Red Lantern Mountain Town: A Nostalgic Half-Day Journey Through Jiufen Old Street

During the late Qing Dynasty, Jiufen thrived due to its gold mining and camphor industries, attracting over 4,000 immigrant households. It was once hailed as the "Asian Gold City," "Little Hong Kong," and "Little Shanghai." • With the decline of the gold mining industry, Jiufen fell into silence. However, in the 1980s, films like "A City of Sadness" brought it back to life. Its retro alleys and mountain-sea layout have since become a favorite destination for travelers. • According to Taiwan's Ministry of Economic Affairs Tourism Bureau, Jiufen offers unique seasonal charms: cherry blossoms in spring, misty landscapes in summer, silver grass in autumn, and winter fog, each moment exuding a natural dramatic flair. 🏮 Space and Street Features Jiufen Old Street is primarily composed of pathways like Jishan Street, Shuqi Road, Qingbian Road, and Zhanqiao Lane, which unfold along the mountain's stepped terrain. Cars cannot enter, making it ideal for leisurely exploration. • Jishan Street (Main Old Street): Lined with old teahouses and antique shops, it also features viewing platforms overlooking the sea. • Shuqi Road: A stone staircase road dotted with teahouses, offering a quintessential mountain town vibe. • Qingbian Road: Once a trolley route connecting mines, now transformed into a cultural alley. • Zhanqiao Lane: A hidden alley with scenic spots and creative shops, perfect for photography and exploration. 🍡 Culinary Memories—Jiufen Old Street Snacks Blending nostalgia with innovation, Jiufen's cuisine is another highlight of the old street: • Taro balls and sweet potato balls: Served hot or cold, they are chewy and flavorful. • Grass cakes, taro cakes, and red yeast rice meatballs: Traditional snacks with a balanced sweet and savory taste. • Iron eggs, fish balls, fish crisps, fermented tofu, and black sugar mochi: A wide variety of small bites. • A-Mei Tea House: A landmark teahouse known for its architecture and red lantern aesthetics, perfect for iconic photos. 🌅 Mountain-Sea Scenery and Nighttime Charm • The pathways and teahouses offer views of Yin-Yang Sea and Keelung Mountain, with morning glows and nighttime fishing lights creating picturesque scenes. • At night, when the red lanterns light up, Jiufen transforms into a fairytale wonderland, reminiscent of animated movie settings. 📌 Must-Visit Highlights 1. Shengping Theater: The first local movie theater, rich in retro ambiance. 2. Gold Museum (Jinguashi): Experience gold mining culture up close, including a giant gold bar display. 3. Wu Clay Figurine Ghost Exhibition: A unique and intriguing exhibition. 🚌 Travel Tips and Transportation • The most convenient way is to take Bus 1062 from Taipei (direct from Zhongxiao Fuxing). • Alternatively, transfer via bus from Ruifang or take a train and then transfer. • Allocate 6–8 hours for a half-day trip, or extend your visit to Jinguashi. 🗺️ Sample Itinerary (8 Hours) 10:00 Arrive at Jiufen Old Street entrance, explore Jishan Street and Shuqi Road 11:00 Enjoy taro balls, grass cakes, and tea at A-Mei Tea House 12:00 Take photos at Shengping Theater and Wu Clay Figurine Exhibition 13:00 Head to the Gold Museum or hike to Jinguashi for exploration 15:00 Visit a mountain viewing platform to overlook Yin-Yang Sea 16:00 Evening tea time, enjoy the scenery and photograph lantern-lit night views 17:00 Return to Taipei by bus Jiufen is not just an old street; it’s a fusion of time and memories. Its golden mining glory, cinematic settings, and teahouse ambiance weave together a unique mountain town charm. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, photography lover, foodie, or fairytale dreamer, you’ll find surprises here.