Taipei Popular Sightseeing Private Charter Jiufen, Shifen 8hr

Exploring Taipei’s Charm: A Private Tour to Jiufen and Shifen

If you’re searching for a straightforward way to see some of Taiwan’s most iconic sights outside of Taipei, this private 8-hour charter to Jiufen and Shifen offers a compelling option. With the convenience of a dedicated vehicle and a professional driver, you’ll be able to enjoy these popular destinations without the hassle of navigating public transport or dealing with large tour groups. The flexibility of choosing between a 5-seater or 9-seater means you can travel comfortably with your crew, whether it’s a family, friends, or a small group of travel buddies.

One feature we really appreciate about this tour is its customized private nature. You won’t be crowded with strangers, and the driver is there to assist and ensure your pace and interests are prioritized. However, it’s worth noting that lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to plan for some snacks or a meal during your stops. This tour suits travelers looking for a relaxed, flexible day that highlights the best of Jiufen’s old streets, the scenic Shifen Waterfall, and the thrill of releasing sky lanterns at Shifen Old Street.

Key Points

• Private and flexible: Enjoy the comfort of a private vehicle and a driver dedicated to your group.
• Scenic stops: Visit Jiufen Old Street, Shifen Waterfall, and Shifen Old Street, with the option to experience sky lantern release.
• Hassle-free transportation: No need to worry about public transit or navigating busy streets.
• Cost-effective for small groups: Up to four travelers, at $212.86, making it a good value for personalized service.
• Timing and schedule: Approximate 8-hour trip with clear time allocation for each stop.
• Comfortable options: Choose between a 5-seater or 9-seater car, depending on your group size.

An In-Depth Look at the Taipei Private Charter Experience

Ease and Comfort with Private Transport

One of the biggest perks of this tour is the private vehicle. It means you skip the crowded buses or trains, and your driver is there to make your journey smooth and relaxing. The vehicle is air-conditioned, which is a real plus in Taiwan’s warm climate, especially if you’re traveling in summer. Travelers have noted that the driver’s assistance is friendly and professional, making the experience more personable and less rushed.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour starts around midday with hotel pickup at 12:00 PM, which suits travelers who want a leisurely morning or need to settle in first. After about an hour’s drive, you’ll arrive at your first stop: Shifen Waterfall. Described as a “fairyland on earth,” this cascade is a highlight for nature lovers. It’s a relatively short visit—about 40 minutes—but enough to appreciate the sheer beauty of the area. The waterfall’s nickname, the Nicaragua Waterfall of Taiwan, hints at its spectacular and somewhat untouched appearance.

Following the waterfall, you’ll head to Shifen Old Street. This bustling street is famous for its tradition of sky lantern releases. While the experience fee (around TWD250 per lantern) isn’t included, most visitors find it worthwhile to participate. The act of writing wishes on lanterns and releasing them into the sky is both fun and symbolic, making for a memorable photo op. Multiple reviews mention the “sky lantern experience” as a must-do activity, even if it adds to the cost.

Visiting Jiufen — The Mountain Retreat

The highlight for many is Jiufen Old Street, a walkable maze of narrow alleyways lined with tea houses, souvenir shops, and food stalls. This area is packed with history and character, and you’ll have several hours (from 4 PM to 7 PM) to explore at your own pace. Many reviewers love Jiufen for its nostalgic vibe and stunning mountain views, especially as the sun sets and the old town lights up.

In Jiufen, you can indulge in local snacks, admire traditional architecture, or just soak in the atmosphere of this former gold mining town. It’s a place that feels like stepping back in time, with modern touches woven into its historic charm.

The Scenic Appeal of Shifen Waterfall

The last stop is Shifen Waterfall, which many describe as the “Nicaragua Waterfall of Taiwan.” The walk to the viewing platform is straightforward, and the views are photogenic. The waterfall’s cascades are framed by lush greenery, creating a picture-perfect scene. This stop is ideal for those wanting a quick nature fix before heading back to the city.

Drop-off and Flexibility

The tour wraps up with your driver returning you to your hotel around 8 PM, giving you a full day of sightseeing without feeling rushed. Because it’s a private charter, if you wish to adjust timing or skip a stop, you can discuss it with your driver—just a heads-up that the experience is non-refundable if canceled.

Value and Considerations

At $212.86 for up to four people, this tour offers a good deal, considering the private vehicle and personalized service. It’s especially appealing for small groups seeking a hassle-free day out. The cost of the sky lantern experience (~TWD250 per lantern) is extra, but most travelers find it a worthwhile souvenir and memory.

Keep in mind that lunch is not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to eat at Jiufen or Shifen. The tour’s timing is structured but flexible enough for you to enjoy each stop without feeling overly rushed, provided you manage your expectations about walking and sightseeing durations.

Who is it perfect for?

This experience suits travelers who value comfort, privacy, and flexibility. If you’re traveling with children under 4, note that child seats are available for TWD250 and need to be booked in advance. It’s also ideal if you prefer to avoid the crowds and want a more tailored experience with an English-speaking driver.

Final Thoughts

This private charter tour embodies the convenience and intimacy that many travelers crave when exploring Taiwan’s scenic spots outside Taipei. It gives you control over your day, minimizes stress, and offers a comfortable way to see Jiufen’s old streets, the stunning Shifen Waterfall, and participate in the charming sky lantern tradition.

While not including meals and with some costs extra (like lantern release), the overall value lies in the ease of transportation and personalized experience. It’s well-suited for small groups who want a relaxed day with a taste of local culture and natural beauty, without the chaos of large tour groups.

For those wanting a straightforward, flexible, and comfortable way to enjoy these iconic Taiwanese destinations, this private tour hits all the right notes. Just remember to bring your camera, some cash for extras, and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, you’ll travel in an air-conditioned private vehicle, picked up from your hotel and dropped back off at the end of the day.

Can I choose the vehicle size?
Yes, you can select between a 5-seater or a 9-seater car depending on your group size and luggage needs.

Are we able to customize the stops or timings?
The tour is structured to last about 8 hours, but since it’s private, you can discuss timing adjustments with your driver, within the set schedule.

Is food included during the tour?
No, meals are not included, so plan to eat beforehand or bring snacks. You might find options at Jiufen and Shifen.

How much does the sky lantern experience cost?
The lantern release costs approximately TWD250 per lantern, and this fee is paid directly at Shifen Old Street.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, along with some cash for lanterns, snacks, or souvenirs. Bring a camera, sunscreen, and water.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but if you need a child seat for under 4-year-olds, it’s an extra TWD250 and must be arranged in advance.

What is the cancellation policy?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so plan accordingly.

Choosing this private Taipei sightseeing tour means opting for a hassle-free, comfortable exploration of some of Taiwan’s most photogenic spots. Perfect for small groups or families, it balances structured sightseeing with enough flexibility to enjoy each location at your own pace.