Taipei: Jiufen & Pingxi Sky Lanterns with Shifen Waterfall

Sky Lanterns, Waterfalls & Old Streets in One Day

You release a sky lantern in Pingxi, walk the lantern-lit alleys and tea houses of Jiufen Old Street, taste local taro balls, and stand at the base of Shifen Waterfall. Transport, guide, travel insurance, and one lantern per group of four are included. Hotel pickup and drop-off in Taipei are part of the package, and the guide speaks English throughout.

Step-by-step itinerary

Stops and time spent at each

1. Shifen Waterfall40m
2. Pingxi Branch Rail Line2h · entry included

Explore Jiufen and Pingxi highlights

• Visit Yin Yang Sea near Jiufen
• See Golden Waterfall
• Walk Jiufen Old Street
• View Shifen Waterfall
• Release sky lantern in Shifen
• Drink nostalgic Taiwanese soft drink

The experience

The sky lantern rises from your hands, and for a moment you're not thinking about the itinerary or the time. You're just watching it climb. That's the moment this day is built around. Before that, though, there's the drive out of Taipei through the northern hills, your guide pointing out the shift in the landscape as you head toward Pingxi and Shifen. The Pingxi Branch Rail Line runs through a narrow valley, and you'll walk along the tracks where locals still release lanterns during the festival season. One lantern comes with your group of four, and the guide handles the logistics. You just light it and let it go.

Jiufen Old Street comes next, and it's exactly what the photos suggest: narrow alleys, hanging lanterns, the smell of grilled squid and taro balls, tea houses tucked into corners where the light is always amber. The stairs are real, there's no way around that, but the guide knows the quieter routes and where to pause. You'll taste the famous taro balls, which are sweeter and chewier than you'd expect, and the old street has the feel of a place that's been doing this for decades, not a recreation. The Yin Yang Sea sits nearby, where mineral deposits turn the water two colors, and the Golden Waterfall catches the light in a way that makes the photos make sense.

Shifen Waterfall is the physical anchor of the day. It's tall (you feel the mist before you see the full drop), and the walk down to the viewing platform is steep enough that you notice it, but the guide paces it so you're not rushed. The waterfall itself is quieter than you might expect, which somehow makes it more present. After that, there's the drive back into Taipei, usually arriving by early evening. The whole day is about eight to nine hours from pickup to drop-off, and the guide is with you the entire time, handling the route, the timing, and the small logistics that would otherwise eat up your afternoon.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Taipei City, transportation in a private air-conditioned vehicle, an English-speaking driver guide, one sky lantern per group of four, travel insurance, and all fuel, parking, and toll fees. You'll have time to explore Jiufen Old Street and buy local food and drinks at your own expense.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day7 departure times: the first at 08:00, the last at 11:00

Book up to2d before

AgesAdult (3 and older) · Infant (under 3): free

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish and Chinese

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Moderate physical effortNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problemsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Justaiwantour

Is this one for you?Right for travelers based in Taipei who want to see the north's main attractions (lanterns, waterfalls, and old streets) without arranging transport or timing the stops themselves. The day involves sustained walking and stairs, so plan for comfortable shoes and a moderate pace. That's what fits all four stops into one afternoon.

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English and Chinese.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Infant (under 3): free.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

How long is the full day tour?

Approximately eight to nine hours from hotel pickup to drop-off in Taipei.

Is the sky lantern included?

Yes, one lantern is included for every group of four travelers. The guide assists with the release.

What's the walking difficulty?

Moderate. Jiufen Old Street involves stairs and narrow alleys. Shifen Waterfall requires a steep walk down to the viewing platform. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.

Is travel insurance included?

Yes, travel insurance is provided by the local operator. You'll need to provide passport details (name, gender, number, expiry, country) at booking.

What if the weather is bad?

The itinerary may adjust due to weather or traffic to ensure safety. Bring an umbrella or raincoat: Taipei weather can be unpredictable.

Does the tour include meals?

No meals are included, but you'll have time to buy food at Jiufen Old Street, including the famous taro balls. Bring cash for street food and purchases.

Can I bring luggage?

One piece of luggage per traveler is allowed. Oversized luggage is not recommended.

Is this suitable for pregnant travelers or those with back problems?

The tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers, those with spinal injuries, or those with poor cardiovascular health due to the walking and stairs involved.

Where is the pickup location?

Hotel pickup and drop-off are available anywhere within Taipei City. Provide your hotel name and address at booking.

What should I bring?

Cash (for food and purchases), comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket, and an umbrella or raincoat. Wear clothes suitable for walking and climbing stairs.