Find the Shifen Waterfall in the Pingxi District of New Taipei City. It’s the perfect natural getaway after a few days of exploring the bustling streets, markets and malls of Taipei.
The tiered waterfalls sit in a bend shaped like a horseshoe, so it’s no wonder that people have likened these cascades to Canada’s side of the famous Niagara Falls.
The falls are 66 feet (20 meters) tall and 131 feet (40 meters) wide. The curtain of water looks like the see-through veil of a bride. The lush vegetation and turquoise waters of the river make the scene look picture-perfect when the sun is out. Bring a tripod to capture the flow in slow motion in the morning for an even more mystical effect.
After visiting the falls, spend an hour or so exploring the Shifen Old Street area next to the train station. It’s a tradition to light a sky lantern here and let the air carry it away as you make a wish. The thin paper lanterns are colored and which color you should buy depends on what you want to wish for.
The annual Pingxi Lantern Festival is held here on the last day of the Lunar New Year, a magical event to attend.
To get to Shifen, take a northbound train from the Taipei Main Station to Ruifang train station and switch to the Pingxi line. The trip takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. The signs at the train stations are in English and most locals will assist you in English if you find yourself in doubt.
From the train station, follow the signs until you get to the waterfalls, a walk which should take about 25 minutes. The scenic hike takes in a couple of suspension bridges and mountain views. If you can’t walk that far, rent an electric bike for an hour from near the station.
You can also take the shuttle bus service that connects Taipei with Shifen and Jiufen. Another option that will take about as much time is taking a guided tour of Shifen, Pingxi and Jiufen combined. If money is less of an issue or you are in a hurry, hire a private driver or rent a car for half a day.
