Is Jiufen always crowded?

Come early, Jiufen gets crowded! We were there on a weekend day at 9.00, and after around 12:00 PM, the streets (especially Old Street) became super packed.

Is Jiufen too touristy?

That said, Jiufen is an immensely popular tourist attraction, and the narrow streets are often very, very crowded — so if you are planning to visit Jiufen and hoping for a quiet day out, you might have to manage your expectations.

What time is best for Jiufen?

The shops at Jiufen open at 10 and it starts to get busy after noon. If you don't like crowds, it might be better to go to Jiufen first in the morning. Even at its peak, between 1 and 3 pm when the tour buses arrive to Shifen, the crowds are still manageable.

Is it better to visit Jiufen or Shifen first?

If you prefer to avoid large crowds, visit Jifuen first thing in the morning as it starts getting busy around 12 PM onwards. If you prefer to experience the Spirited Away vibe, visit Shifen first and end your day at Jiufen. This will give you the opportuntiy to see those famous red lanterns switch on as the sun sets.

How long do you need in Jiufen?

You only need to set aside half a day, about 6 to 8 hours to enjoy and explore Jiufen. Staying overnight is not required, though it could be a good option if you're looking to enjoy Jiufen without all the crowds.

Taiwan's "Spirited Away" Town: Is it actually worth visiting?🏮✨Jiufen Old Street

Is Jiufen colder than Taipei?

Weather. Most of the old street is undercover, but avoid visiting during bad weather. Jiufen can be a few degrees colder than Taipei.

Should I stay one night in Jiufen?

For those seeking to experience the town's quieter, more mystical side, staying overnight is highly recommended. The evenings offer a more peaceful atmosphere, allowing visitors to soak in Jiufen's charm without the bustling daytime crowds.

Does Jiufen have a night market?

Jiufen Old Street is a series of alleyways and a night market in Jiufen, Taiwan. National Geographic has called Old Street "one of the country's most iconic night markets".

Why is Jiufen so popular?

Jiufen used to be an old gold mining town, but these days it's known more for its narrow alleyways, tea houses, stunning mountain views, and red lanterns that light up the streets at night.

How long does it take to visit Shifen?

Shifen old street is pretty small, so you will be able to see it all in 15-20 minutes. However, if you plan on setting off a sky lantern, expect to stay for closer to 1 hour. If you choose to walk to the nearby Shifen waterfall, this will take around an hour for a round trip, including sightseeing.

Does Jiufen have hot springs?

Our most recommended Jiufen Hot springs. Take a day trip from Taipei to explore the best of the northeast coast of Taiwan.

What to do at Jiufen at night?

What to buy on Jiufen Old Street?

Shopping on the Old Street

Some of the most popular items sold on Jiufen Old Street include tea, various cakes and desserts, Spirited Away and Totoro items, traditional whistles, cat-related items, postcards, old-fashioned candies, pottery, and all types of typical Taiwan-themed souvenirs.

What does Jiufen mean in Chinese?

During its peak days, Jiufen has more than 900 households living in the town. The literal meaning of the place name Jiufen is “nine portions” and we always joke that you'll have to prepare for nearly a thousand portions of things now to give away in this mountain town.

Is Ruifang worth visiting?

Top Attractions in Ruifang

Features scenic views, free tastings, and a historical gold mining background. There is a wonderful exhibition on coal mining but the subject matter wouldnt attract a lot of tourists.

Is Shifen waterfall natural?

The Shifen Waterfall Park, which is adjacent to the old street, is located on the mainstream of Keelung River. Due to the river's erosion, faulted terrain and strange rocks have formed along with many waterfalls and geological wonders. Shifen Waterfall is the most famous among them.

Which night market is the best in Taipei?

What town is Spirited Away in Taiwan?

Jiufen also became popular in 2001 due to its resemblance to the downtown in the Japanese anime movie Spirited Away by Studio Ghibli.

How do I get to Yangmingshan from Taipei?

Bus. To get to Yangmingshan National Park via bus, you can take the 260 bus from Taipei Main Station for NT$30 or the Red 30 or 208 bus from Jiantan train station for NT$15. These buses will take you to Yangmingshan bus station, which is only a few meters away from the park's visitor center.

What's the coldest month in Taipei?

January is the coldest month in Taiwan with an average temperature of about 63°F for the month. While this might not sound very wintery a jacket is still a good idea, since the humidity in the northern regions like Taipei can make it feel a few degrees colder.

What to do in Jiufen when it's raining?

Learn about Jiufen's history. A good option for a rainy day is to visit the local Gold Museum and learn about the past of Jiufen.

What is the best street food in Jiufen?

Is Jiufen touristy?

Jiufen (also spelled Chiufen) used to be a small gold mining village during the Japanese era. These days, it's a major tourist spot known for its old street, tea houses, narrow alleyways, and cozy mountain vibe.

Is Spirited Away inspired by Jiufen?

According to Taiwan News, Miyazaki confirmed in several interviews that he has never visited Jiufen. “Spirited Away is not inspired by any one place," he said, but is rather a product of his imagination.

Which night market to go after Jiufen?

It's easy to visit Keelung Night Market after a day trip to Jiufen Old Street. From Jiufen Old Street, take bus 788 (heading downhill, bound for Keelung Train Station) for 50 minutes. Get off at Yier Rd. Intersection (Temple Night Market) stop (義二路口), which is only 5 minutes from the night market.