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Shifen
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Landmark
Shifen is the most animated stop on the Pingxi Railway Line, globally renowned for the Shifen Waterfall, often called the 'Little Niagara of Taiwan'. This broad, horseshoe-shaped cascade is a magnificent natural spectacle. Another unique draw is Shifen Old Street, where the railway tracks cut directly through rows of shops and cafes; visitors must step off the tracks whenever a train approaches. This is the most popular spot to release sky lanterns right from the rail line. The area is also home to scenic suspension bridges like the Jingan Bridge, offering great views of the river and railway. Foodies should try the 'stuffed chicken wings' with rice, a famous local snack. Shifen captures the coal-mining heritage of the past while buzzing with modern tourist energy. Reachable by local train from Ruifang station, it is a year-round destination, though weekdays are recommended to avoid the heaviest crowds.
- Location: Taiwan
- Top sights: Bianfushan · Dazhulinshan · viewpoint towards Hegu waterfall
- Nearby: Keelung (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 17 | 18 | 19 | 22 | 25 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 24 | 22 | 19 |
| Rain mm | 99 | 92 | 131 | 126 | 228 | 262 | 162 | 263 | 252 | 116 | 115 | 100 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Shifen is famous for its waterfall and the old railway track that runs right through the market. Both are freely accessible; the waterfall park charges a small entrance fee.
Typical hours
The waterfall park is typically open from 9:00 to 17:00. The market area is accessible 24/7, but most stalls open late morning.
Photography
Photography is actively encouraged at the waterfall and on the market with the trains. Be aware of approaching trains - they are a popular subject.
Time needed
Allow about two to three hours for the waterfall, a walk through the market, and releasing a sky lantern. Longer if you explore the surrounding trails.
Combine with
Combine Shifen with nearby Jiufen - a scenic mountain village with tea houses. The Shifen Old Street also gives many souvenir shops and snacks.
Getting there
Shifen is reached by the Pingxi Line from Ruifang (train). The journey takes about 30 minutes. From the station, the waterfall is a short walk or shuttle ride.
Insider tip
Release a sky lantern with your wishes on the railway tracks - a unique experience. Buy the lantern on-site and write your wishes on it.
Geography
Facts
- Little Niagara of Taiwan
- Market on the train tracks
- Great Shifen Waterfall
- Jingan Suspension Bridge
- Lanterns on the rails
- Pingxi Railway branch
- Stuffed chicken wing snack
- Historic mining heritage
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Shifen (9)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Shifen: where is it located?
Shifen is located in Taiwan.
Shifen: what is there to see?
Highlights include Bianfushan, Dazhulinshan, viewpoint towards Hegu waterfall.
Shifen: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Nov, Dec.
Shifen: why is it worth visiting?
Shifen is the most animated stop on the Pingxi Railway Line, globally renowned for the Shifen Waterfall, often called the 'Little Niagara of Taiwan'.
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