Shifen Old Street (εεθθ‘) is a former coal-mining street in Pingxi District, New Taipei City, famous for the still-active Pingxi Line railway that runs right through the middle of the shops, giving the surreal sight of trains passing at arm's length. It is the heart of Taiwan's sky-lantern tradition and the only government-sanctioned area in the country where paper wish lanterns may be released. Compact and close to Taipei, it makes an easy day trip, often paired with nearby Shifen Waterfall.
Release a sky lantern (tian deng): write your wishes and send a paper lantern skyward β roughly NT$200 for a single color, ~NT$250 for four colors (confirm current pricing)
The iconic 'street on the tracks' where real trains pass through the shopping lane, one of Taiwan's most photographed scenes
Shifen Waterfall (εεηεΈ), a ~40m-wide curtain-style falls about a 30-minute walk from the old street
Retro rail journey on the Pingxi Line connecting Shifen, Pingxi and Jingtong stations
Strolling the lane of local snacks and souvenir stalls, with an atmospheric glow after dusk
Good to know
SafetyThis is a live railway line running between the shops. Do not linger or take long photos on the tracks; step aside immediately when a train approaches, and hold small children's hands at all times.
RulesLanterns may only be released in designated legal zones (between the Shifen Visitor Center and Shigong Bridge along the Keelung River), generally from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Releasing outside these zones β e.g., on active tracks β can bring a fine (NT$10,000 in reported cases), so always follow shop staff guidance (verify rules and hours before you go).
SeasonThe Pingxi area is mountainous with fast-changing weather and frequent rain year-round. Bring an umbrella or rain poncho and wear non-slip shoes, as wet rails and stone paving get slippery.
MannersYou write wishes with brush and ink, which can splash onto clothes and shoes β avoid light-colored outfits. Lantern debris landing in the surrounding forests is an acknowledged environmental burden, so consider asking for an eco-friendly lantern if available.
CautionIn peak periods some shops rush visitors through to turn tables faster. Check the price board (which varies by number of colors) first, and confirm before paying whether photo/lighting assistance or any add-ons carry extra charges.
SafetyLanterns are lit with an open flame, so there is a burn and fire risk. Follow staff instructions when igniting and releasing, and keep children, strollers and long hair away from the flame.
Practical info
From Taipei Main Station, take a TRA train to Ruifang, then transfer to the Pingxi Line and alight at Shifen Station; the old street is right outside. A Pingxi Line one-day pass (around NT$80) lets you hop freely along the branch. Crowds are lighter before 10 a.m. or in the 3β4 p.m. lull, and lantern shops typically close around 5β6 p.m. The 2026 Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival falls in late February (roughly Feb 27βMar 3) with traffic controls in effect β confirm schedules, fares and service before visiting.
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