A Rainy Start with Golden Rewards

As I embarked on the Jiufen & Shifen Adventure, the skies were overcast, and a gentle drizzle greeted us at the Keelung port. Yet, the rain couldn’t dampen my spirits, especially with our guide, Jennifer, who was prepared for every eventuality. She handed out raincoats and umbrellas, ensuring we remained dry and comfortable. Her attention to detail was impeccable, and it set the tone for the day.

Our first stop was the Golden Waterfall, a sight that was nothing short of mesmerizing. The rain had ceased by the time we arrived, and the waterfall shimmered against the backdrop of the sea, its golden hue a testament to the area’s rich mining history. Jennifer’s knowledge of the local history was impressive, and she painted vivid pictures of the past, making the experience all the more enriching.

Tea, Traditions, and Timeless Streets

Jiufen, a quaint old mining town perched on the mountainside, was our next destination. The town’s charm was undeniable, with its narrow streets and traditional tea houses that seemed to have leaped out of a Miyazaki film. We indulged in a delightful tea session, followed by a sumptuous lunch of beef noodles and pork with rice. Jennifer shared the origins of the beef noodles, a dish brought to Taiwan by soldiers of Chiang Kai-Shek, adding layers of cultural context to our meal.

Strolling through Jiufen’s bustling streets, I was captivated by the myriad of shops and food stalls. Each corner offered a new discovery, from quirky souvenirs to tantalizing street food. The town’s vibrant energy was infectious, and I found myself lost in its labyrinthine alleys, each turn revealing a new facet of its charm.

Wishes in the Wind and Waterfall Wonders

Our adventure continued to Shifen, where the majestic Shifen Waterfall awaited. The walk to the waterfall was an experience in itself, with suspension bridges offering breathtaking views of the river below. The waterfall’s roar was a symphony of nature, and its beauty was a testament to the power of the natural world.

In Shifen Old Street, we participated in the age-old tradition of releasing sky lanterns. Jennifer guided us as we inscribed our wishes onto the lanterns, watching them ascend into the sky, carrying our dreams with them. The experience was magical, a moment of reflection and hope.

As we wandered along the railroad track, the aroma of bubble tea and peanut ice cream rolls filled the air, tempting us to indulge. Jennifer’s expertise and warmth made the day seamless, allowing us to savor each moment without the rush of a group tour. Her thoughtful gesture of sending us a sketch post-tour was the perfect memento of a day well spent.

This journey through Jiufen and Shifen was more than just a tour; it was an immersion into the heart of Taiwan’s culture and history, a day filled with laughter, learning, and lasting memories.