Taiwan TST: Private Tour Taipei Yehliu, Chaojing, Shifen, Jiufen

A Private Day Tour of Taipei’s Hidden Gems and Famous Spots

If you’re after a full but relaxed day exploring Taipei’s most beloved sights, this private tour offers a balanced blend of natural wonders, coastal views, and historic streets. For just $200 per group (up to four people), you’ll get nearly 10 hours of personalized sightseeing, guided by knowledgeable chauffeurs and local guides who know how to make the most of your time.

The tour visits Yehliu Geopark, famous for its unique rock formations like the Queen’s Head; the colorful fishing village of Keelung, with its vibrant port scenery; the scenic Chaojing Park, which has been transformed from a waste collection site into a lovely seaside spot; the impressive Shifen Waterfall, often called Taiwan’s Niagara; the nostalgic Shifen Old Street with its old railway station and lanterns; and the enchanting Jiufen Old Street, a mountain town filled with history, snack stalls, and narrow alleyways.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the flexibility and personal attention it offers. Your chauffeur, often praised for his good English and clean vehicle, acts as both driver and guide, helping you navigate and offering insights. The timing is well-managed, giving you time to wander and take photos without feeling rushed. Plus, the tour highlights some of Taiwan’s most photogenic and culturally rich sites in a single, manageable day.

That said, a consideration worth noting is the admission fee to Yehliu Geopark (NT$120 per person), which you’ll need to budget for separately. Also, since this is a private tour, expect to pay extra if you want to extend your day or visit additional sites—there’s an extra hour charge of NT$500 if you go over the scheduled time.

This tour is best suited for travelers who value personalized service, want to see a variety of sights at their own pace, and enjoy engaging guides. It’s especially good for those with a limited schedule or those who prefer to avoid large group tours crowded with strangers.

Key Points

• Customizable private experience with flexible timing and itinerary adjustments.
• Knowledgeable guides who explain the sights and help with photos.
• Beautiful scenery including unique geological formations, waterfalls, and vibrant local streets.
• Convenient transportation in a clean, air-conditioned vehicle with a professional chauffeur.
• Cost-effective for small groups, offering personalized attention and comfort.
• Additional costs include entrance fees and optional extras, so plan accordingly.

Exploring the Full Itinerary

Yehliu Geopark: Marvel at Nature’s Sculptures

Your day begins at Yehliu Geopark, which has become a symbol of Taiwan’s geological wonders. Known for its strange rock formations, including the famous Queen’s Head, the park showcases nature’s artistry. As one reviewer noted, “We loved the way our guide explained the formations, making it more than just a walk.”

The admission fee of NT$120 per person isn’t included, but it’s worth the small extra to get up close and walk along the dramatic cape. You’ll need around 1 hour 30 minutes here, enough to snap photos and soak in the views without rushing.

Keelung: Colorful Coastal Charm

Next, the tour stops at Zhenbin Port, where vibrant Color Houses line the harbor. These brightly painted buildings are a photographer’s dream and offer a lively contrast to the rocky coast. As one traveler put it, “The cheerful colors and bustling port made for great photos.” It’s a quick 30-minute visit, perfect for a walk and some snapshots.

Chaojing Park: From Garbage to Vantage Point

Chaojing Park has an unusual backstory—it was once used for garbage collection but was transformed by the National Museum of Marine Science and Technology into a scenic seaside spot. It’s a peaceful place to enjoy sea views, and the story behind its rebirth adds a touch of local resilience. Expect around 1 hour here; note that the entrance isn’t included.

Shifen Waterfall: Taiwan’s Most Popular Waterfall

The Shifen Waterfall is often called the “Little Niagara” for its wide, cascading flow. This spot is a favorite, and from reviews, it’s clear why—“The waterfall is stunning, with plenty of places to jump from, though swimming isn’t allowed,” one person shared. Expect about 40 minutes to appreciate the scenery, take photos, and feel the spray.

Shifen Old Street: Nostalgia and Lanterns

Wander through Shifen Old Street, a charming lane filled with souvenir stalls, snack vendors, and the iconic old railway station. Historically used for transporting coal, the street now thrives on its nostalgic charm—and the lantern releases at night are world-famous. Travelers say, “It’s a lively street with a great atmosphere,” and spend around 1 hour 30 minutes exploring.

Jiufen Old Street: A Mountain Town of Mystique

The final stop is Jiufen, a mountain retreat with narrow lanes, tea houses, and mountain views. Originally a gold mining town, it’s now a cultural hub where you can try local snacks and soak in the historic ambiance. One reviewer called it their “favorite part of the tour,” noting the intriguing maze of alleyways. Spend about 1 hour 30 minutes here, enough to wander and enjoy the scenery.

The Value of Personal Guided Tours

This private tour’s value lies in its tailored pace, insider knowledge, and the ability to customize stops. Unlike large group tours, you won’t be rushing from site to site—your guide helps you focus on what interests you most, whether it’s the geological formations or the charming streets of Jiufen.

The chauffeur-driven vehicle is a highlight—clean, comfortable, and equipped with bottled water—making the long drives pleasant. The guides’ basic English skills seem sufficient for explaining the sites and answering common questions, which is often appreciated by travelers seeking a smooth experience.

The Cost and What You’re Paying For

At $200 for a group of up to 4, this tour offers considerable value. The price covers transportation, parking, and fuel, but admission fees are extra. Given the personalized service, flexibility, and the chance to see multiple sites in one day, many find it a worthwhile investment—especially compared to crowded group tours or unreliable public transportation.

Considering the Drawbacks

Some reviews mention disappointment about admission fees not being included—a reminder to budget for entrance costs. Also, since this is a private experience, additional hours or extra stops incur extra charges, so if you want to extend your day, plan ahead.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour suits adventurous travelers who appreciate flexibility and authentic insights. It’s ideal for those traveling with friends or family who want to see a mix of natural and cultural sights without the hassle of planning every detail. If you enjoy guided commentary, great photo opportunities, and a comfortable ride, this experience will likely delight you.

Travelers with limited time in Taipei will find this tour a practical way to cover a broad range of highlights efficiently. It’s particularly appealing for those who prefer private, tailored experiences over large, impersonal group excursions.

Final Words

If you’re after a well-organized, personalized day exploring Taipei’s scenic and cultural treasures, this private tour delivers. You’ll get to visit iconic landmarks like Yehliu, Jiufen, and Shifen, all with a knowledgeable guide and the comfort of private transportation. The flexibility to adjust your schedule and the quality of guides make it a strong contender for a memorable, hassle-free day.

While you will need to budget for entrance fees and some optional extras, the overall experience offers great value—especially if you’re keen to avoid the crowds and travel at your own pace. This tour is perfect for curious travelers who want a meaningful, insider look at Taiwan’s best sights without the stress of navigating alone.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
Since the tour involves walking around sites like Yehliu Geopark and Jiufen’s narrow streets, it might not be ideal for those with mobility issues. The vehicle does the driving, but some stops require standing and walking.

Do I need to prepare for entrance fees?
Yes, the Yehliu Geopark costs NT$120 per person, which is not included. Other sites generally don’t have entrance fees, but it’s good to check in advance if you plan to visit additional attractions.

Can this tour be customized?
Yes, it’s a private tour, so your guide and driver can usually accommodate specific requests or make adjustments during the day.

What is the approximate duration of each stop?
Yehliu Geopark: 1.5 hours; Keelung: 30 minutes; Chaojing Park: 1 hour; Shifen Waterfall: 40 minutes; Shifen Old Street: 1.5 hours; Jiufen Old Street: 1.5 hours.

Is lunch included?
No, meals are not included. You’ll have time to grab snacks or lunch at your convenience during the day.

What language skills do guides have?
Guides have basic English skills, enough to explain major sights and help with photos, ensuring good communication.

Will I be picked up from my hotel?
Yes, pickup is offered, making the start of your day smooth and convenient.

What if my group is larger than four people?
The price listed is for up to four; larger groups may need to inquire about additional costs or consider different arrangements.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but keep in mind the walking involved and the length of the day. It’s best for children who can handle a full day of sightseeing.

How do I book this tour?
You can book directly through Viator or similar platforms, and confirm details with the provider for any special requests.

Whether you’re after a scenic adventure, cultural insights, or just a hassle-free way to see Taipei’s highlights, this private tour offers a practical and enjoyable option. Pack your camera, wear comfortable shoes, and get ready for a day full of beautiful views and meaningful experiences.