Navigating Jiufen from Taipei: Your Ultimate Guide

Whether you're a local or a tourist, the journey from Taipei to the charming mountain village of Jiufen can be both exciting and challenging. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the best ways to reach this scenic destination.

Bus Routes: The Reliable Option

There are multiple reliable bus routes that connect Taipei and Jiufen, offering a scenic and relatively quicker travel option. Most buses take approximately one hour to reach Jiufen, and the mountainous terrain provides breathtaking views of the river valleys and city.

New Bus Route 965

A month ago, a new bus route, Bus 965, was introduced, making the journey more convenient and efficient. This direct route from Taipei to Jiufen Old Street operates from several MRT stations, including Fuzhong, Banqiao, Ximen, and Beimen. You can find more route details here. The journey takes about 50-60 minutes, and tickets cost 90 NT each way. For those who are looking for a more flexible option, 180 NT unlimited hop-on/off round trip tickets are available at IBON or convenience stores like 7-11.

Bus No. 1062

Another popular option is the No. 1062 bus, which is more direct. Take this bus from Zhongxiao East Road to Jiufen. Since there are so many tourists, consider visiting the scenic attractions like the Yin Yang Sea and Golden Waterfall during the day. As for the night, Jiufen's stunning architecture, street art, and breathtaking views at twilight are simply unforgettable. Note that the bus frequently runs full, so if it's nearly packed, you might have to wait 10-20 minutes for the next one.

Trains: The Scenic Route

Finding a direct train to Jiufen might be a bit more challenging, but the Taipei Main Station offers great train services to Jinguashi, a neighboring town that's worth a visit on the same day. If you're up for the challenge, the train ride will be as scenic and as time-consuming as the bus option, taking roughly the same duration. However, for a seamless and possibly smoother journey, consider the TRA (Taiwan Railways Administration), which has super frequent departures from Taipei Main Station. A taxi is also an option, but given the mountainous terrain, the travel time is expected to be similar.

Planning Your Trip

Planning a day trip to Jiufen can be enhanced by avoiding busy days, such as weekends or public holidays. These occasions tend to bring large crowds, potentially ruining the tranquil atmosphere and increasing the frustration level in the narrow streets. Additionally, consider visiting correlated attractions like Jinguashi in the same day for an enriched experience.

Remember, Jiufen's charm lies in its solitude and unique beauty. By planning ahead and choosing the right time, you can make the most of your visit and enjoy the stunning views and cultural experiences that Jiufen has to offer.