Discovering Jiufen: Taiwan’s Hidden Gem

Discovering Jiufen: Taiwan’s Hidden Gem. Nestled among the majestic mountains and overlooking the tranquil sea, Jiufen in New Taipei City, Taiwan is a treasure trove waiting to be explored.

Getting to Jiufen

My journey to Jiufen unfolded like the turning of pages in a storybook, revealing its enchanting streets, rich history and the irresistible aroma of its culinary wonders. Join me as I share the personal tapestry of my experience, urging you to discover why Jiufen is a destination that beckons the curious traveler

Taipei Main Station

Embracing the ease of travel, I hopped on a train at Taipei Main Station destined for Ruifang. The rhythmic journey unfolded with scenic views, offering a tranquil escape from the urban buzz.

Ruifang Station

Arriving at Ruifang Station, a seamless transition awaited as I embarked on the next leg of my adventure to Jiufen

The options were diverse: buses lined up, ready to wind through picturesque routes and taxis awaited for a more direct journey. Opting for convenience, I chose a bus to carry me through the scenic landscapes en route to Jiufen

The ride, surrounded by rolling hills and coastal vistas, added an extra layer of delight to the journey. Soon, Jiufen’s enchanting Old Town emerged, perched against the hills revealing its narrow streets and historic charm

Getting Lost in Jiufen’s Mountains and Seas

Ever felt like stepping into a painting? That’s exactly what Jiufen felt like for me. Surrounded by mountains and facing the sea, this place is a visual marvel.

The narrow streets and steep steps, it’s like the whole town is built on a mountainous canvas

Walking through Jiufen is like wandering through nature’s masterpiece.

Jiufen Old Street

Venturing into Jiufen Old Street was like stepping onto a movie set where the past seamlessly coexists with the present.

Once a thriving hub due to gold mines, the street now retains Japanese-style buildings, lantern-lit alleys and an ambiance straight out of a cinematic masterpiece.

As I strolled through the narrow streets and steep stone steps, each twist and turn painted a vivid picture of Jiufen’s unique charm

The Enchanting Atmosphere

Despite the bustle of tourists, Jiufen’s streets exuded a genuine artistic allure. The wooden buildings the mist-kissed Pacific Ocean and the coastline along Keelung created a mesmerizing atmosphere even on a slightly foggy day. This was more than a visit, it was an immersion into the magic of Jiufen

Culinary Delights and Souvenir Shops

Jiufen Old Street’s culinary scene unfolded like a culinary treasure hunt. From traditional snacks to savory delights, each bite carried the essence of Jiufen’s rich food culture.

There are more than a hundred small stores lined up on both sides of the small street including traditional snacks, restaurants and folk craft shops

You can find almost everything there is to eat, drink and play

Grandmother Lai’s taro balls in Jiufen, it is indispensable to taste the local delicacies such as taro balls. In addition to the original sweet potato and taro flavors, special matcha, sesame and yam flavors are now added

The street’s souvenir shops and boutiques offered a chance to take home a piece of Jiufen’s charm

Staying Overnight in Jiufen

Staying overnight in Jiufen is a magical experience, allowing you to witness the enchanting transformation of Jiufen Old Street as lanterns light up the narrow alleys.

Catch breathtaking sunrise engage with locals and immerse yourself fully in the charm of this historic mountain town. It’s a unique opportunity to explore Jiufen beyond the hustle of the day, creating memories that linger long after the lanterns dim

Conclusion

Discovering Jiufen: Taiwan’s Hidden Gem

As the day turned into an illuminated evening, Jiufen revealed itself as a destination where time flows gently and every corner holds a story. My journey through Jiufen was more than an exploration, it was an intimate dance with history, culture and flavors that lingered long after I left. Join me on this adventure and discover why Jiufen is an invitation to uncover the beauty woven into its timeless tapestry

Best time to Visit Jiufen

The best time to visit Jiufen largely depends on your preferences and the type of experience you’re seeking. However, here are some considerations for different seasons

Spring (March to May)

  • Spring offers mild temperatures and blooming flowers, creating a pleasant and picturesque atmosphere
  • The weather is comfortable, making it suitable for exploring Jiufen’s narrow streets and enjoying outdoor activities

Summer (June to August)

  • Summer brings warmer temperatures and occasional rain
  • The lush greenery adds vibrancy to the surroundings
  • Keep in mind that summer is a popular tourist season, so Jiufen may be more crowded

Autumn (September to November)

  • Autumn is considered one of the best times to visit Jiufen
  • The weather is cool and comfortable and the fall foliage adds a beautiful touch to the landscape
  • It’s an ideal time for both outdoor exploration and enjoying the local culture

Winter (December to February)

  • Winter brings cooler temperatures especially in the evenings
  • While Jiufen doesn’t experience harsh winters, you may want to bring a jacket for the cooler nights
  • The holiday season and Chinese New Year can attract more visitors

Considerations

Avoid Weekends and Holidays

Jiufen can get crowded especially on weekends and during holidays. If possible, plan your visit on weekdays to enjoy a more relaxed experience

Evening Visit

Jiufen’s street charm is accentuated in the evening when lanterns illuminate the narrow streets. Consider staying into the early evening to experience the magical atmosphere

Ultimately, the best time to visit Jiufen depends on your personal preferences regarding weather, crowd levels and the overall experience you desire. Each season brings its own unique charm to this enchanting mountain town

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