Taipei: Jiufen, Shifen Sky Lanterns & Keelung Nightmarket

Planning a trip to Taiwan and looking for a way to see some of its most iconic sights without the hassle of organizing transport or guides? This private tour from Taipei offers a well-rounded taste of northern Taiwan’s highlights, combining scenic views, cultural experiences, and delicious street food—all in one day.

We love how this experience balances structured sightseeing with enough flexibility to enjoy each stop at your own pace. The trip’s highlights, like releasing sky lanterns in Shifen or wandering through Jiufen’s nostalgic alleys, make it feel more like an authentic local adventure rather than a crowded tourist trap.

One consideration? It’s a full 12-hour day, so some travelers might find it a bit tiring—especially if you’re not accustomed to long excursions. Still, it’s perfect for those eager to maximize their time and see a diverse slice of Taiwan’s scenery and culture in just one trip. If you’re a curious traveler who loves food, scenic vistas, and cultural quirks, this tour hits all those marks.

Good To Know

Balanced Itinerary: Combines natural beauty, cultural sites, and street food in one seamless day.
Private Group: Ensures a personalized experience with flexible timing.
Authentic Experiences: Releasing sky lanterns and exploring Jiufen’s nostalgic streets make it memorable.
Value for Money: Includes transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and all sky lanterns—making it a hassle-free day.
Culinary Highlights: Savor local snacks at two vibrant markets without the burden of planning meals.
Comfort and Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off from multiple locations streamline the day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering the Charm of Jiufen Old Street

Our journey begins with a scenic drive up into the mountains, where views of lush greenery and distant ocean come into focus. The highlight here is Jiufen Old Street, a place that looks straight out of a storybook. Narrow alleys wind past traditional tea houses, souvenir shops, and street vendors offering everything from freshly made peanut ice cream to traditional herbal drinks.

The atmosphere is nostalgic, with red lanterns hanging overhead and the scent of tea and roasted goodies filling the air. Touring Jiufen is like stepping back in time, with many visitors noting how the town’s vibe is both peaceful and lively. Several reviews mention that the old streets are perfect for wandering without a strict schedule, allowing you to soak in the scenery and snap plenty of photos.

You might also want to visit the nearby Gold Museum, especially if you’re interested in learning about Taiwan’s gold mining history, or enjoy a cup of tea at the famous A-Mei Teahouse, which offers panoramic mountain and ocean views. Expect around two hours here, enough to appreciate the town’s charm without feeling rushed.

The Spectacle of Shifen Waterfall & Sky Lanterns

Next, we head to Shifen Waterfall, often called the “Niagara of Taiwan,” thanks to its impressive, wide cascade tumbling into a lush forest setting. The walk to the waterfall is quite rewarding, with well-maintained trails and the chance to feel the cool spray of water on a warm day. Reviewers mention the mist as a refreshing break amidst the hike, and many appreciate the opportunity to capture lively photos of the rushing water.

Afterward, we move to Shifen Old Street, famous for its sky lantern tradition. Here, you can write your wishes on a colorful lantern and release it into the sky, creating a gorgeous visual spectacle. A reviewer shared that they loved the “joy of releasing a sky lantern and making a wish,” and many mention how special this tradition feels. The tour provides one sky lantern per guest, with options to upgrade to more colorful or premium lanterns for an extra fee.

It’s a crowd favorite — the act of releasing lanterns is both fun and meaningful, offering a charming glimpse into Taiwanese culture. The entire experience at Shifen, including the waterfall and old street, takes about 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each moment.

Savoring the Flavors at Keelung Night Market

The trip culminates at Keelung Miaokou Night Market, one of Taiwan’s most famous night markets, renowned for its seafood and street food. Here, you’ll find a bustling scene with vendors offering local specialties such as oyster omelets, tempura, bubble tea, and fresh seafood dishes.

Guests frequently comment on the vibrant atmosphere and the chance to try authentic Taiwanese snacks in a lively setting. One reviewer mentioned that “the seafood was incredibly fresh,” and another appreciated that the market offered a variety of options suitable for different tastes.

The market visit is designed to last about an hour, giving enough time for you to explore, sample, and perhaps pick up some souvenirs. Since meals aren’t included, this part of the tour allows for flexible eating choices—you can opt for the signature dishes or just enjoy browsing the colorful stalls.

Practical Details & What to Expect

This private tour runs around 12 hours, with hotel pickup from Taipei City, Taipei Songshan Airport, and Keelung Port E. No.3-4. The journey includes comfortable private transport, making the long day more manageable and eliminating the stress of navigating public transit or crowded buses.

The tour is flexible; while the itinerary provides a structured flow, guides may adjust timing based on weather or traffic conditions. The experience is suitable rain or shine—though you’ll want to dress for weather, bringing essentials like comfortable shoes, a hat, umbrella, and sunscreen.

Each guest gets one standard sky lantern included, with optional upgrades available. The tour operates with a bilingual guide (Chinese and English), ensuring clear explanations and assistance throughout.

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What Reviewers Say

Many previous travelers praise the scenic views at Jiufen and the fun of releasing sky lanterns, often calling this a highlight of their Taiwan trip. One remarked that the lantern release “felt like a truly special moment,” while another loved the contrast of the tranquil mountain town with the bustling night market.

Several reviewers appreciate the personalized attention of the private group format, as it allows for more relaxed pacing and tailored suggestions from the guide. The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off is also frequently mentioned as a significant plus.

Some mention that the full day can feel a bit packed, but overall, the experience is described as “well worth it” for the chance to tick off multiple must-see sights in one go. The balance of natural beauty, cultural activity, and culinary adventure keeps most guests engaged throughout.

Final Thoughts

This private tour from Taipei to Jiufen, Shifen, and Keelung hits the sweet spot for travelers eager to experience Taiwan’s highlights without the stress of planning every detail. It offers a great mix of scenic views, cultural rituals, and tasty street food, all delivered in a comfortable, private setting.

If you’re someone who wants to see that iconic mountain town, feel the thrill of releasing a sky lantern, and savor local delicacies without rushing, this tour provides excellent value. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate personalized experiences and want to make the most of their limited time in Taiwan.

While it’s a full day, the variety of sights and activities ensures you’ll leave with memories of Taiwan’s unique charm, vibrant culture, and natural beauty. Just be ready for an energetic adventure that leaves you inspired and full of stories.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes private transportation, a bilingual guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, and one standard sky lantern per guest.

Can I upgrade my sky lantern?
Yes, there are options for additional lanterns or color upgrades available for an extra fee.

How long does each stop last?
Expect approximately 2 hours at Jiufen, 1.5 hours at Shifen Waterfall and Old Street, and around 1 hour at Keelung Night Market.

Is this tour suitable for young children or elderly guests?
Yes, since the tour is private and flexible, it can be customized to suit different pace and mobility levels.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, hat, umbrella, sunscreen, and personal medication are recommended to stay comfortable throughout the day.

Is food included?
No, meals are not included to give guests flexibility; you’ll have plenty of opportunities to try local snacks at Keelung Night Market.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions. You should dress appropriately for rain or shine, and the itinerary may be adjusted if needed.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Who would enjoy this tour most?
Travelers eager for a comprehensive, authentic day exploring Taiwan’s scenic spots, cultural traditions, and vibrant street food scenes will find this tour ideal. It’s perfect for those who value personalized service and want to maximize their sightseeing in a short time.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby