Jiufen, Taiwan: A Timeless Mountain Village
Nestled in the lush hills of northeastern Taiwan, Jiufen (九份) is a charming old town that transports visitors back in time. Once a prosperous gold mining town during the Japanese era, Jiufen is now a popular tourist destination known for its nostalgic atmosphere, narrow alleyways, tea houses, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
A Step Back in Time
Jiufen’s name, which means “nine portions,” originates from the time when the area was only inhabited by nine families who requested nine portions of supplies from merchants. Its golden age came in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when gold was discovered in the area, leading to a mining boom.
The old streets of Jiufen are filled with traditional architecture, red lanterns, and preserved Japanese-era buildings, giving it a timeless feel. Many visitors are reminded of scenes from Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away, although there is no official connection.
Jiufen Old Street
The main attraction is Jiufen Old Street (九份老街)—a bustling, narrow alley lined with local snacks, souvenir shops, and teahouses. You can try local delicacies such as:
Taro balls (芋圓) – chewy, sweet, and often served in a hot or cold dessert soup.
Peanut ice cream roll (花生冰淇淋卷) – crushed peanut brittle, cilantro, and ice cream wrapped in a spring roll.
Fish ball soup (魚丸湯) and other savory street foods.
Traditional Tea Houses
Don’t miss the chance to sip traditional Chinese tea while enjoying a mountain and sea view. A-Mei Tea House (阿妹茶樓) is one of the most famous, known for its classic architecture and stunning scenery. Tea drinking in Jiufen is not just a refreshment—it’s an experience of culture and relaxation.
Getting There
Jiufen is about 1 to 1.5 hours from Taipei. Common ways to reach it:
By train and bus: Take the train from Taipei to Ruifang Station, then transfer to a local bus (e.g., bus 788 or 1062).
By direct bus: Kuo-Kuang or other tourist buses run from Taipei Main Station or Songshan MRT Station.
Tips
Try visiting on a weekday to avoid weekend crowds.
Bring an umbrella or raincoat—Jiufen can be misty or rainy due to its mountain climate.
Wear comfortable shoes; the town has many stairs and steep paths.
#staycation #myitinerary #travel #travel