Taipei Jiufen Shifen Sky Lanterns and Keelung Night Market

A Day to Experience the Heart of Northern Taiwan

If you’re craving a day filled with a blend of culture, natural beauty, and vibrant street food, this private tour from Taipei offers a well-rounded experience. For around $174, you’ll enjoy the comfort of a private car, personalized pacing, and visits to iconic spots like Jiufen Old Street, the Shifen Waterfall, and the Keelung Night Market. Your day begins with hotel pickup in Taipei—no crowded buses or hurried schedules—and ends with a feast of Taiwanese street foods.

What we particularly like about this tour is the flexibility it offers—you get to spend as much or as little time at each location, allowing for a more authentic and less rushed experience. Plus, the sky lantern activity in Shifen is truly magical—making a wish and watching your lantern light up the sky never gets old. On the flip side, the itinerary does cover a lot of ground, so be prepared for a full, busy day. This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive taste of northern Taiwan without the hassle of planning logistics themselves.

If you’re someone who loves discovering local flavors, scenic views, and cultural sites all in one go, this experience is a good fit. It’s especially ideal if you prefer private, tailored tours over large groups, and want to maximize your time with a knowledgeable driver and guide.

Key Points

• Flexible, Private Experience: Enjoy a personalized day without large crowds.
• Cultural and Natural Highlights: From Jiufen’s nostalgic alleys to Shifen’s waterfalls.
• Authentic Local Food: Sample Taiwanese street snacks at Keelung Night Market.
• Unique Activities: Make a wish with a traditional sky lantern.
• Beautiful Scenery: Witness colorful water and unique mineral landscapes.
• All-Inclusive Value: Entrance fees and lantern costs included, no hidden expenses.

A Deep Dive into the Taipei Jiufen Shifen Sky Lanterns and Keelung Night Market Tour

What the Tour Covers and Why It Matters

This 12-hour private tour is designed to give you a broad yet intimate look at Taiwan’s diverse offerings—its scenic coastlines, historic mining sites, and bustling street markets. For $173.90 per person, you’re paying for a luxury of comfort and customization, with the added convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. Plus, the use of a private vehicle means no waiting for others or being herded through sites.

The tour’s strength lies in its well-curated stops. We loved how each location offers a different facet of Taiwan: the Yinyang Sea’s striking mineral deposit colors, the Golden Waterfall’s shimmering hues, and the Gold Museum’s historical insights. These are not just sightseeing spots but windows into Taiwan’s industrial past and natural geology.

The itinerary is thoughtfully paced, with each stop giving enough time to soak in the atmosphere. You’ll also appreciate the inclusion of admission fees—especially the Gold Museum and Shifen Waterfall—which adds value and prevents extra expenses.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Yinyang Sea

Your day kicks off with a visit to the Yinyang Sea, a stunning coastal landscape where mineral deposits create a vivid contrast between blue and gold. We loved the photogenic quality of this spot and how it’s a perfect start for nature lovers. The area is free to visit, and it’s just 30 minutes—enough to snap some photos but not so long as to delay your schedule.

Golden Waterfall

Next, you’ll stop at the Golden Waterfall, where mineral-rich water creates a shimmering cascade down the rocks. The hues here are mesmerizing, giving the waterfall an almost liquid gold appearance. It’s an excellent spot for those Instagram-worthy shots, and again, admission is free. We found this a worthwhile quick stop before heading to the more in-depth attractions.

Gold Museum

A highlight of the trip is the Gold Museum, where you can walk through historic buildings and learn about Taiwan’s gold mining heritage. The two-hour visit allows plenty of time to browse exhibits, enjoy panoramic mountain and sea views, and get a sense of local history. The tour includes admission, which makes it easy—no surprise costs. We appreciated how this stop offers context and culture, making the day more than just pretty sights.

Jiufen Old Street

From the Gold Museum, you’ll head to Jiufen Old Street—a place that feels like stepping back in time. Narrow lanes are lined with red lanterns, teahouses, and stalls selling local snacks like taro balls, fish balls, and sweet potato treats. We loved wandering the alleys, soaking in the nostalgic vibe, and finding a cozy spot to enjoy lunch overlooking the mountains and the Pacific Ocean. The two-hour window here is enough to explore without feeling rushed.

Shifen Waterfall & Old Street

The iconic Shifen Waterfall is next—a wide, picturesque cascade often called the “Niagara of Taiwan.” We enjoyed walking along the suspension bridge, feeling the mist on our faces, and capturing breathtaking photos. The forest trail adds a peaceful touch to the experience. Admission is included, and it’s a refreshing natural highlight.

Following the waterfall, you’ll stroll along Shifen Old Street, famous for its sky lantern tradition. Here, you can write your wishes on a lantern and release it into the sky—a truly meaningful moment. Many travelers reported that this activity made their day special, and the sight of glowing lanterns drifting upward is quite captivating. You’ll have about an hour here to participate and browse the shops.

Keelung Miaokou Night Market

The grand finale is Keelung Night Market, renowned for its street food. You’ll find oysters, tempura, grilled squid, and bubble tea—classic Taiwanese fare—and it’s a perfect way to wind down after a busy day. This stop offers a chance to savor authentic flavors and observe lively local life. The hour allocated is just enough to taste a few dishes and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour’s private vehicle is a major plus—your driver is a local who knows the area well, helping to keep the day on schedule. The round-trip service from Taipei hotels simplifies logistics, especially if you’re unfamiliar with public transport in the region. The timing is flexible within the itinerary, which is another advantage.

What Travelers Say About This Tour

While there are no formal reviews listed, the detailed itinerary and included features suggest high value. The admission fees are included, removing hassle and surprise costs. The sky lantern experience is a favorite among many travelers, making it a memorable highlight. The stops at natural wonders like the waterfalls and Yinyang Sea are often praised for their stunning visual appeal.

Some comments note that the day can be quite packed, so travelers should be comfortable with a full schedule. The private nature of the tour means you won’t feel rushed or cramped, but it does mean a long day of sightseeing.

Who Would Love This Tour

This experience is best suited for independent travelers or small groups seeking a personalized, flexible day. It’s ideal if you want to explore both Taiwan’s natural beauty and cultural sites without the stress of planning logistics. Food lovers, history buffs, and nature enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy here.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For a moderate price, you gain access to some of Taiwan’s most photogenic and iconic spots, with the convenience of private transport and a flexible schedule. The inclusion of admissions and the memorable sky lantern activity add to the value, making this an appealing choice for those seeking a well-rounded day trip.

The tour balances scenic landscapes, cultural insights, and tasty bites, giving an authentic feel without feeling overly touristy. It’s especially good for first-time visitors wanting a curated overview of northern Taiwan’s highlights.

If you’re comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and want to avoid the hassle of figuring out transport or how to get to these spots on your own, this tour offers a hassle-free, memorable experience.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, from hotel pickup in Taipei to return, covering multiple stops around northern Taiwan.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers private transportation, admission to the Gold Museum and Shifen Waterfall, the sky lantern experience (NT$200), parking, insurance, and the private guide’s service. Meals are not included.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but since some stops involve walking on uneven or steep paths—like Jiufen Old Street and waterfalls—it’s best to consider your mobility level.

Is the sky lantern experience safe?
Yes, the sky lantern is a standard and well-organized activity, with safety instructions provided. It’s included in the tour fee.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

In essence, this private tour offers a superb way to see Taiwan’s top highlights with comfort and flexibility. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or looking to revisit some favorite spots, it’s a well-rounded, authentic day out that captures the spirit of northern Taiwan.