Shifen, Jiufen, Heping Island Park & Raohe Night Market Day Tour

Experience the Charm of Northern Taiwan with the Shifen, Jiufen, Heping Island Park & Raohe Night Market Day Tour

If you’re looking for a well-rounded day exploring some of Taiwan’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning, this tour delivers. For just $44 per person, you’ll spend about 9 hours hopping from the historic streets of Jiufen to the natural beauty of Shifen Waterfall, and finally to the lively Raohe Night Market, with a detour to the scenic Heping Island Park in Keelung. Starting from Taipei Main Station, this guided experience offers the perfect mix of culture, nature, and local flavor.

Two things we particularly like are the opportunity to release sky lanterns at Shifen—a uniquely Taiwanese experience—and the chance to walk along the rocky shores of Heping Island, enjoying panoramic ocean views. The guide’s helpful tips and insights add a lot of value, making these stops more meaningful than just a quick photo op.

A potential consideration is the temporary suspension of the Shifen Waterfall bridge for maintenance. The organizers have prepared an alternative route, which may involve extra walking, so it’s worth being prepared for some physical activity.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of culture, scenic views, and vibrant street life. If you’re someone who prefers not to figure out transportation or city logistics on your own, this structured trip hits the highlights with ease and provides plenty of opportunities to sample local treats.

Key Points

• Affordable and well-structured: At just $44, this tour offers a lot of value for those wanting to see top spots without breaking the bank.
• Diverse destinations: From natural waterfalls and coastal parks to historic streets and night markets, you’ll get a full taste of Taiwan’s multifaceted character.
• Expert guides: Many reviews praise the guides’ knowledge and helpful attitude, making the experience more engaging and informative.
• Flexible stops: The itinerary balances guided activities with free time, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
• Authentic experiences: Creating a sky lantern or tasting local street food connects you with Taiwan’s culture in a meaningful way.
• Good for various travelers: Whether you’re into nature, history, or just want to sample Taiwanese street food, this tour covers it all.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point: Taipei Main Station

The journey begins bright and early at Taipei Main Station, a hub that’s easy to reach via public transportation. The group gathers around 9:00 am, and from there, you’ll hop into a comfortable vehicle—likely a bus or van—that whisks you to the first stop. The group size is capped at 40 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.

Heping Island Park: A Coastal Retreat

Your first stop is Heping Island GeoPark in Keelung, where you’ll spend about 70 minutes exploring the scenic coastline. This park is a slice of Taiwan’s rugged landscape, with rocky shores, walking paths, and sweeping ocean views. The admission fee of NT$120 is included, so you get a sense of value right from the start.

According to rave reviews, visitors love the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to stretch their legs after the bus ride. You might find yourself snapping photos of dramatic rock formations or just soaking in the sea breeze. The park’s natural beauty is a highlight, and many mention that it’s a calming start to the day.

Jiufen Old Street: A Walk Through Time

Next, around an hour and a half is dedicated to Jiufen Old Street, a historic cobblestone alley lined with tea houses, snack stalls, and shops selling local crafts. This area is famous for inspiring the setting of films like “Spirited Away,” and it offers a vivid glimpse into Taiwan’s gold rush past.

Here, you’ll have about 90 minutes to wander, taste local treats, and soak up the atmosphere. Many visitors enjoy trying local specialties like taro balls, peanut ice cream rolls, and herbal teas. The guide might share stories about the town’s history, enriching your experience. With free admission, it’s a laid-back stop that feels like stepping into a living postcard.

Shifen Waterfall and Shifen Old Street: Water, Wishes, and Lanterns

After Jiufen, a short drive brings you to Shifen Waterfall, often called the “Little Niagara” of Taiwan. Although the waterfall suspension bridge is under maintenance, the tour guides have planned an alternative route—so there’s still a chance to enjoy the lush scenery and the sound of cascading water. Expect about 50 minutes at this stop, where you can stroll along trails that lead beside the waterfall or simply take in the view.

Next, you’ll visit Shifen Old Street, famous for the tradition of releasing sky lanterns. You’ll have the chance to write your wishes on a lantern and send it floating into the sky—a magical experience that many travelers cherish. The entire stop lasts around 50 minutes, and it’s a chance to engage with a cherished local custom.

Many reviews highlight how memorable this part is; one traveler said they loved the personalized experience of making wishes. It’s a lively, colorful scene, with vendors selling lanterns, snacks, and souvenirs.

Final Stop: Raohe Night Market

The tour concludes at Raohe Night Market, a bustling hub of Taiwanese street food and shopping. You’ll arrive in the early evening, giving you time to explore on your own. The market is home to several Michelin-recommended stalls, offering an array of local favorites—from stinky tofu to bubble tea.

While the tour doesn’t include a meal, many reviews suggest that the market’s variety makes it easy to sample a little of everything. This is a perfect place to experience local life in Taipei and pick up some souvenirs. You’ll be dropped off near the market, where you can continue exploring if you wish.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

The tour provides a licensed English-speaking guide, transportation, and insurance, which add to the peace of mind—especially if you’re unfamiliar with Taiwan. The admission to Heping Island Park is included, but food and some local transport costs (like Jiufen’s shuttle bus fare of NTD$15) are on you.

A noteworthy point is that children in infant seats require an additional TWD 300, so if traveling with little ones, plan accordingly. The start time at 9:00 am ensures you make the most of daylight, especially for outdoor stops.

Considerations and Tips

• The waterfall suspension bridge is under maintenance, so be prepared for some extra walking if you want to see the waterfall area.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, but some walking is involved, including cobblestone streets and uneven paths.
• Timing is well-paced, but if you’re someone who likes a slower, more relaxed experience, be aware of the tight schedule at each stop.
• The self-arranged meals at Raohe Night Market give you flexibility but require some planning if you have specific dietary preferences.

Authentic Experiences That Stand Out

Reviews mention the knowledgeable guide, who provides insights and tips that enhance your understanding of each location. The sky lantern release at Shifen, in particular, is noted as a memorable highlight—an activity that captures the essence of Taiwanese culture. Many also appreciate the scenic coastal walk at Heping Island and the delicious street food at Raohe, which truly bring local flavors alive.

Travelers have praised the excellent value—getting to see several key sights for such a reasonable price, with good organization and a friendly guide. The inclusion of park admission and insurance simplifies the planning, so you can focus on enjoying the day.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who want a balanced day of sightseeing—combining natural beauty, cultural highlights, and lively street scenes—without the hassle of navigating public transport themselves. If you’re short on time but eager to see Taipei’s northern treasures, this tour hits the major spots efficiently.

It suits travelers who enjoy authentic experiences like lantern releases and street food, as well as those who appreciate knowledgeable guides who enrich the journey. The moderate pace and mix of activities make it ideal for a broad range of visitors—families, couples, or solo explorers.

The Sum Up

This tour offers an excellent way to see Taipei’s northern highlights in a single day. The mix of natural scenery, historic streets, and vibrant markets makes for a memorable experience that balances sightseeing with culture. With friendly guides, good value, and thoughtfully chosen stops, it’s a smart choice for travelers who want an authentic taste of Taiwan without the stress of planning every detail.

While the waterfall bridge maintenance might be a small disappointment, the alternative route still provides plenty of scenic and cultural value. If your goal is to enjoy a well-rounded, engaging day exploring Taiwan’s natural beauty, historic towns, and lively night markets, this tour is a solid investment.

For those who love engaging guides, scenic spots, and street food adventures, it delivers what it promises—and more. Just be ready for a day full of walking, discovering, and sharing stories about Taiwan’s remarkable culture and landscape.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or families? Many reviews suggest that the tour is manageable for most travelers, including families. Keep in mind that some walking is involved, so be prepared for cobblestone streets and outdoor paths.

What is the main highlight of this tour? The sky lantern release at Shifen is often mentioned as a standout experience, along with the scenic coastal views at Heping Island.

How long do we stay at each stop? The stops range from about 50 minutes at Shifen Waterfall and Old Street to approximately 90 minutes at Jiufen Old Street, allowing enough time to explore but keeping the overall pace lively.

Are meals included? No, meals are not included; the tour ends at Raohe Night Market, where you can sample Taiwanese street food on your own.

What should I bring? Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and some cash for snacks or souvenirs are recommended.

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

This tour is a practical, value-packed way to experience the highlights of northern Taiwan—perfect for those wanting a well-organized, authentic, and memorable day out.