The 47 best walking spots in New Taipei (2024)

shi fen old street is an old rail way station, can find some food and shops here, may get your souvenir here as well

It's very touristy, but it's definitely a unique location. You can walk right along the tracks, freely crossing back and forth, browsing the stores and enjoying the different yummy snacks, watching people release lanterns on the tracks and contending with the calls of promoters wanting you to do the same. It's fun when the trains come by, too, every hour or so. I don't regret coming here.

I first saw this place on an advertisem*nt, and decided to visit it by myself. I was not disappointed. The experience is really unique.The street is really small and can be packed during peak hours. The parking areas are spacious but you do need to walk some distance to get to the street. If you take the train, the route is a bit complicated and time consuming, but the view you can see during your journey is worth the time.After you’ve arrived, the sole activity here is the lantern. It costs NT$250 for me (4 colours) and I get to keep a polaroid photo of me releasing the lamp, or an extra NT$30 for each additional polaroid picture. They also have some souvenir stores and some snacks to purchase (I love the chicken stand right outside the train station’s entrance/exit), but other than that, nothing else.There is a beautiful waterfall nearby, and it’s not that difficult to go as well, although you have to go by foot. There is also an old bridge with amazing view nearby, but beware if you’re afraid of heights.I heard from locals that many people dislike the place and the activity because it’s not exactly environmental friendly. I haven’t researched much about this, but if you are someone who is concern and believe in this topic, research first before your visit.

See plastic/paper lanterns float up the sky. Some get blown into the mountains some land back to the area if there's no wind.Not sure what's so fun about it other than superstitious.Train goes through the street and that's part of the fun.A few eateries offer a rest from all the madness.

It's very lively town where every minute you can see sky lantern launching. Also there's plenty of stores in the area. We choose to eat at a local eatery and it was good. If you decided to launch a sky lantern, you'll be writing messages on all the 4 side of the lantern. Someone from the store whom you bought the lantern will assist you and will take your pictures with different poses. We kinda enjoy how they took our picture.

Sky lantern and the old railway is the best part of this place. Remind me of childhood times, must visit if you are in Taiwan.

If you are wondering if this is the place for sky lantern release...Yes! Cost is around 150 for single color and 200 for four colors and the shop owners will usually help to snap still shots and videos of the lantern release! Also, the Shifen waterfall is about half an hour walk from here...so be prepared to have an umbrella at least to shield u from the scorching sun during the walk down..it's worth it..

The old town is full of Chinese style, the roads are surrounded by mountains and hills, and you can move the train directly to the old town. The food is diverse and there are many interesting things waiting for you to discover, release the sky lanterns, go for a walk, and check in... It is said that this place is allowed to release sky lanterns because of its special position that can control the flight of the lights. and collect them after they fall.

Nothing to see. All tourist. The street is very short too. Not much shops there. The only thing you can do here is to fly a lantern. Or walk 30 minutes to see the waterfall nearby, which is literally nothing too. Not say it’s not nice, but there are other better waterfalls or streets you could have visited. Don’t waste your time here.

Two ways that I would sum this place up i.e. (1) lantern and (2) railway crossing.This is the only place in Taipei that one is allowed to put off the traditional lantern. One is recommended to write their wishes on the lantern (with ink and paintbrush provided by the shop that sold you the lantern) before it is lit up and released. An advise, do not settle for the lantern sold once you arrive. Walk further in either to the left of right side of the railway tracks and prices will be cheaper for the same thing.On the railway tracks, it pretty much runs parallel to the shops. When the train is arriving, the shop owners will help caution and clear the tracks. It is as close as one gets to a moving trains.All in, it was a good experience.

Cute little downtown area with the train running through the center. Loads of great street food.The peanut ice cream crepe is worth the trip alone! Get it with parsley, yes parsley. Somehow the ice cream, peanuts,parsley and crepe work 😋 all for $50NT

The Sky Lantern process is impressive and enchanting. I was mesmerized by the skill and expertise surrounding the affair. We went during the pouring rain, which did not put a damper on the occasion. I did not find a moment where I did not want to photograph the fantastic things happening around me. I recommend going and would go so far as to say a trip to Taiwan is incomplete without visiting Shifen.

It’s very crowded but fun and worth it. There were several shops offering the sky lantern so the wait is not too long. There were also lots of food stalls for quick bites. Toilets are available in the selected shops. The train passes through this area which is makes it exciting. Good experience

Must see to light and send up your wishes. This place was so remote a long time ago this was a way to let others know they needed help. Now a tourist trap, but fun. Just down the road is the waterfall too. I like the suspension bridges. Watch out for the train and is another way to this place since driving and parking are hard. Try to get a driver, taxi, for the day.

Cool place with a meaningful tradition that reminds of the past.We went on a Tuesday afternoon with a Klook tour. It was crowded but not to the extend that you needed to wait long for anything.I think it would be also very nice in the evening as the lantern and the lights would be onWe didn’t go for a lantern thing because we thing it is not environmentally good. However we like the town and the vibes there.But somehow the beautiful place got turned into a tourist exploitation area with the narrative to propose their wishes. Shops seem to have just commercialized souvenirs.Regarding the food, I would recommend to get any food in Taiwan somewhere else as it is most likely cheaper and better tasting.

We were amazed by how such a small street has such economy. Nearly every other shop sells the sky lantern. I suppose everyone is here for this reason. Write your wish on your lantern and have it released to the air.Per color lantern cost about NT$300.The peanut ice cream is very nice.No ticket is required to enter Shi Fen.

Shifen Old Street is a charming ancient village renowned for its sky lantern releasing tradition, a distinctive part of the local culture in Taiwan. This is a place where visitors can engage in this meaningful activity, sending their wishes up to the sky with paper lanterns.The lanterns here are available in various colors, each symbolizing different meanings: pink for love, green for peace, among others. Visitors can choose either single-color or multi-color lanterns to match their wishes and emotions.A unique feature of Shifen Old Street is the railway that runs through the village, where people often stand on the tracks to release their lanterns. The sight of sky lanterns ascending into the night sky creates a magical and memorable spectacle. Participating in this activity is not only a rich cultural experience but also fosters a sense of connection and hope among visitors.

With my family in Taiwan, decided to do a tourist visit. Really worth the 1 hour drive from the hotel to explore this place. Really colourful and happy place. Lots of lanterns with messages, prayers and hopes for the future being written on by families.I love my picture of the young boy in the front of the train plus the Wonderful Steve the long haired dachshund. Who never left my side.Great way to spend a couple of hours and experience this tucked away gem.Fire crackers were awesome

Very good place for lantern festival.Plenty of gift shops available. Many food stalls is there.Change train from Ruifang when you're going there from Taipei.Beautiful people

Located in Pingxi District New Taipei City... Not that far from Taipei itself but the road condition a bit challenging for some people. Famous of flying lantern on day light and its Railroad tracks. Culture streets that suitable to visit by tourist where you may enjoy not only some souvenirs shopping also DIY programs.... Flying lantern. This is over of To do list for me when you are visiting Taiwan. The place is so cultural and very beautiful with oriental decorations. Beautiful waterfalls and river across the area give you fresh air and amazing ambiance. Get proper guide to be here and you will know its worth to visit this place

Great place to release the hot air lanterns that carry your best wishes for health, wealth and happiness up into the sky. I hear there are special teams that hunt down these lanterns after the fuel burns out and they land somewhere. More eco friendly but not a lot of fun compared with us launching the lanterns.

There are lots of shops selling lanterns and food by the side of the railway. The train doesn't seem to operate here as there were lots of people on the railroad. Lanterns cost around 200 NTD and you can whatever you want to write for 4 sides (good to have 4 friends) before they assemble the sheets for you before you fly it. The lanterns are made of plastic. I am not sure about how they retrieve the fallen down lanterns from the nature, looks environmentally unfriendly but was a good experience. The area has less food options compared to other Old Streets. This is mainly for lanterns, souvenirs and photographing.

An absolutely spectacular place. A must visit for all Taiwan visitors. Some food stands and gift shops. But the most spectacular is the train tracks that cross the main street and seeing the train go by.

Old railroad line surrounded by food stalls and lantern shops. People buy and write on their lanterns then light them up on the railroad. Quite interesting for the 1st visit, not so much for 2nd visit.There is a train station at the end and also a suspension bridge. Nothing amazing but everything is well kept.

Not really a fan of the sky lantern release activity — too much of a fire hazard from my point of view. Having said so, that’s literally the only activity to do in town as a tourist, so I’d consider avoiding it if you’re not into it. Shops sell the same souvenirs all over and that’s about it. I’d say it was the least enjoyable activity of the day trip

Nice location to spend some time. You can make your own wish balloon. You can buy them and paint them with your own wishes and happiness. The street is also nice for some tourist shopping. You can buy nice souvenirs. From the city you can walk in 25 minutes to the waterval. Also very nice to see. Enjoy the peace and quiet and see lots of birds and flowers. There are some hikes on the path. So you can also make it a longer trip if you want. We did an 1 hour trail. The birds (see my image) are also nice to spot. So just go there and enjoy the trip! It is very nice trail and location ☺️Next time I will go a bit longer. And maybe visit the sea side as well. That must be nice as well!!!

Nice little village to visit by train during the day. The best thing I feel like this town is know for is their lanterns. Everyone seems to be purchasing paper lanterns, writing messages on them, and sending them into the sky. Everyone also tends to hang on the tracks that trains drive by on so they’re always cleaning it out as the train comes.

This was a great place to do the lanterns and try some local food. We tried a boneless BBQ chicken wing stuffed with rice (very good), ice cream wrapped in a thin crepe with candied peanuts and cilantro (mind blowing), BBQ pork sausage (very good). We came here while on a tour. We also got to see the train come by. Definitely worth a visit just for the lantern experience.

Cool spot but it's going to be busy. We even went on a weekday. You do get to see some old homes and a really cool suspension bridge. Yes it is a little tourist trappy but it is what it is. They rely on tourism for a living. Enjoy

One of the most iconic features of this old street is the railway tracks that run directly through it. You can walk along the tracks, taking photos and enjoying the unique setting. Periodically, a train will pass through, and it’s fascinating to watch how the street comes alive with activity as people clear the tracks.You can also partake in the traditional sky lantern experience by purchasing one from various vendors along the old street. Each lantern typically comes with multiple sides for writing messages. Once the messages are written, the lantern is lit at the base and released into the sky at designated areas.Evenings are the best time to experience the sky lanterns, as the sight of lanterns illuminating the night sky is particularly stunning.

Awesome place and amazing experienced to visit Shifen Old Street!!Though my sister and my nephew did not fly a sky lantern, but we enjoyed watching people that made wishes and flew sky lanterns🙏👍It is one of the best highlights to visit after visiting Shifen waterfalls.One of the best tourist attractions in Taipei, Taiwan 🇹🇼A lot of people it's normal because one of the popular destinations for tourist in Taiwan.A must to visit.🤩

This was definitely a fun activity. Stores here make a lot of money out of people flying lanterns wishing for wishes.There is a train track that comes every once in a while. When the train is not there people fly lanterns from many many stores and the colours represent different wishes.There are other shops that sell snacks and food.

Shifen Old Street is a magical destination that captures the essence of Taiwan's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Nestled along the railway tracks, this charming street offers a unique and nostalgic experience, with the sound of trains adding to its quaint charm. The main attraction is the sky lantern tradition, where visitors can write their wishes on colorful lanterns and release them into the sky—a truly enchanting sight, especially at night. The street is lined with shops and stalls selling a variety of local snacks, souvenirs, and handmade crafts, making it a delightful place to explore and immerse yourself in Taiwanese culture.Beyond the lanterns, Shifen Old Street is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, including the famous Shifen Waterfall. A short hike from the main street leads you to this breathtaking cascade, often referred to as the "Little Niagara of Taiwan." The combination of cultural experiences and natural beauty makes Shifen Old Street a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Taiwan. Whether you're there to participate in the sky lantern tradition, enjoy delicious local food, or simply take in the picturesque landscapes, Shifen Old Street promises an unforgettable and heartwarming experience.

I guess I can’t call it overrated since I hadn’t heard that much great stuff about it. The train is definitely the highlight, both riding through the mountains and watching it through the old street. If you’re really really set on doing the lantern thing this might be worth it. Otherwise, skip it and go to Jiufen or something.

This place is very cool. Fireworks can be bought along the train tracks and you can set off at the bridge. Make sure you go early to paint your lantern as the area closes up early. Last train is after 8pm, so I suggest your there by 6pm latest time to enjoy the area

Wonderful street with the trains, food and spirit lanterns. Worth the day trip from Taipei to experience this beautiful and unique old town.

Took a train here and back from Ruifang station, do check the train timings to plan your trip. Standard things to do are to release the lantern into the sky and walk to the waterfalls. There’s nice food stalls along the track as well

Love this place. Quite an experience and a fun family activity. Releasing the lanterns from the train track and of course watching the trains go by just next to the narrow streets. It was after that it hits you that perhaps launching the lanterns into the forest isn’t the most environmentally friendly thing to do.

Lots of places for food on both sides of the railway track. The line is active please listen to the horn whens trains are running. Lots of shops to buy and linch the Lanterns, prices are the same everywhere, best to get from the first few shops as it’s less busy. Good way all the way to the old bridge leading to the old town.

A bit crowded. But a great fun spot to spend time with family. We also bought a lantern and sent it to the sky’s with our dreams🏮later and a walk around and ate some good food too. Go early to beat the crowd.

A charming escape with sky lanterns! Shifen Old Street is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Taipei. The unique atmosphere of the old street with the train tracks running through it is unlike anything I've ever seen before. The highlight, of course, is releasing sky lanterns, which is a magical experience. I also enjoyed browsing the shops and trying the local food. Overall, a delightful and memorable experience!

Beautiful place. Lanterns release was a great experience. You could see happy faces everywhere as they wrote their dreams on the lanterns. The downside was you could see the fallen lanterns on the ground everywhere, even on the hills around😖😖

This is an interesting and exciting attraction to see and experience. Here, you can buy and set your own lanterns into the sky. Unfortunately, we saw many lanterns falling into the mountains and water, which means it isn't environmentally friendly at all. But never the less it is an attraction to see the different street foods, souvenir shops, and more. The chicken stuffed with rice is a must try there. Also, the taiwanese ice cream with peanuts wrap. If you are lucky, there's an active train that goes their the area. This doesn't require a ticket to enter the area. We went with a tour which included the area.

Was brought here by our driver after visiting the shifen waterfall as it is very near.Our driver recommended us to check out the hot air lantern and I'm so glad he did. It was a gorgeous sight seeing the lanterns fly up.The old street is lined along the side of a railway track. There are shops selling the hot air lantern where you can write your wishes on and the staff will assist you in photo/video taking and lighting it up to fly. There are also food stalls and souvenir shops.You can light your lantern on the railway track when the train is not using it. And once the train is ready to move everyone runs up onto the street and watches the train pass by in their face.Would recommend to check this place out for the experience and fun of it