In-Depth Review of the Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting with hotel pickup in Taipei, the tour sets the tone for a hassle-free adventure. No need to worry about navigating busy public transport or parking — your private driver takes care of that. The first stop is Shifen Waterfall, an impressive cascade on the Keelung River. Travelers consistently mention how stunning the waterfall is — “like a painting,” according to one reviewer. With about 50 minutes here, you can enjoy the view, take photos, or simply soak in the peaceful surroundings. Entry is free, making it a great budget-friendly highlight.

Next, you’ll stroll through Shifen Old Street, a lively lane filled with local snack stalls and quaint shops. This is where you can participate in the iconic sky lantern tradition, a touching moment for many. Reviewers note the lantern experience is often quick — “about 5 minutes” — but well worth it. Some mention the decorating process can take around 10 minutes, so plan your timing accordingly if you want to savor every second.

Then, the focus shifts to Houtong Cat Village, about an hour away. This former mining town has transformed into a cat lover’s paradise, with plenty of fluffy residents wandering the streets. “We fed cats, and even enjoyed a little cake at a cozy cafe,” one reviewer recalls. Guides like Vincent and Chao Chiao (Chiao Chiao) personally show visitors the best spots for photos and cat encounters, making this stop a highlight for animal lovers. The laid-back vibe provides a gentle contrast to the busier tourist spots.

The afternoon is reserved for Jiufen Old Street, a winding alleyway famous for its nostalgic charm, teahouses, and food stalls. With about 2 hours here, you’ll have time to explore independently, sample street snacks, and enjoy views over the mountains and sea. Reviewers repeatedly mention how guides like James and Sean helped uncover hidden gems — “a great tea house behind a tunnel,” or “local food spots with delicious stinky tofu.” This is Taiwan at its most atmospheric, with narrow lanes lined with traditional storefronts and tea houses that have been operating for generations.

Finally, the tour concludes with a visit to Shifen Waterfall and the quaint Shifen Old Street area once more, rounding out a day filled with scenic beauty, cultural insights, and memorable experiences. The driver then returns you comfortably to your Taipei hotel, ending the day on a high.

What You’ll Experience and Why It Matters

Private transportation is key here — it allows flexibility and comfort, especially when moving between sites with different access challenges. Many reviews highlight how this made the day more relaxed, with guides often accommodating special needs or extra stops. The overall pace is designed to balance sightseeing with leisure, although some travelers feel certain stops are a little rushed during peak seasons, like the lantern release or waterfall visit.

Guides like Vincent, James, and Chao Chiao play a significant role in elevating the experience. Reviewers praise their knowledge, friendliness, and willingness to go beyond the expected. For example, one noted how their guide took extra care with photos and shared interesting tidbits that aren’t in the guidebooks. The ability to ask questions and get personalized suggestions makes all the difference, especially in a city where so much can be overwhelming on your own.

The scenery at Shifen Waterfall and Jiufen Old Street is genuinely breathtaking. You’ll see lush greenery, mountains, and traditional architecture that look like scenes from a movie. Many guests mention that even on a busy day, the views remain spectacular. The sky lantern release in Pingxi is a highlight, with many describing it as a deeply emotional, almost nostalgic experience — “a moment to remember forever,” one reviewer said.

Houtong Cat Village offers a more laid-back, quirky experience. The village’s transformation from a mining town to a cat haven is evident in the murals, cafes, and resident cats roaming freely. Animal lovers will appreciate the chance to interact with friendly cats, feed them, and snap adorable photos.

Jiufen Old Street is a feast for the senses. From the aroma of Taiwanese street snacks to the sight of traditional teahouses, this area captures the essence of old Taiwan. The guide’s local tips can lead you to hidden tea houses or lesser-known snack stalls, making your visit more authentic.

Analyzing the Value

At $110 per person, this tour offers a full day’s worth of sightseeing, personalized guidance, and transportation — all without the hassle of public transit or self-driving. Many reviews highlight the excellent guides, such as James and Vincent, who seem genuinely committed to making the day special. The inclusion of the sky lantern experience and all transportation costs adds to the overall value, especially considering the convenience of pickup and drop-off in Taipei.

While some guests mention the day feeling a bit rushed — particularly during busy holiday periods — the overall consensus is that the tour hits the right balance between structured sightseeing and free exploration. The ability to customize or spend extra time at certain spots, when possible, makes this an appealing choice for most travelers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private experience is ideal for those who want a worry-free day exploring Taiwan’s scenic spots without the stress of navigating public transport. It’s particularly suited for travelers who value guided insights, comfort, and flexibility, whether they’re first-time visitors or seasoned explorers. Animal lovers and photography enthusiasts will especially enjoy the stops at Houtong and Jiufen, while those interested in local culture will appreciate the storytelling and tips from the guides.

Couples, small groups, or families with children will find this tour accommodating, thanks to private transport and a flexible itinerary. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, or you’re visiting during peak seasons and want to avoid crowds, this guided tour offers a good blend of efficiency and authenticity.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off in Taipei, making the experience more convenient and stress-free.

What’s included in the price?
Private transportation, guide (English and Mandarin speaking), fuel, parking, tolls, and the lantern flying experience are all included.

Are meals or drinks covered?
No, meals and beverages are not included, so plan to bring snacks or plan for lunch during your free time.

How long is each stop?
Stops vary from about 50 minutes at Shifen Waterfall and Old Street, to around an hour at Houtong Cat Village, and approximately 2 hours at Jiufen Old Street.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera are recommended. If visiting during the rainy season, an umbrella might come in handy.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
Yes, the private nature allows guides to accommodate different needs. Many reviews mention how guides like Jackson tailored the experience for seniors and children.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, there’s some flexibility. You might be able to spend more or less time at certain stops, depending on your preferences.

How long does the entire tour last?
Approximately 7 hours, including pickup and drop-off.

Is there a difference in experience during peak travel seasons?
Yes, some reviewers noted that crowds, especially at Jiufen and Shifen, can make some parts feel rushed. Traveling during less busy times might offer a more relaxed pace.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead guarantees availability and allows you to choose a preferred guide or specific needs.

In Summary

This private tour of Jiufen, Shifen, and Houtong Cat Village offers a well-rounded taste of Taiwan’s scenic beauty, cultural richness, and adorable wildlife. With knowledgeable guides, seamless transportation, and thoughtful stops, it delivers great value and authentic experiences for travelers seeking comfort and discovery. It’s best suited for those who want flexibility, enjoy storytelling, and love capturing memorable moments with stunning views and cute cats. While a few may find the pace a little quick during busy seasons, overall, this tour provides a flexible, fun, and culturally immersive day out in Taiwan’s north.

Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, this tour can be tailored to suit your interests, making it a solid choice for exploring Taiwan’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.