After basking in the bustling energy of Taipei, a day trip to Jiufen offers a delightful change of pace and transports you to a picturesque mountain village steeped in both history and charm. Often described as the inspiration for the bathhouse in Studio Ghibli’s “Spirited Away” (though Hayao Miyazaki has explicitly stated that this is not the case, the resemblance is undeniable), Jiufen captivates visitors with its narrow alleyways, traditional teahouses, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Getting there from Taipei is straightforward, with several convenient options to choose from to best suit your travel style.
Option 1: The Express Bus – Direct and Convenient
For ease and efficiency, you might find taking the bus to be the best choice.
- Catching the Bus: Head to MRT Zhongxiao Fuxing Station (忠孝復興). There is a bus stop directly outside of Exit 2.
- Bus Route: Board Keelung Bus (基隆客運) Route 1062 bound for Jiufen (金瓜石). The bus stop should have signs indicating either “Jiufen” or “Jinguashi.”
- Journey Time: The ride typically takes between 60-90 minutes, though this is obviously dependent on traffic.
- Cost: Approximately NT $100 (or $3.27 USD). Both cash and EasyCard are accepted, and you can purchase an EasyCard at any convenience store.
- Frequency: The buses are frequent and usually depart every 15-30 minutes during peak hours.
- Getting Off: The bus will drop you off right at the main entrance to Jiufen Old Street (九份老街).
This is a fantastic option for solo travelers or those who prefer a direct route without the higher cost of a private transfer. I took this bus on my return trip to Taipei after spending the night in Jiufen, and it was quite easy to hop on the bus as the stop was just outside of my hotel (Daybreak Jiufen).
Option 2: Train + Bus – A Scenic Journey
If you want to enjoy the scenery a bit more and don’t mind a transfer, combining a train and a local bus is a nice alternative.
- Train to Ruifang: From Taipei Main Station (台北車站), take a local or express train on the Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) line to Ruifang Station (瑞芳車站). This journey typically about 35-50 minutes, depending on the train type.
- Cost: Approximately NT $50-80 ($1.63-$2.62 USD).
- From Ruifang Station: Upon exiting Ruifang Station, turn left and walk about 100 meters to the bus stop in front of the police station.
- Bus to Jiufen: From this bus stop, you can choose one of several local buses to get to Jiufen Old Street: Bus 1062, 788, or 827. The ride up to Jiufen from here is roughly 15-20 minutes.
- Cost: Approximately NT $15-25 ($0.49-0.82 USD).
This option allows for a charming train ride through the Taiwanese countryside before completing the journey into the mountains.
Option 3: Taxi or Ride-Share – The Most Convenient, Most Expensive
For ultimate convenience, a taxi or ride-share service (like Uber or a local equivalent) is an option. I personally took a taxi on the way to Jiufen before switching to taking the express bus on the way back to Taipei the following day, and I feel as though this was a great option.
- Direct from Taipei: A direct taxi or Uber from central Taipei to Jiufen should take roughly 45-60 minutes.
- Cost: Expect to pay upwards of NT$1000-1500 ($32.70-49.05 USD) for a one-way trip. I took an Uber on a weekday and paid $36 USD for the ride.
- Pros: Door-to-door service, faster, and a good option for those worried about figuring out public transportation or for groups to split the cost.
- Cons: Significantly more expensive than public transport.
What to Expect in Jiufen
Once you arrive, prepare to be enchanted by Jiufen Old Street as it is made up of picturesque narrow paths that are packed with food stalls selling traditional Taiwanese snacks, artisan shops, and most famously, atmospheric teahouses. Make sure to visit the iconic A-Mei Teahouse, which is particularly stunning with its red lanterns lit at dusk.
Pro-Tip: Jiufen is quite popular and can get very crowded, particularly on weekends and public holidays. For a more serene experience, I would suggest visiting on a weekday or spending at least one night there so you can experience it without the crowds after the last buses leave for the day and early the following morning before the first groups arrive.
Whether you choose the direct bus, a scenic train ride, or the comfort of a taxi, a visit to Jiufen is an absolute must-do on your next trip to Taiwan.
