Taipei: Jiufen,Shifen & Houtong Cat Village Private Day Tour

Discover Taipei’s Best in One Day: Jiufen, Shifen, Houtong Cat Village Tour

This private day tour takes you through some of Northern Taiwan’s most iconic spots—from the whimsical Houtong Cat Village to the historic charm of Jiufen Old Street, and the spectacular Shifen Waterfall. For $114 per person, you get about seven hours of carefully curated sightseeing, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, making it a hassle-free way to explore.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines authentic local culture with visually stunning scenery. You’ll love the chance to release sky lanterns in Pingxi, a memorable moment for writing wishes and watching them drift into the sky. Plus, the knowledgeable guides make navigating the busy spots both enjoyable and informative.

One potential consideration is that the tour schedule is tightly packed, so if you’re someone who loves lingering in each place or exploring at a slow pace, you may find the 2-hour stay at Jiufen a bit brisk. Still, the balance of guided highlights and free time strikes a good compromise for many travelers.

This tour suits first-time visitors eager to see a variety of top sights in one day, especially those who prefer organized, guided experiences that include transfers and insider tips. If you’re after an authentic, comprehensive taste of northern Taiwan’s highlights, this tour delivers.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: combines nature, history, and local culture in one day
• Convenient logistics: hotel pickup and drop-off in Taipei save time and effort
• Authentic moments: releasing sky lanterns and wandering Jiufen’s lanes
• Expert guidance: knowledgeable drivers and guides enhance the experience
• Scenic highlights: from waterfalls to hillside villages with panoramic views
• Good value: full-day guided tour for under $120 per person

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on Your Day Tour

This tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Northern Taiwan, perfect for anyone who wants to see the highlights without the hassle of organizing transportation or tickets. Starting with the hotel pickup in Taipei, you’ll hop into a comfortable vehicle with a friendly driver-guide who speaks English and Chinese, ensuring clear communication.

Shifen Waterfall and Old Street

Your first stop is Shifen Waterfall, often called Taiwan’s “Little Niagara.” We loved the way the waterfall’s wide cascade crashes into the rocks below, providing plenty of great photo opportunities. It’s about a 50-minute stop, enough time to snap some shots and walk around the viewing platforms.

Next, you’ll visit Shifen Old Street, famous for its railroad tracks running right through the town. Here, we enjoyed the lively atmosphere—venders selling local snacks, lanterns in vibrant colors, and the chance to write wishes on sky lanterns before releasing them into the sky. As one reviewer put it, “Peter was an excellent guide and driver who really added to our enjoyment of the day,” highlighting how guides enhance the experience.

Houtong Cat Village

The journey then takes you to Houtong Cat Village, a haven for animal lovers. This hillside village is filled with cats wandering freely among colorful shops and cafes. We loved the casual, relaxed vibe and how it’s a perfect spot for photos with adorable feline friends. The tour includes about 50 minutes here, giving you time to wander, take pictures, and absorb the quirky charm.

One reviewer noted, “Great tour guide who was knowledgeable and provided a great experience,” emphasizing how the guide’s insights make the visit more meaningful. If you’re allergic to cats or not a cat person, this might be a less appealing stop, but most visitors find it delightful.

Jiufen Old Street

The highlight for many is Jiufen Old Street, a hillside town that seems straight out of a storybook. Tucked into the mountains, it’s famous for its traditional teahouses, narrow alleys, and panoramic views. The tour allocates about 2 hours here—enough time to wander, sample local snacks, and soak in the nostalgic vibe.

People often compare Jiufen’s atmosphere to scenes from the animated film “Spirited Away”, which was inspired by this very place. The guided tour provides context and tips for exploring independently afterward, making it easier to enjoy the area without feeling rushed.

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The Scenic Finale: Shifen Waterfall

The day wraps up with a return to Shifen Waterfall, giving you a last chance to marvel at its natural beauty. The entire itinerary is designed to balance guided activities with free time, so you can enjoy each location at a comfortable pace.

The Value and Practicalities

At $114 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering it covers transportation, entrance fees, and the experience of releasing sky lanterns—activities that would be tricky to organize independently, especially with transportation logistics.

The round-trip transfers from your Taipei hotel are a real bonus, removing the stress of navigating public transit or hiring private transport. The driver-guide provides local insights, making the experience richer and more engaging, as one guest said, “He also let us know on some tips around the city and for Raohe Night Market.”

The tour runs for about 7 hours, with starting times subject to availability. Keep in mind that timing can be tight, especially at Jiufen, so if you prefer a more leisurely exploration, consider if a shorter or private tour might suit you better.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private experience is ideal for those who want a comprehensive snapshot of Northern Taiwan in a single day, especially first-timers. It’s perfect if you appreciate guided logistics and local insights, and aren’t keen on planning every detail yourself. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off makes it especially appealing for travelers staying in Taipei.

If you’re looking for authentic moments, like releasing sky lanterns and wandering historic streets, this tour delivers. And if you’re keen on scenic waterfalls and hillside villages with stunning views, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of nature, culture, and charming local scenes. The guides’ knowledge and the seamless transportation make it a practical choice, especially for travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing time without the hassle of logistics.

While it’s a fairly full schedule, the variety of stops ensures you’ll leave with a rich, authentic impression of Northern Taiwan. For those who value convenience combined with authentic experiences, this tour strikes a good chord.

If you’re after a comprehensive, guided day that highlights Taiwan’s most photogenic and cultural spots, this experience is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip hotel pickup and drop-off in Taipei City, making logistics simple and stress-free.

How long do we stay at each stop?
You’ll spend about 50 minutes at Shifen Waterfall, another 50 minutes exploring Shifen Old Street, 50 minutes at Houtong Cat Village, and around 2 hours at Jiufen.

What activities are included?
You’ll enjoy guided visits to each location, with the opportunity to release sky lanterns in Pingxi, an activity included in the tour.

Are meals included?
No, meals and beverages are not included, so plan to bring snacks or plan for lunch during your free time at Jiufen.

Is it suitable for families or travelers with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking along narrow, sometimes uneven streets, especially in Jiufen and Houtong. It’s best for those comfortable with moderate walking.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel plans.

This private tour captures the essence of Taiwan’s scenic and cultural highlights, tailored for those who want a convenient, authentic, and engaging day exploring the north of the island.

You can check availability for your dates here: