About Shifen Waterfall
Taiwan’s Little Niagara. Nestled deep within the lush mountains of northern Taiwan, Shifen Waterfall is a natural wonder that draws travelers with its thundering power and serene beauty. Known as the “Niagara of Taiwan,” this 20-meter-high, 40-meter-wide curtain waterfall is the broadest in the country—and a must-see stop on any Pingxi Line adventure. Shifen Waterfall is a beautiful scenery away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Just an hour or so from Taipei, Shifen Waterfall offers the perfect day trip to reconnect with nature. Whether you arrive via the charming Shifen Old Street or hop off the nostalgic Pingxi Railway, the journey itself sets the tone with verdant forests, riverside paths, and occasional glimpses of passing sky lanterns. As you get closer, the sound of the rushing water gets louder, and then suddenly you’re there: a powerful horseshoe-shaped stream of water cascading over terraced rocks and into the misty emerald pool below. Shifen Waterfall is not only majestic, but also beautiful. The layered rock formations and forest backdrop create an ideal setting for photography. Early mornings often bring a gentle fog or even rainbows in the mist, making it feel almost otherworldly. Several viewing platforms offer different angles, and the gentle walking paths around the park make it accessible for all ages. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls or making wishes beneath flying lanterns, Shifen offers a unique blend of natural beauty, culture and charm. It is more than just a stop on the Pingxi Line. It’s a destination filled with soul, mist and magic.
Best Things to Do in
Shifen Waterfall is one of those rare places that delivers both peace and power. Whether you’re there for the perfect photo, the thrill of the sound, or simply to soak in the beauty of Taiwan’s natural side, it’s an unforgettable experience and one that will leave you refreshed, inspired, and maybe even a little mist-kissed. Visiting Shifen Waterfall is more than just watching water crashing against rocks; this Taiwan scenic spot offers a complete natural and cultural experience.
View the Waterfall from Multiple Platforms
The main attraction, of course, is Shifen Waterfall itself. Nicknamed “Taiwan’s Niagara Falls,” Shifen Waterfall is the widest in the country and impresses with both power and beauty. The waterfall plunges over 20 meters high and 40 meters wide in a stunning horseshoe shape. Various viewing platforms allow you to see the falls from multiple angles, perfect for photos and nature-lovers alike. Get up close to the waterfall’s spray or take panoramic shots from above. Best time to visit: early morning or after light rain, when mist and rainbows appear. Better photo conditions (you might even catch a rainbow).
Stroll Through the Shifen Scenic Area
Surrounding the waterfall are scenic walking trails through forests, riversides, and suspension bridges. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll. These paths are family-friendly and offer shaded, quiet places to enjoy Taiwan’s subtropical flora. The area is great for nature photography, bird watching, or simply relaxing. The bridges and suspension crossings make the walk feel more adventurous, especially after rain.
Try Local Street Food
Don’t leave without trying some delicious street food. After waterfall watching, refuel with Taiwanese snacks from the street vendors. Popular picks include grilled Taiwanese sausages, deep-fried taro balls, and the famous peanut ice cream roll with cilantro-a must-try combo of sweet, salty, and savory.
Shifen Waterfall Map
Opening Hours
Opening Hours: 09:00–16:30
Price
Shifen Waterfall Entrance Fee: Free Entrance
The Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Shifen Waterfall is during spring or early summer, in the morning or late afternoon, when nature and light align to create a truly magical scene. Whether you’re after powerful water views, peaceful nature walks, or that perfect Instagram shot, timing your trip right will make all the difference. Morning (8 AM – 11 AM): Great lighting, fewer crowds, and higher chance of rainbows. Late Afternoon (3 PM – 5 PM): Softer light, perfect for golden-hour photos. Avoid noon for harsh sunlight and big tour groups. Plan your visit during local festivals like: Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival (February) – Magical lantern displays
How to get to?
About Day Tour
Because you are not familiar with transportation, your round trip could take up to 4.5 hours. If you live in Taipei, I recommend taking a day tour. This way you can have fun without worrying about which station to get off and transfer to another bus, and then you can sleep peacefully on the car. For convenience, almost all Foreign tourists will choose a day tour to Jiufen and Shifen, or rent a car and let the driver go to Jiufen and Shifen. Don’t doubt it, one-day tour is your best choice.
Day Tour From Taipei (klook)
■ Shifen Sky Lantern Experience (Colorful Sky Lantern Voucher) Shifen old street ■ Yehliu Geopark, Jiufen, Shifen, and Golden Waterfall ■ Yehliu, Jiufen and Shifen ■ Yehliu, Jiufen and Shifen with Taiwanese Pastry Making ■ Houtong Cat Village, Jiufen and Shifen ■ Yehliu, Jiufen and Shifen ■ Heping Island, Shifen and Jiufen
Car Rental with Driver From Taipei (klook)
■ Taipei Car Rental with Driver- Customized itinerary (Chinese/English/Korean/Japanese) ■ Private tour Car Rental with Driver : Jiufen , Pingxi (Chinese/English/Korean/Japanese)
How to get to?
By MRT + Bus: Take the MRT to MRT Muzha (BR02 Exit) → then take Muzha Pingxi Shuttle Bus(to Shifen) (Bus No. 795) ◆Muzha Pingxi Shuttle Bus(to Shifen) (Bus No. 795) Bus From: Muzha Station(Google Coordinates: 24°59’51.4″N 121°34’26.4″E) To: Shifen Visitor Center(Shifen Waterfall) By TRA Train: Take the MRT or TRA to Taipei Station → transfer to the TRA Badu Station or Ruifang Station → then take the TRA to Shifen Station.
🔥ChiaTe Pineapple Cake / Delivery or Airport Pickup
■ ChiaTe Bakery Pineapple Pastry-Delivery(Home / Hotel) / Airport Pickup (klook) Prepare your trip to Taiwan?✈️Buy discounted tickets in advance (Klook) ■ EasyCard and SIM Card Package ■ Taipei 101 Observatory Ticket ■ Taipei Double Decker Sightseeing Bus ■ National Palace Museum Ticket ■ Taipei Fun Pass (Taipei 101, National Palace Museum, Taipei MRT, city buses, and 6 Taiwan Tourist Shuttle) ■ Taipei Transport Fun Pass (Taipei MRT, city buses, 6 Taiwan Tourist Shuttle routes, and Maokong Gondol) ■ Taipei Metro (MRT) Day Pass ■ (Taiwan Pass) HSR + MRT + Taiwan Tourist Shuttle ■ Taiwan High Speed Rail Day Pass ■ Taiwan High Speed Rail Ticket for non-Taiwanese Discounts or Buy 1 Get 1 ■ Taiwan High Speed Rail Joint Ticket ■ (Taiwan Pass) Taiwan Railways + MRT + Taiwan Tourist Shuttle