Jiufen Old Street
Taiwan
Jiufen Old Street is a renowned series of narrow alleyways and a bustling night market located in Jiufen, Ruifang District, New Taipei, Taiwan. It is celebrated as one of Taiwan's most iconic night markets, attracting visitors with its traditional street foods such as fried fish, noodle soups, peanut ice cream rolls, pork dumplings, sweet potato and taro balls, and Taiwanese sausages. The area combines rich historical and cultural heritage with stunning natural scenery, offering views of Keelung Islet, Badouzi, and other coastal landscapes. The old street's main commercial areas include Jishan Street, Shuzixi Road, and Qingbian Road, featuring a lively atmosphere that reflects Jiufen's mining town past. Visitors can experience both the vibrant daytime market and the serene nighttime ambiance, often enjoying tea in traditional teahouses overlooking the sea. Jiufen Old Street is a unique blend of history, culture, and culinary delights, making it a must-visit destination in northern Taiwan.
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Tip: The best time to visit Jiufen Old Street is during weekdays to avoid large crowds, especially in the morning or early afternoon. Purchasing tickets or reservations is generally not required, but planning ahead for weekends or holidays is advisable due to high visitor volume. Visitors can enjoy discounts or combo offers at some food stalls. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to the steep and narrow alleys. Exploring both day and night offers contrasting but equally beautiful experiences.
Interesting facts
- •National Geographic has called Jiufen Old Street one of Taiwan's most iconic night markets.
- •Jiufen Old Street offers panoramic views of Keelung Islet and other coastal areas from its elevated position.
- •The area was historically the highest consumer spending district in Taiwan during the mining boom.
- •The name 'Shuzixi Road' comes from the steep stone stairway that connects various parts of Jiufen.
- •A light railway built in 1931 once operated along Qingbian Road to transport goods between Jiufen and Ruifang.
History
Jiufen Old Street developed as a commercial hub during the gold mining boom in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, serving miners and their families.
Its main street, Jishan Street, was once the most prosperous commercial area in Taiwan, illuminated around the clock to accommodate miners' shifts.
The construction of roads such as Shuzixi Road and Qingbian Road followed the town's expansion and mining logistics, including a light railway built during the Japanese colonial period in 1931 to facilitate transport between Jiufen and Ruifang.
After the decline of mining in the mid-20th century, Jiufen transitioned into a tourist destination, preserving its historic architecture and cultural identity.
Place Guide
Jishan Streetlate 19th century
The main commercial street of Jiufen Old Street, historically the most prosperous shopping area serving miners, now filled with shops and food stalls offering local delicacies.
Shuzixi Roadearly 20th century
A steep stone stairway road built according to the mountain terrain, connecting Jiufen's key areas and forming the busiest zone of the old street.
Qingbian Road1931-1954
Named after the light railway that operated here during Japanese rule, Qingbian Road was used for transporting goods between Jiufen and Ruifang until the railway was dismantled in 1954.
A-Mei Tea House
A famous traditional teahouse offering visitors a chance to experience Jiufen's serene night atmosphere with views overlooking the sea and fishing lights.
Contact
Phone: 02 2406 3270