Introduction
Nestled in the heart of Pingxi District in New Taipei City, Shifen Old Street is one of Taiwan’s most charming and atmospheric destinations. Originally a coal mining town during the Japanese era, it has now transformed into a nostalgic hot spot known for its scenic railway, rich history, and lantern-filled skies. Whether you’re a photographer, a foodie, or a cultural traveler, Shifen offers something unique and unforgettable.
The Iconic Train Tracks That Run Through the Street
What makes Shifen truly stand out is its railway that runs straight through the old street. Trains still pass regularly, and the experience of watching them glide by just inches from storefronts is unlike anywhere else in the world. This charming oddity not only draws visitors in droves but also pays homage to the area’s mining past, when trains were the main mode of transporting coal.
Sky Lanterns and Wishes
Perhaps the most iconic activity in Shifen is releasing sky lanterns. Tourists and locals alike flock here to write their wishes or prayers on lanterns and release them into the sky, often against the backdrop of the historic Shifen Station. It’s a tradition rooted in local culture and one of the most Instagrammable experiences you can have in Taiwan.
Food, Souvenirs, and Local Culture
Shifen Old Street is also a haven for street food lovers and souvenir seekers. From grilled sausages and peanut ice cream rolls to taro balls and bubble tea, the food here is flavorful and accessible. You’ll also find quirky shops selling handcrafted lanterns, nostalgic toys, and other gifts that capture the essence of Taiwanese heritage.
A Photographer’s Paradise
The vintage vibe of the buildings, the narrow cobbled lanes, and the rhythmic sound of trains provide a photographer’s dream setting. Whether it’s candid street scenes or carefully timed shots of the train rolling through the crowd, there’s always a perfect moment waiting to be captured.
Perfect for a Day Trip from Taipei
Thanks to its easy accessibility, Shifen Old Street makes for a perfect day trip from Taipei. Visitors often combine it with nearby attractions like Shifen Waterfall, Pingxi, or Jiufen. Whether you’re spending just a few hours or the entire day, Shifen offers a glimpse into a slower, simpler time while delivering memorable experiences.
Jiufen to Shifen Itinerary
- 09:00 – 12:00: Explore Jiufen Old Street & Lunch
What to Do:
Wander through Jiufen Old Street, lined with red lanterns and charming teahouses.
Taste famous snacks like taro balls, fish ball soup, and herbal rice cakes.
Visit Jiufen Teahouse or the iconic A-Mei Teahouse for scenic views and premium Taiwanese tea.
Browse through souvenir shops and take in the nostalgic atmosphere.
- 12:00 – 13:30: Travel to Shifen
How to Get There:
Bus from Jiufen to Ruifang Station (~15–20 mins)
Transfer to the Pingxi Line Train to Shifen Station (~40 mins)
Expect some waiting time if using the train due to limited service frequency
- 13:30 – 17:00 – Discover Shifen
Things to Do:
Release a Sky Lantern on the old railway tracks
Visit the Shifen Old Street for traditional snacks and souvenirs
Walk to Shifen Waterfall (about a 15-minute walk from the train station)
Enjoy nature, photography, and river views along the way
- 17:00 – 19:00: Head Back to Taipei
Return Options:
From: Shifen Waterfall (Bus Station) Recommend
Take Muzha Pingxi Shuttle Bus(Bus No. 795) to to MRT Muzha
Read more about Shifen Old Street and Shifen Waterfall
Or
From Shifen Station, take the Pingxi Line back to Ruifang, then transfer to Taipei
Shifen to Jiufen Itinerary
- 09:00 – 11:30: Explore Shifen
Take the MRT to MRT Muzha (BR02 Exit) → then take Muzha Pingxi Shuttle Bus(to Shifen) (Bus No. 795). (NOT to Pingxi) → get off at Shifen Waterfall
Read more about Shifen Old Street and Shifen Waterfall
Things to Do:
Visit Shifen Waterfall
Walk to Shifen Old Street (about a 15-minute) for traditional snacks and souvenirs
Release a Sky Lantern on the old railway tracks
- 11:30 – 13:00: Travel to Jiufen
How to Get There: Train + Bus
Take the Pingxi Line train from Shifen Station back to Ruifang Station (~40 mins).
From Ruifang, catch a Keelung Bus (788, 827, or 965) to Jiufen Old Street (~15–20 mins).
- 13:00 – 17:00: Lunch + Stroll Through Jiufen Old Street
What to Do:
Wander through Jiufen Old Street, lined with red lanterns and charming teahouses.
Taste famous snacks like taro balls, fish ball soup, and herbal rice cakes.
Visit Jiufen Teahouse or the iconic A-Mei Teahouse for scenic views and premium Taiwanese tea.
Browse through souvenir shops and take in the nostalgic atmosphere.
- 17:00 – 19:00: Dinner & Sunset
Climb up to the lookout for panoramic sunset views.
Settle in at a cozy teahouse as the sun sets and lanterns light up the streets.
Take beautiful photos of the golden hour and stay for early dinner or dessert.
- 19:00 – 20:30: Return to Taipei
By Bus: Take Keelung Bus 1062 or 965 back to Taipei (~1.5 hours).
Pro Tip: Catch the bus before 20:00 to avoid long waits.
The Sky Lantern Colors Represent
The sky lantern colors represent different blessings
▎Red: Health and Peace
▎Yellow: Money and Wealth
▎White: Future and Brightness
▎Orange: Love and Marraige
▎Pink: Bllss and Happiness
▎Blue: Career and Promotion
▎Purple: Study and Test
▎Green: Vigour and Success
▎Magenta: Attraction and Popularity
Where the Most Popular Location?
The main locations for releasing sky lanterns include Pingxi , Shifen and Jingtong. Shifen Old Street is the most popular location and the earliest place to release sky lanterns. So most tourists come here to release sky lanterns.
Can I release sky lanterns any day?
You can also buy and release sky lanterns any day of the year at Pingxi, Shifen or Jingtong. There is a time limit for releasing sky lanterns. It is forbidden to release sky lanterns between 22:00-06:00.
You can release sky lanterns any day of the year. However, there is a Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival celebration around the Yuanxiao Festival (Lantern Festival) every year. The Lantern Festival, celebrated around the 15th day of the first lunar month. If you have time, you can attend the event.
When is the best time to release sky lanterns?
The best time to release sky lanterns is usually between 16:00-19:00.
What should I pay attention to when releasing sky lanterns in Pingxi?
It is safer to choose a windless day to release sky lanterns. You need to keep a distance between people and objects to avoid the risk of burning.
Sky Lantern Price?
- Single color sky lantern: about NT$150
- Two-color sky lantern: about NT$200
- Colorful sky lanterns: about NT$300
- Environmentally friendly sky lanterns: about NT$400
How to release alantern?
- Go to a shop and buy a colorful lantern.
- Write words of blessing and wishing on the lanterns.
- Ask the staff to help light the fuel in the lantern.
- Hold it down while the hot air fill the lantern.
- Release the lantern to float upwards.
These lanterns are waterproof, so rain is not a problem. However, windy weather can cause serious damage.
Things to Do in Shifen Old Street
Shifen Old Street is world-famous for its sky lantern tradition. Visitors can write their wishes, hopes and dreams on the brightly coloured paper lanterns and then release them into the sky, watching them float through the air, conveying messages of love, good luck and prosperity.
This practice symbolizes hopes and dreams being taken to heaven. Whether it’s your first time or your fifth time, watching the lanterns rise to the top of the mountain is an unforgettable experience.
In addition to its beautiful scenery, the town’s vintage train station and bustling street markets offer a glimpse into Taiwan’s history, making for a truly unique experience for visitors. Whether you want to release sky lanterns, admire majestic waterfalls, or just stroll through the old streets, Shifen Old Street will give you an unforgettable experience.
Release a Sky Lantern at Shifen Old Street
One of the most iconic experiences in Taiwan is releasing a sky lantern on the railway tracks of Shifen Old Street. Travelers from all over the world visit this charming village to write their wishes, dreams, or blessings on colorful lanterns before sending them floating into the sky.
Each lantern color symbolizes a different type of wish—red for health, yellow for wealth, blue for career, and pink for love—making it a meaningful and personalized activity. With the backdrop of historic buildings and the sound of nearby trains, the moment feels both nostalgic and magical.
Releasing a sky lantern is more than just a tourist attraction—it’s a cultural tradition rooted in hope and renewal. Originally used as signals during the Qing Dynasty, these lanterns have evolved into a powerful symbol of peace and aspiration.
Vendors along Shifen Old Street offer lanterns, brushes, and ink so you can participate in this memorable ritual. Whether during the day or at sunset, watching your lantern rise into the sky is a moving and unforgettable part of your Taiwan journey.
■ Shifen old street: Sky Lantern Experience (Colorful Sky Lantern Voucher) 吉祥天燈 (Below)
Watch the Train Pass Through the Old Street
One of the most unique and thrilling sights in Taiwan is watching a train pass directly through the bustling Shifen Old Street. Unlike typical railway crossings, this line cuts straight through narrow pedestrian streets, where tourists shop, eat, and take photos.
When the train horn sounds, crowds quickly part to let the train pass—just inches away from food stalls and souvenir shops. It’s a surreal and exciting experience that perfectly captures the blend of history and everyday life in this former mining village.
This working train line, part of the historic Pingxi Branch Line, adds an authentic charm to your visit. You can easily check the train schedule posted nearby to time your visit and catch this must-see moment.
Whether you’re snapping pictures or simply enjoying the scene, watching the train roll by is an unforgettable reminder of Shifen’s rich cultural heritage and its seamless mix of past and present.
Tip: Check the train schedule and find a spot to shoot a video, one of the most iconic photos of Taiwan.
Street Food & Local Charm
Beyond lanterns, Shifen is also a haven for delicious Taiwanese street food. From grilled sausages on a stick to peanut ice cream rolls wrapped in cilantro (trust us—it works), there’s no shortage of local treats to try while you explore.
The shops also sell hand-crafted goods, lantern-themed souvenirs, and nostalgic candy that kids and adults both love.
Tip: Bring cash, as many vendors may not accept credit cards. Grab a few snacks and enjoy them as you explore the old railway town.
Shop for Souvenirs
From handmade lanterns to nostalgic toys, keychains, postcards, and railway-themed trinkets, Shifen’s shops are great for picking up affordable and unique souvenirs. Many stores offer lantern-themed gifts you can bring home as a memory of your wish.
Take Instagram-Worthy Photos
Shifen is incredibly photogenic—capture shots of lanterns floating above the tracks, the bustling market, and the moment the train rolls through the crowd. The charming mix of old architecture, nature, and railway scenery makes it one of the most photographed places in Taiwan.
Visit Shifen Waterfall
Just a short walk from Shifen Old Street lies the breathtaking Shifen Waterfall, often referred to as the “Niagara Falls of Taiwan.” As the widest waterfall in the country, it spans over 40 meters and drops gracefully into a serene river basin, creating a dramatic curtain of water and mist.
Surrounded by lush greenery and scenic trails, it’s the perfect escape for nature lovers and a popular stop on any Pingxi District itinerary. The well-maintained paths and viewing platforms make it easy to get multiple perspectives of the falls, including panoramic shots and close-up views.
Along the way, you’ll cross suspension bridges, pass smaller cascades, and maybe even spot a rainbow on sunny days. Whether you’re a photographer, hiker, or casual traveler, a visit to Shifen Waterfall adds a refreshing and picturesque touch to your day trip from Taipei.
Read more about Shifen Waterfall
Distance: Approximately a 15 minute walk from Shifen Old Street.
Scenic Route: The path to the waterfall is picturesque, featuring lush greenery and scenic views.
Highlight: The waterfall, often referred to as the “Little Niagara of Taiwan,” is especially stunning after rainfall .
Shifen Waterfall Map
Shifen Old Street to Shifen Waterfall
It is about 800 meters from Shifen Old Street to Shifen Visitor Center, and about 15 minutes walk to the Shifen Waterfall Park, passing by Shifen Street vendors along the way.
It takes about 15 minutes to walk from the visitor center to Shifen Waterfall. Read more about Shifen Waterfall
Opening Hours
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
Price
Cost: Free Entrance
The Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Shifen Old Street is during the cooler, drier months from October to April, when the weather is most pleasant for walking, sightseeing, and sky lantern activities.
During this period, the skies are clearer—perfect for photos and lantern releases. Weekdays are ideal if you prefer a quieter experience, as weekends and public holidays can get very crowded with both locals and tourists.
If you want to catch a truly magical moment, plan your visit in the late afternoon and stay until early evening. That way, you can explore the shops, release a lantern during golden hour, and watch the area light up as dusk falls.
Weekdays: To avoid the crowds, plan your visit on weekdays. Weekends and public holidays can be particularly busy .
Time of Day: Arrive early in the morning to enjoy the street before it gets crowded. The late afternoon also offers beautiful lighting for photos.
The most famous event in Shifen is the annual Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival. For a cultural highlight, visit during the Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival, held annually around the Lunar New Year. Each year, this magical celebration draws thousands of visitors to Shifen Square, where hundreds of glowing lanterns are released into the night sky.
Beyond the lantern launches, the festival features live performances, traditional music, and festive activities that showcase Taiwan’s rich culture. It’s a moving experience to see the sky fill with hopes and dreams written on lanterns by people from around the world.
Because this event is so popular, it’s best to arrive early and use public transportation, as parking is very limited. Whether you’re making a wish for the new year or simply soaking in the atmosphere, the Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival is an unforgettable part of visiting Shifen.
How to Get to Shifen Old Street
Shifen Old Street is located in Pingxi District, New Taipei City, and is a popular day trip destination from Taipei. While it’s not directly accessible by MRT, getting there is still easy via public transport, tour, or private car.
Day Tour From Taipei (Easiest for First-Time Visitors)
Many travel agencies offer guided day tours to Shifen Old Street combined with other nearby attractions like Yehliu Geopark or Jiufen. Tours usually include round-trip transportation, a guide, and sometimes meals, making them ideal for travelers seeking a hassle-free, one-stop experience.
Ideal for: Travelers short on time or those who want a hassle-free trip.
■ Shifen Sky Lantern Experience (Colorful Sky Lantern Voucher) Shifen old street
■ Yehliu Geopark, Jiufen, Shifen, and Golden Waterfall
■ Yehliu, Jiufen and Shifen with Taiwanese Pastry Making
■ Houtong Cat Village, Jiufen and Shifen
■ Heping Island, Shifen and Jiufen
■ Jiufen Old Street & Yinyang Sea Half-day Historical & Nature Tour
Car Rental with Driver from Taipei
- Fastest and most comfortable, especially for groups or families.
- For a personalized and flexible itinerary, renting a car with a driver is a great option.
- Allows you to explore Jiufen and surrounding areas at your own pace.
- Can be arranged through travel agencies or private drivers online.
■ Taipei Car Rental with Driver- Customized itinerary (Chinese/English/Korean/Japanese)
■ Private tour Car Rental with Driver : Jiufen , Pingxi (Chinese/English/Korean/Japanese)
By MRT + Bus (Most Popular)
- Take the MRT to MRT Muzha (BR02 Exit)
- Take Muzha Pingxi Shuttle Bus(to Shifen) (Bus No. 795) (NOT to Pingxi)
- Get off at Nanshan Community (Crossing the Jingan Suspension Bridge) or Shifenliao Bridge
Last 4 stops: Nanshan Community → Shifenliao Bridge → Shifenliao → Shifen Visitor Center (Shifen Waterfall)
Example: Bus No. 795
There is only one exit at Muzha MRT Station. There is no difference between the left and right exits. When you go out, walk toward the main road opposite.
The bus stop is on the road opposite the temple, not in front of it. You will see the bus stop sign after you cross the zebra crossing.
There are white lines on the floor for those who need to queue up for bus No. 795. You need to take Muzha Pingxi Shuttle Bus (Bus No. 795 to Shifen). The last stop is (Shifen Waterfall).
Note: Bus No. 795 goes to Pingxi and Shifen, so be sure to look carefully (to Shifen).
This bus is just like any other bus in the city. You need to swipe your EasyCard when you get on and off the bus. The bus only has a dozen seats, so you may need to stand for 30-60 minutes. If you have children, I would not recommend taking the bus unless you can guarantee a seat.
By Train (Popular)
Start at Taipei Main Station
- Take a TRA (Taiwan Railway Administration) train to Ruifang Station.
- Travel time: ~45 minutes.
- Fare: ~NT$60 (local train).
Transfer at Ruifang Station
- At Ruifang, switch to the Pingxi Line (a small local train).
- Take the train heading toward Shifen Station (~35 minutes).
- Trains on this line come every 60–90 minutes, so check the schedule in advance.
Arrive at Shifen Station
– Once you get off, you’re already on Shifen Old Street — the railway runs right through it.
Tip: Buy a Pingxi Line one-day pass if you plan to visit other stops like Pingxi or Jingtong.
By Car
From Taipei, take National Freeway 1 east toward Keelung, then south to Shifen. The drive takes about an hour, depending on traffic.
Parking: There are parking areas near Shifen Visitor Center; however, they can fill up quickly on weekends and holidays.
Travel Tips
Avoid weekends and public holidays if you prefer fewer crowds.
Check train times in advance, especially for the Pingxi Line.
Nearby Attractions to Shifen Old Street
Shifen is perfectly located within New Taipei City’s scenic Pingxi District, making it a great base to explore several other cultural and natural attractions. Here are the top nearby spots you won’t want to miss:
Shifen Waterfall
Just a 15–20-minute walk from Shifen Old Street, Shifen Waterfall is Taiwan’s broadest waterfall, often compared to Niagara Falls. With walking trails, scenic bridges, and observation decks, it’s a peaceful and photogenic spot.
Pingxi Old Street
Located about 20 minutes by train along the Pingxi Line, Pingxi is another historic railway town. It’s quieter than Shifen but just as charming, with street food, traditional shops, and lantern releases. Great for travelers who want a slower pace and fewer crowds.
Jingtong Old Street
The last stop on the Pingxi Line, Jingtong is rich in Japanese colonial architecture and mining history. Visit the Jingtong Railway Story House, stroll the quiet lanes, and write wishes on bamboo tubes to hang near the tracks.
Sandiaoling Waterfall Trail
If you’re into hiking, start at Sandiaoling Station on the same train line and take a 2–3 hour nature walk through lush forest trails, past several beautiful waterfalls. It’s one of the best hidden hiking gems in northern Taiwan.
Jiufen Old Street
About a 40-minute drive or 1.5-hour public transit ride, Jiufen is a must-visit mountain village known for its lantern-lit lanes, tea houses, and historic charm. Many travelers pair Shifen and Jiufen in one day trip from Taipei for a full cultural experience.
Xiaozishan Trail
Located near Houtong or Ruifang Station, this short but steep hiking trail rewards visitors with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. It’s great for adventurous travelers wanting to squeeze in a bit of nature between old streets.