New Taipei: Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival Experience in Shifen

Imagine standing on a bustling street in Shifen, watching hundreds of sky lanterns rise like flickering stars, each carrying hopes and dreams into the night sky. For just $7 per person, this experience offers an authentic taste of Taiwan’s cherished tradition, combining cultural history with a lively, interactive activity. The tour typically lasts a day, beginning at the charming Shifen Old Street, where vendors sell lanterns, snacks, and souvenirs, and culminating in the magical moment when your lantern takes flight.

What we loved most about this experience is how accessible it is — it’s a hands-on tradition that feels genuine and inclusive, allowing you to personally craft and release your wishes. The second highlight is the visual spectacle itself. Watching thousands of glowing lanterns ascend into the night sky creates an almost surreal, communal feeling that’s hard to match elsewhere.

A small consideration is that the price includes only a single-color lantern, so if you’re eager for a multicolored display, you’ll need to pay extra. Also, it’s worth noting that transportation and guiding are not included, so you’ll want to plan how to get to Shifen ahead of time.

This tour suits travelers who value authentic cultural experiences, appreciate beautiful sights, and don’t mind a bit of crowd — as thousands of visitors come for this tradition each year, especially during festival times. If you’re keen on a meaningful, yet budget-friendly activity that connects you with local customs, this will be a highlight of your Taiwan trip.

Key Points

• Authentic Tradition: Participate in a centuries-old activity of releasing sky lanterns with your personal wishes.
• Affordable Price: At only $7, it offers a genuine, memorable experience without breaking the bank.
• Cultural Connection: Writing wishes in any language makes this an inclusive activity that connects you with Taiwan’s history.
• Visual Spectacle: The sight of thousands of lanterns floating into the night sky is truly breathtaking.
• Limited Inclusion: Only a single-color lantern is included in the price; additional options cost extra.
• Self-Guided: No tour guide or transportation included, so plan your journey accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review of the Pingxi Sky Lantern Experience

Location and Accessibility

The activity takes place in Shifen Old Street, a lively hub in Nantou County, Taiwan. It’s famous for its vibrant market stalls, traditional snacks, and, most notably, the sky lantern tradition. The meeting point is at No. 94, Shifen St., a central spot that’s easy to find once you’re in Shifen.

Getting there can be part of the adventure — many travelers arrive by local train or bus, which makes the experience even more authentic. Since transportation isn’t included, it’s wise to check your route in advance, especially if you’re coming from Taipei or other parts of Taiwan.

What to Expect at the Meeting Point

When you arrive, you’ll find vendors offering sky lanterns, each featuring a single color option included in your ticket. To participate, you’ll present your QR code or ticket to the staff, who will hand you a lantern. You’ll then have the chance to write your wishes or messages directly on the paper lantern, in any language.

The process is simple but meaningful: after writing your message, you’ll light a small candle inside the lantern. The staff will then help you release it into the sky, and your lantern will join thousands of others soaring upwards.

The Lantern-Making and Releasing Experience

The act of writing wishes is deeply personal. Many visitors choose to write about health, happiness, love, or future ambitions — it’s your moment to express what matters most. As you watch your lantern lift into the darkness, it feels like a small, tangible hope taking flight.

The visual effect of hundreds of lanterns rising creates a sense of unity and joy — a truly magical experience. Travelers have expressed that even when weather conditions aren’t perfect, the sight remains impressive. One reviewer noted, “great experience even when the weather was not cooperative,” emphasizing that the spectacle still holds its charm even with a bit of cloud cover or wind.

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Cultural Significance and History

Releasing sky lanterns is not just a tourist activity; it’s a tradition rooted in Taiwanese culture dating back to the 19th century. Originally, lanterns served as signals between villages or during wartime, but today, they symbolize hope and good fortune. Participating in this age-old custom offers a meaningful connection to Taiwan’s past, even as it remains a lively, modern spectacle.

The Atmosphere and Crowd

During peak times, especially around festivals, the streets can be crowded with thousands of visitors eager to participate. The energy is contagious, with vendors, families, and solo travelers all united by a shared tradition. You’ll find that the vibrant atmosphere adds to the experience, but it also means patience is needed, especially when purchasing a lantern or waiting for your turn to release it.

Cost and Value

For just $7, this activity is a remarkably good deal, considering the emotional and visual payoff. Since transportation and guides are extra, the overall expense remains affordable. If you wish to enhance your experience with multicolored lanterns or additional lanterns, those are available for purchase at extra cost — a small price for a more colorful display.

Reviews and Authentic Feedback

Feedback from previous participants is overwhelmingly positive. One traveler said, “great experience even when the weather was not cooperative,” highlighting the activity’s resilience. Another appreciated the “good flying” of the lanterns, noting how smoothly they launched into the sky. These comments reflect a consistent level of satisfaction with the core activity — a simple yet powerful tradition.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Dress appropriately: Avoid sandals, flip-flops, shorts, or sleeveless shirts, as these are not permitted.
• Arrive prepared: Since transportation isn’t included, plan your route early.
• Be mindful of weather: While the activity can still be beautiful in less-than-perfect weather, windy conditions might affect lantern flights.
• Bring a pen: While most vendors provide writing tools, bringing your own can make the process more personal.
• Respect the tradition: Use this as a genuine cultural experience rather than just a tourist photo op.

The Sum Up

This sky lantern experience in Shifen offers a beautiful blend of cultural authenticity and visual delight at an accessible price. It’s a chance to participate directly in a time-honored Taiwanese custom, writing wishes and watching them soar into the night sky. The activity’s simple but meaningful nature makes it ideal for those seeking an engaging cultural moment without a hefty price tag.

Travelers who appreciate authentic traditions, enjoy spectacular views, or want a wait-free, straightforward activity will find this experience rewarding. It’s especially ideal for those who value participation over passivity — you’ll leave with a tangible memory of your time in Taiwan.

If you’re after a cost-effective, heartwarming experience that connects you with local customs, this sky lantern tour will surely be a highlight. Just remember to plan your transport, arrive prepared, and embrace the joy of watching your wishes take flight.

FAQ

Is the sky lantern experience suitable for children?
Yes, children often enjoy writing wishes and releasing lanterns, making it a family-friendly activity. Just ensure safety and supervision, especially around the candles.

Can I customize my lantern?
The included option is a single-color lantern. If you want multiple colors, you’ll need to pay extra for additional lanterns or upgraded options.

What is included in the price?
You get one single-color sky lantern to write on and release. Other items like multi-colored lanterns or guided tours are not included.

Is transportation provided?
No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to make your way to the meeting point at No. 94, Shifen St., on your own.

What time does the activity start?
Start times vary; check availability when booking to see current starting times. The activity is valid for one day.

Is the activity wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the activity is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a range of mobility needs.

What should I wear?
Avoid sandals, flip-flops, shorts, or sleeveless shirts, as these are not permitted for safety reasons.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility if your plans change.

This review aims to help you make the most of your visit to Taiwan by understanding the true value and charm of the Pingxi Sky Lantern experience. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a meaningful cultural activity, it’s a moment you’re unlikely to forget.

You can check availability for your dates here: