Shifen Waterfall is Taiwan’s most famous cascade, fed by the Keelung River, and measures about 20 metres (66 feet) high and 40 metres (131 feet) wide. Reaching the viewing platform takes about a 30-minute walk, partly shaded and crossing a suspension bridge.

This old street is right next to Shifen Station in the Pingxi area, where an active railway line runs straight through the market. Visitors launch sky lanterns on the tracks, pausing whenever a train rumbles by.

Feel transported to this former gold-mining mountain town—once built by the Japanese and now a maze of history-rich lanes and alleys. Most of the charming streets are stairways lined with snack stalls and teahouses, and they can get quite crowded. (Tip: If you’d like to experience Jiufen at sunset or dusk, book a departure after 11:00 AM. This will make Jiufen the final stop, giving you time to enjoy the sunset views and evening lights.)