6 Hours Private Charter from Taipei in Shifen and Jiufen

Exploring Northern Taiwan: A 6-Hour Private Tour from Taipei to Shifen and Jiufen

If you’re looking to escape the busy streets of Taipei and experience the natural and cultural charms of northern Taiwan, this private 6-hour tour might be just what you need. For $176.59 per group (up to four people), you’ll visit iconic spots like the Shifen Waterfall, often called “little Niagara,” and wander through the nostalgic streets of Jiufen, famous for its unique vibe and street food. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers a personalized touch that large group excursions often can’t match.

What we love about this experience is its flexibility and focus on authentic sights—your guide will help you enjoy the stunning waterfall, explore quaint old streets, and sample local delicacies at a relaxed pace. Plus, the fact that it’s a private tour means you can tailor it slightly to your interests, whether that’s snapping photos, lighting sky lanterns, or simply soaking in the views.

A possible consideration is the limited duration—at six hours, you’ll cover quite a bit but might find yourself rushing through some stops, especially if you want more time to linger. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate a well-organized, intimate experience without the hassle of navigating public transport. Families, couples, or small groups seeking a balance of natural beauty and cultural charm will find this tour particularly rewarding.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with a knowledgeable guide
• Visit iconic spots like Shifen Waterfall, Shifen Old Street, and Jiufen Old Street
• Enjoy authentic street food and the chance to light sky lanterns
• Flexible timing allows for a relaxed yet efficient visit
• Ideal for small groups seeking a curated Taiwan day trip
• Includes all transportation fees, so no hidden costs

A Closer Look at the Tour

Starting at Shifen Waterfall: Taiwan’s “Little Niagara”

The journey begins at the Shifen Waterfall, Taiwan’s widest waterfall at 40 meters. The sight of water cascading over rocks, framed by lush greenery, is genuinely impressive—an ideal spot for photos or just marveling at nature’s power. The admission ticket is included, which means no surprises there. As one reviewer noted, even with overcast skies and rain, the experience was enjoyable: “Poor weather but a great experience and guide.” The natural beauty here is undeniable, and the sound of rushing water provides a calming backdrop to your morning.

Exploring Shifen Old Street and Sky Lanterns

A short 10-minute ride from the waterfall takes you into Shifen Old Street, a lively railway town where trains pass right through the main street—an uncommon sight that adds to the charm. Here, you can sample local snacks, browse souvenirs, or, perhaps most famously, light your sky lantern. This activity is often highlighted as a highlight, offering a tangible connection to local tradition and a memorable photo opportunity. One visitor described it as “an unforgettable experience,” emphasizing how special it is to see your lantern floating into the sky amidst cheers.

The street’s lively atmosphere, combined with the sound of passing trains, makes it a unique place to soak in local life. The guide is usually helpful in giving tips on when to best light your lantern and how to handle the crowds.

Discovering Jiufen’s Old Streets and Snack Scene

After a hearty hour exploring Shifen, your guide will take you to Jiufen Old Street—a place that feels like stepping back in time. Its narrow alleyways are packed with tiny shops selling everything from traditional crafts to famous street foods. You’ll want to try the Taro Balls, a sweet, chewy dessert that locals and visitors alike recommend.

One review mentions how helpful the guide was in navigating crowded streets: “In Jiufen, which was very crowded, it was great to be taught how to get there smoothly.” The views overlooking Keelung Port from Jiufen are breathtaking, especially when enjoyed from a traditional tea house, where you can sip tea and reflect on the day’s sights. The free admission to this part of the tour makes it easy to enjoy at your own pace, although you’ll want to budget some time for wandering and tasting.

End of the Day and Return to Taipei

At the end of your exploration, your driver will return you comfortably to your hotel or the Raohe Street Night Market, depending on your preference. This flexibility is helpful, especially after a busy day of sightseeing.

The tour is designed to maximize your time efficiently, with all transportation costs included, so you won’t need to worry about navigating public transport or additional charges. The private vehicle means you can focus on enjoying the scenery and chatting with your guide without the hustle of larger groups.

Why This Tour Delivers Value

Compared to larger, more generic tours, this private option offers a more intimate, flexible experience. The fact that it’s a private tour means your group can go at your own pace and ask questions—something many travelers appreciate. The guided commentary adds context and local knowledge, turning a sightseeing trip into a richer experience.

The cost of $176.59 for up to four people breaks down to about $44 each, which is quite reasonable considering the personalized service and all transportation included. Plus, with reviews praising the guide’s knowledge and friendliness, it’s clear that this tour is about more than just ticking boxes; it’s about creating memorable moments.

Traveler reviews consistently mention the stunning views and the helpfulness of guides as highlights. One reviewer summed it up well: “Our guide, Allen, was very polite and knowledgeable,” emphasizing how much the guide’s attitude can enhance your visit. The opportunity to take part in culturally meaningful activities like sky lantern lighting and tasting local foods makes this tour stand out.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits those who appreciate a well-organized, small-group adventure with a focus on authentic sights and local traditions. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see Taiwan’s natural beauty and historical towns without the stress of planning transport or navigating crowds. It’s also perfect for families or couples looking for a memorable day out, especially if they enjoy tasting local foods and snapping photos of scenic views.

People with moderate physical fitness will find this tour manageable, as it involves some walking and standing but generally isn’t overly strenuous. If you love stunning waterfalls, nostalgic streets, and tasty treats, this tour hits all those marks.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 6 hours, covering key sights around Shifen and Jiufen.

What is included in the price?
All transportation, fuel, parking, and driver fees are included. Admission tickets for Shifen Waterfall and the Old Street are also covered. Food and lantern fees are extra.

Can I ask for a specific guide?
While the guide’s name isn’t always specified in advance, the reviews praise guides like Allen and Alen for their friendliness and knowledge.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Taipei.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, children are welcome, with free participation if under 4 years old (though a child seat fee applies).

What should I wear?
Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, dress appropriately—comfortable shoes and rain gear if needed.

Is this tour suitable for photographers?
Absolutely. The scenic spots and views, especially from Jiufen, are great for photography.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 17 days in advance, so planning ahead is recommended.

What if the weather is poor?
While the tour runs in all weather, poor weather might affect certain outdoor activities; however, many still find the experience rewarding.

Final Thoughts

This private 6-hour tour from Taipei offers an accessible, well-rounded introduction to some of Taiwan’s most charming spots. You’ll get a taste of the natural beauty at Shifen Waterfall, the lively atmosphere of Shifen Old Street, and the nostalgic allure of Jiufen’s streets and views. Guided by friendly, knowledgeable locals, you’ll gain insights into Taiwan’s culture and traditions that you might miss on your own.

The value here is clear—limited group size, flexible itinerary, and inclusive transport make for a smooth experience. It’s best suited for those who want a personalized, manageable day trip with plenty of opportunities for photos, good food, and memorable moments. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, this tour can serve as a perfect snapshot of northern Taiwan’s highlights.

If you prefer having a local guide handle the logistics while you focus on enjoying the scenery and flavors, this is a fantastic choice. Trust the reviews that praise its combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and attentive service—an authentic way to experience a slice of Taiwan.