Jiufen, Shifen, and Pingxi One-Day Tour Guide: Transportation, Food, and Itinerary Explained

If you're planning a one-day trip from Taipei, Jiufen, Shifen, and Pingxi make up one of the most classic combinations. Walk the mountain town streets enjoying taro balls, admire the grandeur of Shifen Waterfall, and make a wish by releasing sky lanterns in Pingxi. This route blends natural scenery, cultural heritage, and nostalgic old streets, making it a favorite for travelers from Singapore, Malaysia, and around the world.

But if you're unfamiliar with the route or don’t want to spend too much time figuring out transportation and transfers, this article will help you master all the essentials for a Jiufen day tour. We’ll cover transportation, food, sightseeing, and also recommend a private charter service departing from Taipei to make your trip more efficient and worry-free.

1. How to Get to Jiufen, Shifen, and Pingxi

Public Transportation (Cheap but Time-Consuming)

This is the most budget-friendly option but also the most time-consuming. Taking Bus 1062 from Zhongxiao Fuxing Station to Jiufen takes about 90 minutes. On weekends, the bus is often crowded. Traveling from Jiufen to Shifen and Pingxi requires returning to Ruifang Station and transferring to the Pingxi Line train. With infrequent train schedules and long transfer times, it’s easy to fall behind your planned itinerary.

Self-Driving (Flexible but Not Ideal for Everyone)

Driving gives you flexibility to change your schedule, but Jiufen’s mountain roads are narrow and steep. Parking is limited, especially on weekends. If you're unfamiliar with Taiwan’s road conditions, driving may cause stress and navigation issues.

Private Car Tour (Most Convenient)

Booking a private car is the most time-efficient and comfortable option. You’ll be picked up directly from your hotel in Taipei and won’t need to transfer. We recommend the Jiufen, Shifen, and Pingxi private tour offered by Escape Travel. English and Mandarin-speaking drivers are available, making it ideal for families, international travelers, or those who prefer a relaxing experience.

2. Jiufen Old Street Food and Souvenirs

Jiufen is one of Taiwan’s most iconic mountain towns, famous for its nostalgic charm. Walking through its narrow staircases and alleys, you’ll find teahouses, dessert shops, and souvenir stalls lining the way. It’s a must-visit stop for anyone on a Taiwan free and easy trip.

Recommended local food:

• Ah Gan Yi Taro Balls: enjoy chewy taro balls with panoramic mountain and sea views

• Lai Ah Po Taro Balls: a popular stall known for its traditional flavor

• Fish Ball Uncle: handmade fish ball soup with rich broth

• Peanut ice cream roll: peanut brittle shavings with ice cream wrapped in a thin pancake

• Grass rice cake: savory sticky rice dumpling with soft glutinous skin

Popular souvenirs include pineapple cakes, taro pastries, and handmade cookies. Visiting Jiufen after 3 PM is ideal to catch the golden hour and watch the sunset over the mountain town.

3. Must-Visit Attractions Near Jiufen

Jiufen isn’t just about the old street. There are several nearby attractions worth adding to your itinerary, especially if you're traveling by private car:

• Golden Waterfall: a scenic waterfall tinted gold from natural minerals

• Thirteen Levels (Shuinandong Smelter): a dramatic tiered industrial ruin from Taiwan’s mining past

• Yin Yang Sea: a natural phenomenon where the ocean appears divided into golden brown and deep blue hues

• A-Mei Teahouse: Jiufen’s most iconic teahouse with classic Japanese-style wooden architecture

These sights are located close to each other, but not easily accessible by public transport. A private car is the most efficient way to visit them all in one trip.

4. Shifen Waterfall and Pingxi Sky Lanterns

Shifen Waterfall

Nicknamed the "Taiwanese Niagara Falls," it is the widest curtain waterfall in Taiwan. The walking trail is flat and accessible for all ages. From the entrance, it takes around 10 minutes to reach the viewing platform, making it perfect for scenic photos and a leisurely stroll.

Pingxi Sky Lanterns

Releasing sky lanterns by the railway tracks in Pingxi is one of the most memorable cultural experiences in Taiwan. Write your wishes, light the lantern, and watch it float into the sky.

• No reservation needed; buy lanterns from local shops on-site

• Ideal time: between 5 PM and 8 PM when the sky darkens for better visibility

• Choose from multi-color lanterns and get assistance taking photos

Pingxi Old Street

A charming stretch built alongside the railway, with preserved Japanese-era train station architecture. Grab some snacks like fried chicken rolls or Taiwanese sausage while exploring vintage shops and small stalls.

5. Optional Stop: Keelung Miaokou Night Market

If you have time and energy after your day trip, consider stopping by Keelung Miaokou Night Market to complete your Taiwan night market experience. Located in Ren’ai District, it’s one of the most famous in northern Taiwan.

Must-try food includes:

• Ding bian cuo (rice-flour soup)

• Crab thick soup

• Taiwanese tempura

• Nutrition sandwich (deep-fried sandwich with pickles and egg)

Note: Visiting the night market may require additional time, so check with your driver in advance regarding overtime charges.

6. Travel Tips for Singaporean and Malaysian Travelers

• Jiufen and Pingxi are in the mountains, so temperatures are typically 3 to 5°C cooler than in Taipei. Bring a light jacket or windbreaker.

• Many local shops still prefer cash. It’s recommended to carry enough New Taiwan Dollars.

• Buy a SIM card or eSIM at the airport for navigation and travel information on the go.

7. Why Choose Escape Travel’s Private Car Tour?

Escape Travel is a registered travel agency in Taiwan offering reliable and comfortable private car tours. Their Jiufen, Shifen, and Pingxi itinerary is one of the most popular among overseas travelers.

Key benefits:

• Direct pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Taipei

• English or Mandarin-speaking drivers available

• Flexible route and adjustable timing

• Licensed operator with official receipts

• Over 300 satisfied customer reviews

If you don’t want the stress of navigating transportation, and prefer a safe and comfortable journey, private car touring is your best option.

8. How to Book

Booking is simple and fast, perfect for travelers from Singapore, Malaysia, or anywhere overseas:

• Contact us via LINE, WhatsApp, or WeChat

• Share your travel date, number of people, and accommodation

• Our team will suggest the best itinerary and provide an instant quote

• Confirm and pay to secure your booking

We respond quickly across all platforms and will help you plan the smoothest route and best travel experience.

9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What time does Jiufen Old Street close?
Most shops stay open until 8–9 PM.

How long is the drive from Taipei to Jiufen?
Around 90 minutes by public bus or 60 minutes by private car.

Do I need to reserve in advance to release a sky lantern?
No reservation required. Just visit any lantern shop in Pingxi.

How many people can join a private car tour?
1 to 6 people is ideal. Larger groups can request bigger vehicles.

How do I pay?
We support local bank transfer and credit card payment. Our staff will provide the link upon confirmation.

10. Final Thoughts

A Jiufen day trip combined with Shifen Waterfall and Pingxi lanterns is one of the most iconic Taiwan itineraries for free independent travelers. If you want to enjoy the scenery, history, and culture without worrying about traffic or schedules, a private car tour is the most relaxed and convenient option.

 

Escape Travel’s Taiwan private car services help you complete this route from Taipei in one day, creating hassle-free memories you’ll treasure from your time in Taiwan.