Jiufen Old Street

Why Japanese travelers love Jiufen

Known as the world of "Spirited Away", this former gold-mining town tops every Taiwan ranking in Japan. The lantern-lit stone steps look most magical after dusk.

5 must-see highlights

1. Shuqi Road: narrow stone-step alley lined with teahouses. The classic guidebook cover shot.
2. A-Mei Tea House: the symbol of Jiufen. Rooftop terrace overlooks Keelung Bay; tea + 4 snacks set ~NT$300, leftover leaves to take home, Japanese-speaking staff common. On weekends, shoot its full facade from Skyline Teahouse across the street.
3. Jishan Street: food walk (old ore-cart track). Caozaiguo, A-Gan-Yi / Lai-A-Po taro balls, fish-ball soup, peanut ice-cream roll (say "no cilantro" if needed).
4. Jiufen Teahouse / Artist Teahouse: century-old houses, higher-grade tea for serious drinkers.
5. Gold Museum / Golden Waterfall / Jinguashi: ~10 min by bus. Touch a 220kg gold bar, Benshan mine tunnel, Crown Prince Lodge built for Emperor Showa.

Access & time needed

• From Taipei: bus 965 (Banqiao/Ximen/Beimen) or 1062 (Zhongxiao Fuxing/Songshan), 1–1.5 hrs.
• Or TRA to Ruifang then bus/taxi ~15 min. "Jiufen + Shifen" day tours with Japanese guides are popular.
• Stay: half to one day. Classic combo: Shifen in the morning, Jiufen lights in the evening.

Tips

• Rains ~200 days a year and steps are slippery. Wear good shoes; a raincoat beats an umbrella.
• Use the restroom before arriving. Start early on weekends.

Photo spots

Shuqi Road steps at night, A-Mei Tea House lanterns, full view from Skyline Teahouse terrace.