Full-Day Tour in Shifen, Jiufen & Yehliu of Taipei (Incl. ticket)

Exploring Taipei’s Northeast Coast: A Full-Day Cultural and Natural Adventure

If you’re after an authentic taste of Taipei’s countryside and coastal wonders, this full-day tour offers just that. For around $44 per person, you get to explore three iconic spots—Shifen, Jiufen, and Yehliu—with a knowledgeable guide, a comfortable vehicle, and a well-paced itinerary that balances natural beauty with local charm. A highlight is the chance to create and release a Chinese lantern in Shifen, a moment many travelers find both memorable and meaningful.

What we love about this tour is how it combines interactive experiences like the lantern release with breathtaking scenery, especially the surreal rock formations at Yehliu. The guide’s detailed explanations make you feel connected to each location. The only potential hiccup? Given the tour’s busy schedule, some may find the time at each stop a bit tight, especially during peak seasons or in bad weather.

This trip suits travelers who appreciate cultural insights, enjoy stunning landscapes, and want a value-packed day in Taiwan’s countryside without the hassle of planning themselves. It’s ideal for those who don’t mind walking and want to see a mix of natural and historic sites in a single day.

Key Points

• Authentic cultural experience with lantern making and release in Shifen.
• Spectacular geological formations at Yehliu Geopark, a natural wonder.
• Rich local food sampling in Jiufen’s historic streets.
• Comfortable transportation with professional guides providing insights.
• Flexible itinerary with potential adjustments for weather or traffic.
• Value for money given the inclusion of transport, guide, and Yehliu entry.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Price and What It Means for You

At $44 per person, this tour offers substantial value when considering the multiple sites visited, professional guiding, and included admission to Yehliu Geopark. While meals and lantern expenses are separate, the overall package makes this a budget-friendly way to experience some of Taiwan’s most photogenic spots. Several reviews highlight the “great value,” especially considering the long, full-day itinerary with transportation and guiding included.

The Logistics: How the Day Unfolds

The tour begins at Taipei Main Station, with a prompt start that is close to public transportation, making it easy to access. Throughout the day, you’ll be driven comfortably between locations, with a licensed English-speaking guide sharing stories and tips, ensuring you get context beyond just sightseeing. The bus is usually not too crowded—most reviews mention groups of around 30 travelers, which balances social interaction with manageable group dynamics.

Your day will be flexible—traffic or weather might shift the schedule slightly, but the core stops remain the same. The tour ends near Raohe Street Night Market, giving you a chance to explore on your own afterward or grab a snack.

The Stops: What’s Special About Each?

Shifen Old Street and Waterfall

Your first stop is Shifen, a town famous for its vibrant cobblestone streets and the legendary Waterfall. Here, you’ll get to create a Chinese lantern, an activity that many reviewers find the highlight. “The guide was incredible” and “the photos are amazing” describe how memorable this moment can be. At TWD 150, the lantern costs extra, but the experience is well worth it—it’s an opportunity to make a wish and send it soaring into the sky.

The Shifen Waterfall offers a stunning backdrop—an easy walk from the town, it’s often called Taiwan’s “black pearl”. Expect to enjoy the sight of rainbow hues forming in the mist, and to get some great photos. Several visitors mentioned that the waterfall and lantern activity felt rushed, with about an hour allocated to both, which can be a tight fit.

Jiufen Old Street

Next up is Jiufen, a historic gold-mining town famous for its narrow, winding cobblestone streets and nostalgic atmosphere. As you stroll, you’ll sample local snacks, enjoy the scenic views, and soak in the old-world charm. The two hours here allow enough time to wander, shop, and taste the famous bowl of tea or local street foods.

Reviews praise the delicious food and the vibrant atmosphere, though some mention that the time feels a little limited to fully explore all the nooks and crannies. “You’ll love the views and the food,” one review states, pointing out that Jiufen’s unique blend of history and scenery makes it a highlight.

Yehliu Geopark

The last major stop is Yehliu Geopark, where thousands of years of geological forces have sculpted bizarre rock formations, including the famous Queen’s Head. The landscape looks like something straight out of a sci-fi movie—alien-like formations jutting from the ocean. The TWD 120 admission fee is included in your tour, so you can focus on marveling at the strange shapes.

Expect roughly 70 minutes here to walk along the scenic pathways, take photos, and appreciate the geological marvels. Many visitors mention the stunning views and how the formations change with the light and weather. “The terrain is surreal,” says one reviewer, highlighting how Yehliu offers a natural open-air classroom.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s inclusions—guidance, insurance, transportation, and Yehliu entry—make it straightforward and hassle-free. The guide’s knowledge is often praised, with many reviewers mentioning guides like Kelly, Maggie, or Pauline for their friendliness, helpfulness, and local insights.

However, extras like lunch, additional lanterns, and the weekend Jiufen shuttle bus fare are not included. The lantern’s cost is TWD 150 per color, which many find reasonable given the experience.

The Review Highlights

The tour consistently earns high praise, especially for guides who are described as friendly, knowledgeable, and caring. Reviewers like William, Tom, and Elba mention how their guides “made the trip fun” and “personalized the experience,” adding a meaningful touch to the day.

Many also appreciate the stunning scenery—from the rainbow in the waterfall mist to the strange rock formations at Yehliu. The local foods sampled in Jiufen also receive high marks, giving travelers a taste of authentic Taiwan cuisine.

Considerations and Tips

While the tour is generally very well received, some travelers mention that the limited time at each stop can feel rushed, especially during busy seasons. If you’re someone who likes to take your time, be prepared for a fast-paced day. Also, the tour involves a lot of walking, so wearing comfortable shoes is essential.

Weather can also impact the experience, especially at Yehliu—bad weather might lead to changes or cancellations, so keep an eye on the forecast and be flexible.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors to Taipei wanting a comprehensive day outside the city, blending nature, history, and local culture. It suits active travelers who enjoy walking and want engaging activities like lantern making. Those interested in geology or historic towns will find Yehliu and Jiufen particularly fascinating.

If you’re traveling on a budget but want a well-organized, guided trip that covers several highlights, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially suited for small groups or families who appreciate a personalized touch, given the praise for guides and the intimate experience.

Practical Tips for the Day

• Wear comfortable walking shoes because there’s a good amount of walking involved.
• Bring rain gear or an umbrella—weather can change quickly, and some stops are outdoors.
• Budget TWD 150 if you want to make and release your own lantern.
• Arrive early at the meeting point to avoid last-minute stress.
• Keep in mind the long hours (about 9)—a full day, but most find it worth it.
• Carry water and a snack for energy, even though stops for food are on your own.
• Prepare for some tight timing at Jiufen and Shifen, especially if you want to see everything.
• Be patient if delays occur due to traffic or weather—flexibility is part of the adventure.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour in Taipei’s northeast coast strikes a good balance of cultural activities, stunning scenery, and local flavors. The combination of interactive lantern releases, the spectacular geology at Yehliu, and the historic charm of Jiufen makes it a well-rounded experience. With guides praised for their friendliness and knowledge, you’re in good hands—making the effort feel rewarding rather than rushed.

It’s best suited for travelers wanting a comprehensive yet manageable way to see diverse highlights outside Taipei. If you enjoy active sightseeing, scenic landscapes, and authentic cultural moments, this tour will leave you with plenty of memories—and plenty of photos.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes transportation with a professional driver, making it convenient to move between sites without worry.

What’s the cost of the lantern? Lanterns cost TWD 150 per single color, payable on-site if you choose to participate in the lantern-making activity.

How long is the tour? The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting from Taipei Main Station and ending near Raohe Street Night Market.

Are guides available in English? Yes, the tour features licensed English-speaking guides who share insights throughout the day.

What should I wear? Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking. Weather can vary, so bring rain gear or an umbrella.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, giving you flexibility.

What if the weather is bad? The itinerary may be adjusted, or certain sites like Yehliu Geopark could be closed. The tour provider will offer a different date or full refund if canceled due to weather.

Are meals included? No, meals are not included, but there are opportunities to sample local foods in Jiufen.

How crowded does it get? The group size is around 30 travelers, which is manageable for most. Some reviews mention that larger groups can be a bit hectic.

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, children who enjoy walking and sightseeing will find it engaging, but be mindful of the walking distances and weather conditions.

In all, this tour offers a lively, immersive day out that combines natural wonders with cultural experiences, perfect for those who want to see Taiwan’s northeast coast without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.