7-Hour Join tour – Jiufen Village & Shifen Town

A Detailed Look at the 7-Hour Join Tour – Jiufen Village & Shifen Town

If you’re visiting Taipei and looking to escape the city’s hustle for a few hours, this 7-hour small-group tour offers a beautifully balanced taste of Taiwan’s most picturesque and culturally rich spots. For just $39 per person, you’ll visit Jiufen, a hilltop town famous for its nostalgic streets and tea houses, and Shifen, with its lively old street and stunning waterfall. The tour starts in the early afternoon, making it ideal for late risers, jet lagged travelers, or those wanting a more relaxed day.

What we love most about this experience is its personalized feel—with a small group capped at 15—allowing for more interaction and flexibility. Plus, the beautiful scenery at each stop, from the misty waterfalls to the colorful sky lanterns, makes it worth every penny. The comfortable round-trip transportation and knowledgeable guides help take the stress out of planning.

However, keep in mind that this tour involves a fair amount of walking and may not be suitable for those with mobility issues or older travelers who find long strolls challenging. Also, since food and souvenirs are not included, you’ll want to budget extra for snacks and purchases along the way.

This tour suits travelers who love a mix of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and authentic local experiences—especially those who appreciate the value of small-group tours for a more intimate look at Taiwan’s highlights.

Key Points

• Authentic Small-Group Experience: With a cap of 15 people, this tour offers a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere.
• Scenic & Cultural Highlights: From the waterfalls to old streets and traditional teahouses, you get a well-rounded peek into Taiwan’s heritage.
• Comfortable Transportation: Round-trip travel from central Taipei in a well-equipped vehicle simplifies logistics.
• Flexible & Accessible: Perfect for late risers or those with a leisurely pace, but requires moderate physical activity.
• Affordable Value: At $39, the tour packs in multiple key sights, guided insights, and smooth transit.
• Authentic Memories: The sky lantern release at Shifen is a highlight that many travelers cherish.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Timing

The tour begins at Taipei Main Station M3 around 9:00 am, giving you ample time to get ready and arrive without rushing. From there, the group is transported via air-conditioned vehicle, making the journey comfortable even on hot days or rainy weather. We appreciate that the tour is designed to give you a late afternoon experience, allowing you to enjoy the sights without the busy crowds of daytime travelers.

First Stop: Shifen Old Street

Upon arrival at Shifen Old Street, you’ll find yourself walking along a lively street that literally runs alongside active train tracks — a striking sight that grabs your attention immediately. Shops line the street, selling traditional snacks, souvenirs, and, of course, the famous sky lanterns. Many reviews highlight how memorable it is to write wishes on a lantern and release it into the sky, a symbolic act many find both fun and meaningful.

The activity costs extra, but the experience of watching your lantern float upward, carrying your hopes or dreams, is often described as unforgettable. The street buzzes with energy, and you’ll notice a variety of local treats, though these are at your own expense. The lively atmosphere makes it a perfect place to soak in local culture, snap photos, or simply enjoy the colorful chaos.

Shifen Waterfall: Little Niagara of Taiwan

Next, you’re taken to Shifen Waterfall, often called the “Little Niagara.” This wide, powerful cascade is a sight to behold, particularly on sunny days when rainbows dance in the mist. The roar of the water combined with the lush greenery surrounding it makes for a breathtaking scene. This stop typically lasts about 50 minutes, giving you enough time to walk along the viewing platforms and appreciate the natural beauty of the area.

Many travelers mention the misty spray creating rainbows as a highlight, with some noting it’s a perfect spot for photos. The waterfall is free to visit, and the walk around it isn’t strenuous but does involve some uneven paths, so moderate fitness is recommended.

The Charm of Jiufen Old Street

The final and longest stop is Jiufen Old Street, where you’ll stroll along cobblestone lanes that evoke old-world Taiwan during its gold-mining days under Japanese rule. The architecture, teahouses, and narrow streets retain a nostalgic charm that transports you back in time.

Guides often mention how Jiufen’s unique atmosphere makes it one of Taiwan’s most popular tourist destinations. Here, we loved the way the streets are lined with shops selling local snacks, teas, and souvenirs, giving a taste of both history and local flavor. Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides like Tony, who provide insightful context about the area’s history and culture.

Expect to spend around 2.5 hours exploring, which is enough to soak in the scenery, enjoy a cup of tea, and browse the shops at your leisure. The streets can get crowded, especially on weekends, so early in the afternoon offers a good balance of lively atmosphere and manageable crowds.

Transportation and Group Size: Why It Matters

The round-trip transfer in a comfortable vehicle means you won’t have to worry about confusing public transit or navigating unfamiliar routes. This convenience is especially valuable when you’re short on time. The small group size ensures a more intimate experience, with the flexibility to ask questions and perhaps even linger at favorite spots longer.

Cost and Value

At $39, this tour offers excellent value. Guided tours often come at a premium, but for this price, you’re getting transportation, a professional guide, insurance, and a thoughtfully curated itinerary. While food is extra, the cost of individual excursions or taxi fares for independent trips can quickly add up. Plus, the guided aspect means you’ll gain local insights that enhance your visit beyond what you’d discover alone.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback

The reviews consistently highlight the knowledgeable guides like Joana and Tony, who make the trip more engaging. A reviewer notes, “Joana was so nice and friendly, really helped us get the best from Taiwan,” which speaks to the personalized service you receive.

Others mention how beautiful the scenery was, particularly the waterfalls and the atmospheric streets of Jiufen. One traveler shared, “The tour was very knowledgeable and provided a great experience,” emphasizing the value of guided insights.

Many travelers appreciate the small-group setting, describing it as feeling more customized and less rushed. The sky lantern activity, in particular, comes up often as a cherished memory—“an unforgettable experience,” as one review puts it.

Practical Considerations

While the tour is ideal for most, a few points are worth noting. Because it involves a lot of walking—whether exploring Jiufen’s cobblestone streets or the viewing platforms at Shifen Waterfall—those with mobility issues may find it challenging. The tour is not recommended for older travelers who are unable to walk for extended periods.

Also, since food and souvenirs are not included, you’ll want to bring cash or an Easycard for small purchases and snacks along the way. The sky lantern activity costs extra, so budget accordingly if you want to participate.

Lastly, weather can influence the experience—bad weather might lead to cancellations or rescheduling, but the tour provider offers full refunds or alternative dates, which adds peace of mind.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for budget-conscious travelers seeking a well-organized, authentic experience without the hefty price tag. If you enjoy scenic natural beauty, like waterfalls and mountain views, along with cultural charm, such as old streets and traditional teahouses, you’ll find plenty to love here.

It’s also excellent for visitors who prefer guided trips to navigate unfamiliar areas comfortably, especially if they don’t want to rely on public transit. The small-group setting suits travelers who appreciate a more relaxed, personal atmosphere without the crowds of larger tours.

However, if you’re looking for a more luxurious or customized experience, or have mobility issues, this might not be the right fit. Still, for most, the combination of scenery, culture, and friendly guides makes this a highly worthwhile addition to your Taipei itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 9:00 am at Taipei Main Station M3, providing plenty of time to enjoy the sights before late afternoon.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including transportation and sightseeing stops.

Do I need to bring my own transportation card?
Yes, an Easycard with at least NT$30 or NT$30 cash is recommended for small purchases or the sky lantern activity.

Are meals included?
No, meals and snacks are not included; you’ll need to buy your own food at your expense.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour involves walking, so consider your child’s physical comfort.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This 7-hour small-group tour strikes a great balance between scenic beauty, cultural depth, and comfort, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a taste of Taiwan’s highlights away from the city. It offers a well-organized, affordable way to see Jiufen’s nostalgic streets, Shifen’s waterfalls, and enjoy the magic of sky lanterns.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning fan, you’ll appreciate the personalized guidance and the chance to experience some of Taiwan’s most beloved spots in a relaxed, enjoyable way. It’s especially suited for travelers who value authentic experiences and don’t mind a bit of walking.

If the idea of wandering through traditional streets, marveling at waterfalls, and releasing lanterns sounds appealing, this tour will surely leave you with lasting memories of your Taipei visit.