Jiufen

Roughly an hour outside of Taipei, is the sleepy hollow of Jiufen. The name dates back to the legend that only nine families inhabited this mining town. Because Jiufen was so far removed from trade routes, any goods ordered to the town were always purchased in groups of nine - one set for each family living there. So the name 'Jiufen' translated, literally means 'nine pieces'. Once gold was discovered in the 1890s, this family was joined by hoards of others, populating Jiufen as the new gold mining heart of Taiwan. 

Near to the Pacific Ocean coastline, the old town of Jiufen is hushed into misty slopes. The town's dated commercial square attracts visitors who stream in on weekends, wanting a peek into the old town that became the setting for the famous Japanese animation film 'Spirited Away'. Here tourists meander along a lively Old Street, between lantern-lit souvenir shops, food vendors, and cafés. An afternoon through Jiufen is easy enough  to do on foot. Jishan Street (基山街) which runs along the ridge line and Shuchi (Shuqi) Street (豎崎路) are the main attractions in this historical district.

The teahouses are also the main attractions of this historical village, offering beautiful views of Keelung. Jiufen Teahouse has been the wistful lover of many renowned Taiwanese artists and writers. The area offers a number of breathtaking views too to those up for a hike alongside Mt. Jilong. The Gold Ecological Park also offers tourist an educational tour on the town's gold-boom history.

JIUFEN GOLD PANNING TOUR

Want to have history, nature, outdoor activities, while sipping a cup of excellent Taiwanese mountain green oolong tea all in one?

Come explore the northern wonders of Taipei,  you will be surrounded by verdant mountains and stunning scenery of the East China Sea. Jiufen, a gold mining town in the days of yore, is where everything begins. Golden shrine atop the mountains, Japanese-style buildings, to name a few, are still gracing the area telling their own stories.

At the foot of the mountains, brace yourself for the magnificent Gold Falls, a gold-laced waterfall you won't find anywhere else in Asia! And did I mention the magnificent ocean view?

Details and Bookings:

https://www.kkday.com/en/product/1609?cid-2007

PINGXI (ONE-DAY TOUR)

Historical Shihfen Old Street -When Taiwanese saw sky lanterns they automatically thought of Pingshi. But, to be more exact, Shihfen is where the origin of sky lanterns is from. Additional, Shifen District is the earliest developed and largest coal industry back in the Taiwanese history. The tour includes Jingtong Old Street, Shihfen Old Street, and Pingxi Old Street.

Details and Booking: 

https://www.kkday.com/en/product/30