It was Rainy in Jiufen Again
[ May, 2015 ] This time in Taiwan, we went to Jiufen again. When we went there last time, it was already dark and the light of the lanterns was lovely, but this time it…
Jiufen
Jiufen, Taiwan’s enchanting mountain village of tea houses and lantern-lit streets
Jiufen is one of Taiwan’s most iconic destinations and one of the country’s most atmospheric mountain villages. Perched on the hills overlooking the Pacific Ocean, about an hour from Taipei, Jiufen is famous for its narrow alleyways, traditional tea houses, glowing red lanterns and breathtaking coastal views. Once a thriving gold-mining settlement, it has successfully preserved its historic charm while becoming one of Taiwan’s most popular tourist destinations.
Many visitors associate Jiufen with the magical scenery of Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away. Although the filmmakers have stated that the village was not the direct inspiration for the movie, its lantern-filled streets and nostalgic atmosphere continue to evoke the same enchanting feeling for travellers from around the world.
What to see in Jiufen
The centre of the village is Jiufen Old Street, a lively maze of narrow lanes lined with traditional shops, cafés and food stalls. Here visitors can sample famous Taiwanese street food, local sweets, taro balls and freshly prepared snacks while enjoying the bustling atmosphere.
One of Jiufen’s greatest pleasures is visiting one of its historic tea houses, many of which overlook the mountains and the Pacific coastline. Relaxing with traditional Taiwanese tea while admiring the scenery is one of the highlights of any visit.
Nearby, the Jinguashi Gold Museum tells the story of the region’s mining heritage through restored buildings, underground tunnels and historical exhibitions. Scenic hiking trails around Jiufen also provide spectacular viewpoints overlooking the rugged coastline and surrounding mountains.
When to visit Jiufen
Jiufen is worth visiting throughout the year. Spring and autumn usually offer the clearest weather and the best views, while evenings are particularly magical as hundreds of red lanterns illuminate the historic streets.
With its unique atmosphere, rich history, traditional tea culture and unforgettable scenery, Jiufen remains one of Taiwan’s most memorable destinations.
