Are you planning a trip to Taiwan and looking for some coastal activities to include in your travel itinerary? Look no further than Jiufen by the sea! This charming town is located on the northeast coast of Taiwan and offers a wide range of activities for travelers of all ages.
Take a scenic walk along the Keelung River, visit Fulong Beach for some sun and sand, or explore the hiking trails for a breathtaking view of the ocean.
Jiufen also boasts an array of old streets and tea houses for you to discover, as well as an annual lantern festival and the historic Shengping Theater.
And if you’re looking to venture out, Jiufen is just a short day trip away from the bustling city of Keelung.
So pack your bags and get ready for a coastal adventure in Jiufen!
Key Takeaways
- Jiufen is a charming town on the northeast coast of Taiwan, just a short day trip away from the bustling city of Keelung.
- The coastal environment of Jiufen offers stunning views, unique flora and fauna, and a soothing sound of waves crashing against the shore, making it a perfect destination for a coastal adventure.
- Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities in Jiufen, including hiking, sunbathing, water activities, exploring old streets, tea culture, lantern-making workshops, and more.
- Jiufen is known for its natural hot springs with healing properties, and visitors can choose from several hot springs to relax and unwind in.
Take a Scenic Walk Along the Keelung River
Don’t miss out on the chance to stroll along the picturesque Keelung River, immersing yourself in the stunning natural surroundings and taking in all the beauty of Jiufen by the sea.
The Keelung River is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, as it offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The river is surrounded by lush greenery, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.
As you walk along the river, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the sea and the nearby mountains. You can also stop at one of the many cafes or restaurants that line the riverbank and enjoy a cup of coffee or a delicious meal.
The Keelung River is a must-see attraction in Jiufen, offering a serene and beautiful escape from the city’s busy streets. So don’t forget to add it to your travel itinerary!
Visit Fulong Beach
You’ll love lounging on the golden sands and taking a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of Fulong Beach. This stunning beach is located just a short distance from Jiufen and is a perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
The beach stretches for over three kilometers, so there’s plenty of space for you to relax and soak up the sun. But Fulong Beach isn’t just for lounging around. There are plenty of activities to keep you entertained, including beach volleyball, surfing, and windsurfing.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even take a ride on the banana boats or try your hand at kiteboarding. And if you’re traveling with kids, they’ll love playing in the sand and splashing around in the shallow waters.
So don’t miss out on this beautiful coastal destination!
Explore the Hiking Trails
To fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area, take some time to explore the many hiking trails available to you. Jiufen is surrounded by lush green mountains that offer breathtaking views of the sea and the town below. The hiking trails range from easy to challenging, so there’s something for every skill level.
Here’s a table of some of the most popular hiking trails in Jiufen:
| Trail Name | Difficulty | Distance | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Keelung Mountain Trail | Challenging | 7.5 km | 5-6 hours |
| Jinguashi Gold Mine Trail | Moderate | 2.5 km | 2 hours |
| Teapot Mountain Trail | Moderate | 5 km | 3-4 hours |
| Shengping Trail | Easy | 3 km | 2 hours |
Each trail offers its own unique scenery and experience. The Keelung Mountain Trail is the most challenging but also the most rewarding, with panoramic views of the coastline and the mountain range. The Jinguashi Gold Mine Trail takes you through historic gold mines and tunnels, while the Teapot Mountain Trail offers stunning views of the ocean and unique rock formations. The Shengping Trail is the easiest and best for beginners, with a tranquil forest setting and beautiful waterfalls. No matter which trail you choose, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views and a memorable experience.
Discover the Old Streets and Tea Houses
If you’re looking for a unique cultural experience, exploring the old streets and tea houses in Jiufen is a must. Jiufen’s old streets are a maze of narrow alleys and stairways, lined with traditional red lanterns, souvenir shops, and food stalls. As you wander through the streets, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time to Taiwan’s Japanese colonial era.
One of the highlights of the old streets is the tea houses, which offer a glimpse into the traditional tea culture of Taiwan. Here are some of the top tea houses to check out:
- A-Mei Tea House: This is one of the oldest tea houses in Jiufen, and it’s known for its stunning views of the ocean and mountains.
- Jiufen Teahouse: This teahouse is located in an old Japanese-style house and offers a variety of teas and snacks.
- Ruifang Tea House: This tea house is located in a historic building and offers a range of teas, including some rare and expensive varieties.
- Songde Tea House: This tea house has been around for over a century and is known for its traditional tea ceremonies.
Exploring the old streets and tea houses in Jiufen is a great way to immerse yourself in Taiwan’s rich cultural heritage. Don’t forget to try some of the local tea and snacks while you’re there!
Attend the Annual Lantern Festival
You’re in for an unforgettable experience when you attend Jiufen’s Annual Lantern Festival. Immerse yourself in the town’s vibrant culture and witness the lanterns light up the night sky in a spectacular display of color.
From the intricate designs to the lively atmosphere, you’ll be sure to leave with memories that will last a lifetime.
Experience the Town’s Vibrant Culture
Immerse yourself in Jiufen’s vibrant culture by exploring the bustling streets filled with colorful lanterns and traditional shops. Take a stroll along Jiufen Old Street and get lost in the maze of narrow alleys lined with quaint teahouses, souvenir shops, and street food vendors. Be sure to try some of the local delicacies such as taro balls, peanut ice cream rolls, and fish balls.
Aside from the food and shopping, Jiufen is also known for its rich history and cultural heritage. Visit the Jiufen Museum of Gold, which showcases the town’s gold mining history, or the A-Mei Tea House, which was the inspiration behind the famous animated film ‘Spirited Away’. You can also watch a traditional puppet show at the Pingshi Puppet Theater or join a lantern-making workshop to learn more about the art of lantern crafting.
With so many cultural experiences to choose from, Jiufen is truly a destination that’ll leave you feeling enriched and inspired.
See the Lanterns Light Up the Night Sky
Get ready to witness a breathtaking sight as the lanterns light up the night sky in a mesmerizing display. This is a must-see event when visiting Jiufen by the sea.
The town is known for its colorful and ornate lanterns that are displayed during festivals and special occasions. You can witness the beauty of these lanterns during the annual lantern festival, where the town is illuminated with thousands of lanterns of various shapes and sizes.
As you walk through the streets, you’ll see lanterns hanging from buildings, street poles, and even trees. The vibrant colors and intricate designs make for a stunning display that is sure to leave you in awe.
In addition to the lanterns, there are also performances and activities that take place during the festival, making it a truly unforgettable experience. Be sure to add the lantern festival to your itinerary when visiting Jiufen by the sea.
Visit the Shengping Theater
If you’re looking for a unique cultural experience, don’t miss out on visiting the Shengping Theater in Jiufen. This theater is a historical landmark that has been around for over a century. It was originally built in 1904 during the Japanese occupation of Taiwan and was used to entertain Japanese soldiers.
Today, the theater is still used for performances and has become a popular tourist attraction. The Shengping Theater is known for its traditional Chinese architecture and intricate designs. The interior is just as stunning, with red velvet seats and ornate decorations.
When you attend a performance at the theater, you’ll be transported back in time to a different era. You can watch traditional Chinese opera, which is a unique and fascinating experience. The performers wear elaborate costumes and makeup, and the music is played on traditional instruments.
Visiting the Shengping Theater is a must-do activity for anyone who wants to learn more about Chinese culture and history.
Take a Day Trip to Keelung
Looking for a fun day trip? Why not head to Keelung and explore all that this charming city has to offer!
Located just a short distance from Jiufen, Keelung boasts a beautiful coastline and plenty of activities to keep you entertained.
One of the must-see attractions in Keelung is the Miaokou Night Market. Sample a wide variety of street food, from oyster omelets to stinky tofu, and immerse yourself in the local culture.
After filling up on delicious bites, take a stroll along the picturesque harbor and enjoy the sea breeze.
History buffs will also appreciate the nearby Baimiwong Fort, a military installation built by the British in the late 1800s.
With its stunning views of the ocean and surrounding mountains, a day trip to Keelung is not to be missed!
Relax and Unwind in a Hot Spring
Looking to relax and unwind during your trip to Taiwan? Why not take a dip in one of the many hot springs the country has to offer?
Soak in the mineral-rich waters and let your worries melt away as you enjoy the peaceful surroundings. With numerous hot springs located throughout the country, you’re sure to find one that fits your travel itinerary.
Soak in the Mineral-Rich Waters
You can’t miss out on soaking in the mineral-rich waters while exploring Jiufen by the sea. The town is known for its natural hot springs, which are believed to have healing properties due to their high mineral content. These hot springs are the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate after a day of exploring the town and its surrounding areas.
To help you plan your visit to the hot springs, here’s a table of some of the best ones to check out:
| Hot Spring | Location | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Jiufen Jinshan Hot Spring | Jinshan District, New Taipei City | Private rooms with mountain views |
| Wulai Hot Spring | Wulai District, New Taipei City | Outdoor public hot springs with river views |
| Beitou Hot Spring | Beitou District, Taipei City | Public and private hot springs with modern facilities |
Take your pick from this list and enjoy the soothing waters of Jiufen’s hot springs. Don’t forget to bring your bathing suit and a towel for a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Enjoy the Peaceful Surroundings
Now that you’ve had a relaxing dip in the mineral-rich waters, it’s time to enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Jiufen by the sea. Take a deep breath and let the salty air fill your lungs as you take in the stunning views of the coastline.
The sound of the waves crashing against the shore is a soothing melody that will calm your mind and rejuvenate your soul. If you’re looking for a more active way to enjoy the peaceful surroundings, take a stroll along the coastal path.
The path winds along the coastline and offers breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding mountains. You can stop along the way to take pictures or simply sit and soak in the beauty of your surroundings. As you walk, you’ll notice the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this coastal environment.
Keep an eye out for seabirds, crabs, and other marine creatures that call this area home. Whether you choose to walk or sit and take in the views, the peaceful surroundings of Jiufen by the sea are sure to leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any restrictions or regulations for attending the Annual Lantern Festival?
There usually aren’t any restrictions or regulations for attending the annual lantern festival, but it’s best to check with local authorities or event organizers for guidelines.
It’s important to respect cultural traditions and follow safety guidelines when participating in the festival.
Keep in mind that there may be large crowds, so be prepared for potential traffic and limited parking.
Overall, the lantern festival is a beautiful and unique experience that shouldn’t be missed if you have the chance to attend.
What are some of the best seafood restaurants to try in Jiufen by the Sea?
If you’re looking for the best seafood restaurants to try in Jiufen by the sea, you’re in luck. There are plenty of options to choose from, with many offering fresh catches straight from the ocean.
One popular spot is Ah Mei Tea House, which serves up a variety of seafood dishes including grilled squid and sashimi. Another great option is the Jiufen Jingtong Seafood Restaurant, which is known for its seafood hotpot and steamed fish.
No matter where you go, you’re sure to find delicious and authentic seafood in Jiufen by the sea.
Can you rent equipment for water sports activities at Fulong Beach?
Yes, you can rent equipment for water sports activities at Fulong Beach. The beach offers a variety of equipment for rent, including surfboards, paddleboards, and kayaks.
You can also take a banana boat ride or go parasailing. The rental prices are reasonable, and the staff are friendly and helpful.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced water sports enthusiast, Fulong Beach has something for everyone. So don’t hesitate to visit and enjoy the thrilling water sports activities on offer.
What is the best time of year to visit Jiufen by the Sea for hiking?
The best time of year to visit Jiufen by the sea for hiking is during the fall season, from September to November.
During this time, the weather is cooler and more pleasant, making it easier to explore the trails without feeling too hot or too cold. Additionally, the fall season offers stunning views of the changing foliage, which adds to the overall hiking experience.
It’s important to note that hiking in Jiufen can be challenging, so it’s recommended to plan accordingly and bring appropriate gear and supplies.
Overall, the fall season is the ideal time to explore the natural beauty of Jiufen by the sea through hiking.
Are there any cultural events or festivals that take place in Jiufen by the Sea besides the Annual Lantern Festival?
There are actually several cultural events and festivals that take place in Jiufen by the Sea throughout the year.
In addition to the annual lantern festival, which is a major attraction, there is also the Jiufen Music Festival in the summer. This event features a variety of musical performances and cultural events.
There is also a traditional market that takes place on weekends. Here, you can sample local food and purchase handicrafts and souvenirs.
Additionally, there are several temples in the area that host festivals and processions throughout the year. These events offer a unique glimpse into Taiwanese culture and traditions.
Conclusion
So, there you have it! A jam-packed itinerary for your coastal adventure in Jiufen.
From scenic walks to beach trips, hiking trails to tea houses, lantern festivals to hot springs, there’s something for everyone in this charming town.
Don’t forget to take a day trip to Keelung and visit the Shengping Theater for a taste of culture.
And if you’re looking to unwind, head to a nearby hot spring and let the warm waters soothe your tired muscles.
With all of these activities, you’re sure to have an unforgettable trip to Jiufen by the sea. Happy travels!
