Shifen Waterfall (十分瀑布) in Pingxi District, New Taipei City, is Taiwan's largest curtain-type waterfall, roughly 40m wide and 20m tall, and is often called the 'Little Niagara of Taiwan.' When sunlight hits the mist a rainbow can appear over the plunge pool, giving it the nickname 'Rainbow Pool.' Admission has been free since the end of 2014, making it one of the most popular easy day-trip nature spots from Taipei.
The broad, powerful curtain waterfall (about 40m wide, 20m tall) seen head-on from the front viewing platform
The rainbow that can form in the mist on sunny mornings, earning its 'Rainbow Pool' nickname
A scenic trail from Shifen Station crossing suspension bridges (such as Siguantan Bridge) above the Keelung River
Shifen Old Street, a 15–20 minute walk away, famous for releasing sky lanterns right on the railway tracks
Pairing the visit with a nostalgic ride on the retro Pingxi branch railway line as an easy Taipei day trip
Good to know
SafetyAt Shifen Old Street, live, unfenced train tracks run straight through the village. Tourists absorbed in photos have been caught off guard by approaching trains — step off the tracks the instant you hear a warning and keep a firm hold on children.
SafetySpray from the falls makes the lower trail sections, stairs, and suspension bridges slippery. Wear proper non-slip footwear; the stair-and-bridge route is not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs.
CautionThere are reports of extra-fare fraud around Ruifang Station and touting by unlicensed, non-metered taxis that overcharge tourists. Use metered taxis or a ride app, tap your EasyCard through the proper gates, and ignore touts.
RulesSky lanterns may only be released in designated areas in Shifen; releasing them elsewhere can bring a fine. Prices are largely fixed (about NT$150 single-color, NT$200–250 multi-color), so don't expect discounts and confirm current rates on site.
SeasonJune–September brings frequent heavy rain, and typhoon season runs May–November (peaking July–October). Trails may be closed or hazardous during storms, so check the weather and opening status before you go.
Practical info
Free admission. Hours: winter (Oct–May) 9:00–17:00 (last entry 16:30), summer (Jun–Sep) 9:00–18:00 (last entry 17:30); closed on Lunar New Year's Eve — always confirm fees and hours before visiting. Getting there: from Taipei Main Station transfer at Ruifang to the Pingxi Line and alight at Shifen Station, then walk about 15–20 minutes. Pingxi Line trains run only every 60–90 minutes, so check timetables; early mornings mean fewer crowds and better rainbow odds.
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