From Taipei: Shifen, Jiufen, and Yehliu Geopark Day Tour Day Tours

Must Do Experiences

• Craft your own sky lantern at Shifen Old Street and release it into the sky while making a heartfelt wish

• Wander through the atmospheric cobblestone alleys of Jiufen, where neon signs and tea houses evoke a bygone era

• Stand in awe at Yehlyu Geopark's otherworldly rock formations sculpted by wind and waves over thousands of years

Hidden Gems

• Take a quiet stroll along the Shifen Stream boardwalk early in the morning when the crowds have yet to arrive

• Visit the lesser-known viewpoints at Yehliu Geopark beyond the main promenade for stunning coastal photography

• Explore Jiufen's back alleys away from the main drag to discover hidden artisan shops and local tea ceremonies

What Makes it Special

• Three distinct destinations — a riverside old street, a mountain town steeped in nostalgia, and a geological wonderland — all in a single day trip

• Hands-on sky lantern crafting experience with a bilingual guide who shares local stories and insider knowledge

• Comfortable roundtrip transportation from Taipei eliminates the stress of navigating Taiwan's rail and bus systems

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor exploration, with mild temperatures and lower rainfall. Early mornings at Shifen and Jiufen are ideal for avoiding the largest crowds and capturing the towns in a more serene atmosphere.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the sky lanterns at dusk when they glow against the darkening sky for a truly magical shot

• Visit Yehliu Geopark during golden hour for dramatic lighting on the iconic Queen's Head rock formation

• Use a wide-angle lens in Jiufen's narrow alleys to capture the layered rooftops and neon signage

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

When writing your wish on the sky lantern, take a moment to reflect quietly — the tradition is deeply personal and meaningful to locals Show respect in Jiufen's tea houses by removing your shoes if prompted and trying the local oolong tea as a gesture of appreciation

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Shifen Sky Lantern Festival — held annually during the Lunar New Year period, transforming the night sky with thousands of glowing lanterns

• Jiufen Night Market — comes alive in the evenings with local street food, live performances, and a nostalgic atmosphere

• Yehliu Geopark seasonal marine life tours — spring and summer offer opportunities to spot unique coastal flora and fauna

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Keep a firm grip on your sky lantern while it is being lit and released to avoid accidents

• Stay aware of your surroundings on Jiufen's steep and uneven stone steps, especially when it is raining

• Follow your guide's instructions at Yehliu Geopark and stay on designated pathways near the coastal cliffs