🟢 The Lazy Pack: Great Views with a 10-Minute Walk (Highest Reward/Effort Ratio) Don't want to sweat or climb high, but still want to take those "impressive-looking" photos? Pick this zone.
Baoshishan Trail: I rank this #1! Because it is super short; it only takes about a 10-minute walk on a wooden boardwalk to reach the top. You can see postcard-level ocean views without even catching your breath. It has the highest return on investment.
Yin Yang Sea & Shuinandong (13-Layer Remains): The water here is half golden and half azure—a natural wonder. Right next to it are the ruins of the old refinery. When lit up at night, it looks just like a mysterious castle from a Miyazaki animation, full of atmosphere.
Badouzi Station: Known as the most beautiful station in Northern Taiwan. Step off the train, and the ocean is right at your feet. It is perfect for spacing out in the sea breeze or snapping some "Japan-style" railway photos.
🔵 Still Have Energy? Up for a Challenge? The Scenery is Worth the Ticket Price If you like outdoor sports or want to see those spectacular "Wow" views, these trails might make you sweat a bit, but the scenery up top guarantees you won't regret it.
Teapot Mountain (Wuerchahu Shan): Jiufen's landmark! The higher you go up the trail, the wider the view becomes. Looking back from the top, the curve of the bay is so beautiful that you will forget your legs are sore.
Keelung Mountain (Mt. Jilong): It's that pointy mountain right next to the Old Street. Fair warning: there are a lot of stairs, and you might question your life choices while climbing, but the 360-degree night view of Jiufen from the summit is an irreplaceable experience.
Bitoujiao Trail & Lighthouse: Known as "Taiwan’s Little Great Wall." The trail follows the mountain ridge, making it feel like you are walking in the middle of the sea. The white lighthouse against the blue sky looks beautiful from every angle.
Banping Mountain: Right next to Teapot Mountain, but with a wilder beauty. The mountain walls look spectacularly sliced by a knife—perfect for those who love grand mountain scenery.
🟤 Step into a Time Tunnel: Old Places with Stories Jiufen isn't just about scenery; it has many stories left over from the mining days. These places have an indescribable, melancholic beauty.
Sandiaoling Eco-Friendly Tunnel: A secret spot that has exploded in popularity recently! Formerly a train tunnel, it is now a greenery-filled trail. There is a "mirror pool" inside with dream-like reflections, and it is cool and comfortable to walk through.
Jinguashi Geological Park: There is a neatly arranged "stone array" here that looks like an alien masterpiece. There are far fewer tourists here than on the Old Street. It has a quiet, desolate beauty that I really love for walks.
Houtong Cat Village & Coal Mine Park: A must-visit for cat lovers, but I also recommend checking out the abandoned "Coal Transport Bridge" there. Petting cats while looking at the traces of the "Black Gold" era makes for a very healing afternoon.
🟡 Rainy Day Backup / Family Fun It rains often in Jiufen. If the weather is bad, or if you are with kids, these two places are lifesavers.
NMMST (National Museum of Marine Science and Technology): Located in Badouzi, and it is huge! With an IMAX marine theater, kids will go crazy having fun. It is also a great place to hide from the rain and enjoy the A/C.
Pingxi Sky Lanterns: Although it's a bit touristy, the emotion of writing down your wish and watching it fly up is very real. The scenery along the train line is also great, making it perfect for couples or families to visit.
💡 Host’s Little Tips: The weather in the mountains changes fast. If you want to visit these spots but aren't sure if the weather is suitable today? Or don't know how to take the bus? Come ask me anytime, and I'll check for you!