Exploring the streets of Jiufen

Warm red lanterns fill the streets of Jiufen, such a small beautiful old mountain town east of Taipei in northeastern Taiwan. 

Even though it’s November, the weather is pleasant, warm, and humid, with a little light drizzle. People from all over the world travel to New Taipei City’s bustling Ruifang District, a favorite attraction among foreigners traveling to Taiwan, popular for the area’s traditional charm.

In the days of gold mining, the village was estimated to have nine households. The term “Jiufen” comes from the fact that supplies were split up into nine “jiu” portions “fen” when they arrived.

During Thanksgiving break, I went to Jiufen, and although it was raining almost every day, it was a really lovely place that is well worth visiting. Many people think that the scenery in Jiufen and the Japanese movie Spirited Away are fairly similar, even though there is no direct correlation between the two. 

The broad views were simply breathtaking, with no end to the hazy mountains from the lookout platform. It felt like a natural paradise with the fresh natural smell of the cold mountain air.

Jiufen’s food is a highlight that is definitely worth checking out, beginning with the delicious candied fruit skewers known as tanghulu. As I walked through the wet, busy streets, the sugar-coated strawberries were my favorite sweet treat. I also enjoyed warm, fluffy egg waffles with cream and strawberries on top, a mouthwatering dessert that was impossible to resist. Trying out new foods such as an assorted variety of fish balls which were interesting.

With many small shops to look around filled with souvenirs, antiques, and lots of food to try, through crowded tiny alleyways and many rocky stairs, it is a true once in a lifetime experience.

Nightfall made Jiufen even more alluring. Warm light from lanterns surrounded the winding streets, adding to the enchanted atmosphere. The town, which had been so lively during the day, now seemed calm and timeless.

The bus ride to Jiufen took an hour, but the trip is definitely worth it. It is a place that lingers in your memory long after you have left because of the amazing scenery, mouthwatering cuisine, and lantern-lit streets.