[Muslim-friendly] Private private charter. Houtong Cat Village. Shifen Sky Lantern Experience. Shifen Waterfall] Day Tours

Must Do Experiences

• Feed and cuddle the friendly stray cats that roam freely through Houtong Cat Village's old railway station

• Release a sky lantern at Shifen Old Street, writing your wishes as it floats into the twilight sky

• Stand in awe before the thundering Shifen Waterfall, Taiwan's widest waterfall, surrounded by lush forest trails

Hidden Gems

• Visit Houtong in the late afternoon when the golden light filters through the station roof and cats gather near the platform for feeding time

• Explore the lesser-known hiking trail behind Shifen Waterfall for a refreshing dip in natural pools away from the crowds

• Stroll along Shifen Old Street after dusk when the lanterns are illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for quiet reflection

What Makes it Special

• Halal-certified food and beverage options are carefully curated, with prayer facilities arranged throughout the itinerary

• Both the driver and vehicle are recommended by 4Muslims, ensuring a trustworthy and comfortable experience for Muslim travelers

• A dedicated driver-guide provides personalized attention and local insights tailored to your family or group's needs

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

The best time to visit is between October and April when the weather is cool and dry, perfect for outdoor exploration. Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable temperatures for walking through the villages and hiking near the waterfall.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the cats at Houtong during the golden hour for warm, dramatic lighting against the rustic railway backdrop

• For the sky lantern, choose the blue hour just before sunset when the lanterns glow against a deep blue sky

• At Shifen Waterfall, use a slow shutter speed to capture the silky flow of water cascading over the wide rock face

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

Show respect to the cats by feeding them only the food provided by local vendors and avoiding loud noises that may startle them. When releasing sky lanterns, make sure to write your wishes in a positive and respectful manner, as it is a cherished local tradition believed to carry prayers to the heavens.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Shifen Sky Lantern Festival held annually in February, featuring thousands of lanterns lighting up the night sky

• Houtong Cat Village hosts seasonal cat-themed events and photo contests throughout the year

• Shifen Waterfall area offers special night illumination events during the summer months for a breathtaking experience

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Keep a close eye on your belongings in crowded areas of Shifen Old Street, especially during peak tourist seasons.

• Wear non-slip shoes when visiting Shifen Waterfall as the stone pathways can be wet and slippery.

• Always follow the driver-guide's instructions and stay within designated areas for the safety of both yourself and the cats.