Jiufen Old Street is a narrow, lantern-lit lane winding through a former gold-mining village on a hillside in Ruifang, New Taipei City, Taiwan. It flourished during the Japanese colonial era's gold boom, declined after mining ended in 1971, and was revived by film and tourism into one of the most popular day trips from Taipei. Its covered alleys are lined with food stalls, souvenir shops, and traditional teahouses overlooking the mountains and sea.
The iconic evening scene of red lanterns above the stepped alley near A-Mei Teahouse (阿妹茶樓)
Sweeping hillside views over the mountains and the northeast coast
Local street snacks such as taro balls (yuyuan / 芋圓)
Sipping tea with a snack set at a traditional teahouse with a sea view
Wandering atmospheric lanes steeped in gold-mining history
Good to know
SafetyExpect many steep, narrow stone steps and slopes that can be slippery. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes and avoid heels. There are almost no barrier-free facilities, so wheelchair and stroller access is very difficult.
SeasonThe mountain setting brings frequent rain (reportedly many rainy days per year) and mist. Carry a folding umbrella or rain jacket and consider waterproof footwear.
SafetyIn the evening the narrow lanes get extremely crowded, with people going up and down bunching together. Watch for pickpockets in the crush; wear bags in front and keep valuables secure.
CautionBe wary of touts offering unofficial taxis or inflated fares near Ruifang Station and bus stops. Insist on a meter or confirm the price in advance, and prefer regular buses (e.g., 965 / 1062) or the train-plus-bus route.
MannersTeahouses often require a minimum order (a tea-and-snack set per person) and may add a separate water/seating charge. Confirm the terms before sitting, and when taking photos in the narrow lanes, avoid blocking the flow of people.
RulesPrices, opening hours, bus routes, and teahouse booking policies change often by day and season, so verify the latest details before you go. The street itself is a public road with no entry fee, but shop hours differ between weekdays and weekends.
Practical info
From Taipei, take a train to Ruifang Station and transfer to a local bus (e.g., 788), or ride a direct city bus such as 965 or 1062. Most shops open after about 10 a.m.; a weekday morning is calmer if you want to avoid the evening crush. Return buses are busiest in the evening (roughly 7–9 p.m.), so allow extra time.
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