Shifen Train Experience to Houtong Cat Village, Jiufen

If you’re dreaming of exploring some of Taiwan’s most captivating spots with a mix of natural beauty, quirky culture, and charming old streets, this Shifen Train Experience to Houtong Cat Village and Jiufen might be just what you need. While it’s not a self-guided adventure, this organized tour offers a well-rounded day out that balances scenic views, cultural insights, and adorable feline encounters—all for a reasonable price of around $35.36 per person.

What we find truly appealing about this trip is how it combines multiple highlights into one manageable day. You’ll get the chance to walk alongside a spectacular waterfall, experience a lively old street with a chance to release a traditional lantern, ride a local train, relax in a village known for its cats, and end the day in Jiufen’s atmospheric streets. It’s an excellent way to see diverse sides of Taiwan without spending hours navigating public transportation on your own.

However, a few considerations are worth noting. The Shifen Waterfall suspension bridge is temporarily closed for annual maintenance, so there’s an alternative route that might involve more walking than usual. Also, for those who prefer more flexibility or a private guide, this group tour offers limited customization. Finally, meals and lantern releases are excluded, so you’ll need to budget extra for food or lantern souvenirs.

This tour suits travelers who want to see multiple highlights efficiently, enjoy scenic train rides, and don’t mind a bit of walking or group travel. It’s perfect for those who appreciate seeing local life beyond typical tourist spots, and for anyone keen on capturing stunning scenery along Taiwan’s railways.

Key Points

• Combines natural sights, cultural experiences, and scenic train rides
• Offers good value with included transportation and guide
• Focuses on authentic local spots and beautiful views
• Slight inconvenience with suspension bridge maintenance
• Longer stops let you soak in the atmosphere and take photos
• Suitable for travelers with moderate fitness levels

The Itinerary in Detail

Shifen Waterfall: Nature’s Spectacle

The tour kicks off with a visit to Shifen Waterfall, often dubbed the “Little Niagara of Taiwan”. It’s a stunning cascade that spans approximately 20 meters wide, flowing down into a series of pools. The walk along the trail beside the waterfall is about 50 minutes, providing ample time to enjoy the roar of the water and snap photos.

While the suspension bridge over the waterfall is currently undergoing maintenance, the tour guides will take an alternative route, likely involving more walking or a different vantage point. This slight change may be a disappointment for waterfall photo enthusiasts but doesn’t detract from the overall natural spectacle.

The admission ticket for this stop is free, and the guided commentary helps you appreciate the geological and ecological significance of this impressive site. Whether you’re an avid nature lover or just in search of a beautiful backdrop, Shifen Waterfall offers a memorable start to your day.

Shifen Old Street: A Cultural Hub

Next, the group heads to Shifen Old Street—a bustling lane lined with shops, snack stalls, and vibrant storefronts. This area is a great place to soak in local culture and maybe try some street food or buy souvenirs.

One of the most iconic experiences here is releasing a Chinese lantern with a wish written on it—though this is an optional activity at 250 NT$ (not included in the tour price). Many travelers find this a magical moment, watching their hopes fly into the sky.

The guide will give about 50 minutes here, giving enough time to stroll, buy a snack, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere. This stop provides a charming glimpse into Taiwan’s tradition of celebrating festivals and wishing for good fortune.

The Scenic Ride from Shifen to Houtong

The highlight of the journey for many is the train ride from Shifen Station to Houtong Cat Village. It’s a short 20-minute trip, but it’s an authentic experience—riding a local train through Taiwan’s picturesque countryside, with views that are often perfect for photos.

The train ticket is included, and the experience offers a slice of everyday Taiwanese life aboard a traditional rail carriage. It’s a practical way to cover distance without the hassle of navigating public transport on your own, and it adds a sense of adventure to the day.

Houtong Cat Village: Feline Heaven

Once in Houtong, the tour spends about 1 hour and 30 minutes exploring Houtong Cat Village. Once a coal mining town, Houtong has reinvented itself as a haven for cat lovers. The streets are filled with cats lounging on windowsills, wandering alleyways, and cozy cafes.

This stop offers a relaxed pace, allowing you to observe the cats, take photos, and enjoy the laid-back vibe. Many visitors comment on how adorable and friendly the cats are—some even say it’s like stepping into a feline paradise.

As it’s a cat-friendly village, don’t be surprised if cats approach you for cuddles or a snack. It’s a delightful, if slightly quirky, experience that offers a wonderful contrast to more bustling tourist spots.

Jiufen Old Street: The Charming Closer

The day wraps up in Jiufen Old Street, renowned for its narrow stone-paved lanes, old teahouses, and stunning mountain-and-sea views. The 2-hour stop allows plenty of time to wander, sample local snacks, sip Taiwanese tea, and take in the scenery.

This area has a nostalgic feel, with shops selling traditional handicrafts, nostalgic snacks, and souvenirs. The views of the coastline and mountains make it a photographer’s paradise. Many visitors also find it a perfect place to relax in a traditional tea house, soaking in the atmosphere after a busy day of sightseeing.

The Practicalities: What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers good value for money considering the guided service, train tickets, and transportation. The price of $35.36 includes:

• Professional guide providing commentary and assistance
• Transportation throughout the day
• The Shifen-Houtong train ticket
• Basic insurance

However, keep in mind that meals and lantern releases are not included, so you might want to budget extra for lunch or a snack. The lantern release costs about 250 NT$, and local street food in Jiufen can be tempting and affordable.

The tour departs at 8:30 am from Taipei Main Station, a centrally located hub with easy access to public transit. It ends back at the same meeting point, making logistics straightforward. The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness since some walking and standing are involved, especially during the stops at waterfalls and old streets.

Analyzing the Value

At just over $35, this tour offers a fairly comprehensive experience that combines nature, culture, and local life. The inclusion of train travel, which is often overlooked by day-trippers, adds authenticity and a sense of adventure. The stops are well-chosen to prevent tourist fatigue, with enough time at each to enjoy without feeling rushed.

Most reviewers emphasize the stunning views from Jiufen and the relaxed vibe of Houtong as highlights. The fact that the tour is guided ensures you get contextual insights, which can be especially valuable in unfamiliar surroundings.

Some travelers mention that the group size (up to 40 people) keeps things lively but can mean a little less flexibility. Still, for the price, the convenience and coverage are impressive. Remember, this tour is ideal for those wanting a curated experience that hits major sights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers interested in seeing multiple icons of northern Taiwan within a single day, especially if you prefer some comfort and guided insights. It’s suitable for those who are okay with moderate walking and don’t mind group travel.

If you love scenic train journeys and want to see a quirky, friendly village full of cats, this tour covers those bases well. It’s also a good choice if your time in Taipei is limited but you want a diverse, authentic taste of Taiwan’s natural beauty and traditional culture.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this Shifen to Houtong and Jiufen tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and local life, backed by the convenience of guided transportation and insightful commentary. While the temporary suspension bridge closure might slightly alter the waterfall experience, it doesn’t diminish the overall appeal of the day.

For around $35, you’re getting a well-structured day that’s perfect for curious travelers eager to see Taiwan’s varied landscapes and quirkiest spots. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate authentic experiences, stunning views, and the simple joy of riding a train through Taiwan’s countryside.

If you’re after a day packed with memorable sights without the hassle of extensive planning or expensive private tours, this package offers excellent value and a chance to create lasting memories.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, transportation is included, covering all the stops along the route, including the Shifen-Houtong train ticket.

Can I release a lantern during this tour?
Lantern release is available as an optional activity at 250 NT$, but it is not included in the tour price.

How long do we spend at each stop?
You’ll have about 50 minutes at Shifen Waterfall, 50 minutes on Shifen Old Street, 20 minutes on the train, 1.5 hours in Houtong, and 2 hours in Jiufen.

Does the tour run rain or shine?
Yes, it operates in most weather conditions, but if the weather is poor, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled. You’ll be offered a full refund if canceled due to weather.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
As long as participants have moderate physical fitness and can handle some walking, the tour should suit most ages. The stops are mostly straightforward.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, water, a hat or umbrella if sunny or rainy, and extra cash if you want to release a lantern or purchase snacks.

This detailed exploration shows why this tour is a fantastic way to see Taiwan’s highlights in a day—relaxed, scenic, and full of authentic moments.