Taipei: Jiufen, Shifen Waterfall and Pingxi Sky Lantern Tour

Discover the natural wonders and cultural heritage of Taipei on an immersive half-day tour. Explore the enchanting Yin Yang Sea, Golden Waterfall, and the majestic Shifen Waterfall. Wander the historic streets of Jiufen, which inspired the iconic anime "Spirited Away." Experience the lively Shifen Old Street, where you can release traditional sky lanterns symbolizing your wishes. This well-rounded tour offers a seamless blend of scenic landscapes, cultural insights, and unforgettable experiences. Continue reading to uncover all the highlights of this captivating Taipei adventure.

Key Points

• This private half-day tour takes visitors to explore the natural wonders and cultural heritage of Jiufen, Shifen Waterfall, and Pingxi Sky Lanterns.
• Highlights include the Yin Yang Sea, Golden Waterfall, Shifen Waterfall, the historic town of Jiufen, and the scenic Shifen Old Street.
• Visitors can engage in local traditions, such as releasing sky lanterns, and discover the region’s unique architecture and culinary delights.
• The tour provides a well-rounded experience by combining stunning natural landscapes, cultural insights, and independent exploration opportunities.
• The tour is offered in English and Chinese, with hotel pick-up and drop-off within Taipei City, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Tour Overview

The private half-day tour from Taipei is priced at $89.84 per person and lasts approximately 6 hours.

It includes hotel pick-up and drop-off within Taipei City. Travelers can cancel the tour free of charge up to 24 hours in advance. The tour is offered in both English and Chinese.

Highlights include photo stops and guided tours at Yin Yang Sea, Golden Waterfall, Shifen Waterfall, and Shifen Old Street. Visitors also get a 2-hour break to explore the historic town of Jiufen.

The tour includes activities like releasing a traditional sky lantern at Shifen Station and discovering local tea houses, shops, and delicacies.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour’s itinerary highlights begin with a photo stop and guided tour at the picturesque Yin Yang Sea, lasting approximately 15 minutes.

Next up is the Golden Waterfall, where you will enjoy another 15-minute photo stop and guided tour.

The main attraction is the majestic Shifen Waterfall, which visitors can admire for 45 minutes.

The tour then moves to the historic town of Jiufen, where travelers can spend 2 hours exploring the charming streets, local teahouses, and shops that inspired Hayao Miyazaki’s "Spirited Away".

The final stop is Shifen Old Street, where participants can marvel at the scenery for 45 minutes.

The order of the itinerary may vary based on the departure time.

Yin Yang Sea

Kicking off the tour, visitors start with a photo stop and guided exploration of the captivating Yin Yang Sea.

This natural phenomenon features swirling patterns of blue and green waters, created by the meeting of two currents. Travelers can snap stunning shots of the mesmerizing yin-yang design while learning about its unique geological formation.

The guide provides insights into the area’s cultural significance, as the dynamic interplay of the two colors represents the ancient Chinese philosophy of balance and harmony.

This 15-minute stop sets the stage for the upcoming highlights, whetting visitors’ appetites for the natural wonders that await.

Golden Waterfall

Next, the tour proceeds to the Golden Waterfall, where visitors can enjoy a 15-minute photo stop and guided exploration.

The waterfall gets its name from the yellow-hued rocks that surround it, creating a stunning natural display. Visitors can admire the cascading waters and learn about the geological features and history of the site from the knowledgeable guide.

The Golden Waterfall offers a peaceful respite from the bustling city and provides an opportunity to capture beautiful photographs.

After the visit, the tour continues to the next destination, allowing travelers to explore more of Taiwan’s natural wonders.

Shifen Waterfall

From the Golden Waterfall, the tour proceeds to the impressive Shifen Waterfall, where visitors can enjoy a 45-minute photo stop and guided exploration.

Tumbling down a 40-meter-tall cliff, the waterfall is one of Taiwan’s most scenic natural wonders. Visitors can marvel at the cascading waters and capture stunning photographs from various vantage points. The guide will provide historical context and cultural insights about the waterfall’s significance.

After the photo stop, the tour continues to the charming Shifen Old Street, where travelers can explore the quaint shops and release traditional sky lanterns, a cherished local tradition.

Jiufen Exploration

After exploring the captivating Shifen Waterfall, the tour moves on to the charming town of Jiufen.

Travelers are treated to a 2-hour break for independent exploration of this historic district. Jiufen’s winding streets are lined with traditional teahouses, quaint shops, and delightful local delicacies.

The town’s unique architecture and atmosphere were said to have inspired Hayao Miyazaki’s beloved anime film "Spirited Away." Visitors can enjoy the town’s cultural heritage, snap photos of the picturesque views, and discover hidden gems at their own pace.

This stop offers a chance to truly experience the essence of old-world Taiwan and come away with lasting memories.

Shifen Old Street

After exploring the serene Shifen Waterfall, the tour group proceeds to the picturesque Shifen Old Street.

This historic district is known for its quaint shops, lively atmosphere, and the opportunity to release a traditional sky lantern.

Visitors can:

• Stroll along the charming streets lined with local vendors selling handicrafts, snacks, and souvenirs
• Witness the unique experience of releasing a sky lantern, a symbolic gesture of making a wish
• Admire the intricate architecture and traditional storefronts that evoke a bygone era
• Savor local delicacies like the famous Shifen taro balls or Taiwanese sausages
• Capture stunning photographs of the scenic railway track running through the center of the old town.

Experiences Offered

Immersing visitors in a unique cultural experience, the tour offers the opportunity to release a traditional sky lantern at Shifen Station.

Guests can explore the historic streets of Jiufen, which inspired Hayao Miyazaki’s beloved animated film "Spirited Away". Along the way, they’ll discover local teahouses, shops, and delicacies, all while enjoying scenic views and gaining cultural insights.

The tour provides a well-rounded experience, allowing participants to engage with the rich heritage and natural beauty of the region through a variety of activities and guided explorations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks for the Tour?

The tour does not include food and drinks, so participants can bring their own. However, they’ll need to carry any personal items themselves during the tour.

What Should I Do if I Need to Cancel the Tour?

If you need to cancel the tour, you can do so up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour offers free cancellation, so you don’t have to worry about losing your money.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is allowed and encouraged throughout the tour. Guests can freely capture scenic landscapes, cultural experiences, and memorable moments during the various stops along the itinerary.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

The tour generally follows a set itinerary, but travelers can discuss customizing the schedule with the tour operator to accommodate their preferences, subject to feasibility and availability. Flexibility is typically limited due to the logistics of the tour.

Is There a Discount Available for Group Bookings?

Yes, there are group discounts available for this tour. Bookings of 2 or more people can receive a 10% discount off the per-person rate. The more people in the group, the higher the potential savings.

Sum Up

This captivating half-day tour from Taipei offers a chance to discover the enchanting towns and natural wonders surrounding the city. Explore the historic charm of Jiufen, marvel at the thundering Shifen Waterfall, and have the unique opportunity to release a traditional sky lantern. With expert guides and a personalized experience, this tour immerses visitors in the beauty and traditions that have inspired countless travelers to this picturesque region.