Jiufen

Overview

Jiufen is an enchanting hillside town perched above the Pacific coast, famous for its narrow lantern-lit lanes, traditional teahouses, and atmospheric old-town charm that is widely believed to have inspired the spirit world in Hayao Miyazaki's Spirited Away.

Highlights

• Old Street (Jishan Street): A narrow, winding lane packed with tea shops, taro ball stalls, and souvenir vendors beneath red lanterns.
• A-Mei Tea House: The most photographed building in Jiufen, a multi-story red-lantern-draped teahouse overlooking the ocean.
• Ocean Views: Dramatic panoramas of the Pacific coastline and Keelung Mountain from the hilltop lookouts.

History

Jiufen boomed during the 1890s gold rush and again during Japanese colonial-era gold mining. When the mines closed in the 1970s, the town was abandoned until Hou Hsiao-hsien's 1989 film A City of Sadness brought it back to life as a heritage tourism destination.

Visitor Tips

• Weekday Visit: A weekend visit means crushing crowds; weekday evenings are the most atmospheric time.
• Bus from MRT: Take bus 965 from Taipei Main Station or bus 1062 from Ruifang Station.
• Duration: 2.5–3.5 hours.