Pingxi Day Trip from Taipei with a Local: Private & Personalized

Taipei , Taiwan (Republic of China)

Pingxi Day Trip from Taipei with a Local: Private & Personalized

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About this experience

Escape Taipei for a day and explore two historic towns nestled in the mountains north of the city: Pingxi and Jiufen on this personalised experience. Exploring these enchanting spots feels a world away from busy city life, and with a Local Host by your side you’ll be able to discover the hidden gems as well as the highlights. Strolling through the cobbled streets you’ll soon see why Jiufen was the inspiration for Miyazaki film Spirited Away! Soak up the atmosphere at traditional tea houses and take in the stunning sea views and mountain landscape, discover the rich history and culture of these spots and do like the locals do and release a sky lantern into the heavens.

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Pingxi Day Trip from Taipei with a Local: Private & Personalized

What's included

Transport costs from Taipei to Pingxi and Jiufen (round trip)

Private and personalized experience

8 hours with a Local host (incl. travel time)

Walking experience once at Pingxi and Jiufen

What you'll see

What You'll Do

With a Local Host to navigate, journey to the historic northern towns of Pingxi and Jiufen to experience another side of Taiwan’s rich culture and swap the busy city for a more relaxed pace. Explore picturesque Jiufen, a former gold mining town. Wander through the charming cobbled streets, soak up the history and stop off at traditional tea house. Enjoy lunch with your Local Host at an authentic eatery, whether you want to try the region’s street food or relax in a restaurant, your Local Host will recommend a spot that suits your preferences!

Next, you’ll visit Pingxi, home of the famous Sky Lantern Festival - you can make your own and release them into the sky, sending your wishes up to the heavens just like the locals do! Discover the history of these two towns and enjoy the stunning natural landscapes that these old world spots are located in. Get suggestions from your Local Host about other towns and neighbourhoods to explore during the rest of your trip, so you can make the most of your time in Taipei and the surrounding area!

What To Expect
* Escape the city for a day and visit the historic mining towns of Pingxi and Jiufen with a Local Host
* Wander through the enchanting cobbled streets and soak up the gold mining history of Jiufen
* See stunning ocean views, charming back streets and traditional architecture
* Explore Pingxi, another historic mining town where you can make and release a sky lantern
* Enjoy an authentic local meal at a spot that suits your preferences and is recommended by your host
* Get tips and tricks from your Local Host about other towns to explore during your stay

What's not included

Food & drinks

Additional Transportation

Tickets or entries to attractions

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

CMN EN

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Your host will meet you at Song Shan MRT station exit 5. Alternatively, after booking, you can adjust the meeting point to fit your preferences with the help of our Experience Planners.

Important notes

We’ll be in touch within 24 hours after booking to find out more about your personality and interests so we can assign a like-minded local who will create a bespoke experience for you

About Taipei

Taipei, the vibrant capital of Taiwan, is a fascinating blend of traditional culture and modern innovation. Known for its bustling night markets, towering skyscrapers, and lush green mountains, Taipei offers a unique urban experience with a rich cultural heritage.

Top Attractions

Taipei 101

Once the tallest building in the world, Taipei 101 is an iconic skyscraper and a symbol of modern Taipei. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck on the 89th floor.

Architecture/Observation Deck 1-2 hours NT$600-800 (observation deck ticket)

Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

This national memorial hall is dedicated to Chiang Kai-shek, former leader of the Republic of China. The hall features a large museum, gardens, and a daily changing of the guard ceremony.

Historical/Memorial 1-2 hours Free (museum admission may vary)

Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan)

Elephant Mountain is a popular hiking spot offering one of the best views of Taipei 101 and the city skyline. The hike is relatively short and suitable for most fitness levels.

Nature/Scenic Viewpoint 1-2 hours (hike and sightseeing) Free

Shilin Night Market

One of the largest and most famous night markets in Taipei, Shilin Night Market offers a wide variety of street food, snacks, and shopping. It's a must-visit for food lovers.

Food/Market 2-3 hours Budget to moderate (depending on food and shopping)

Beitou Hot Springs

Beitou is known for its natural hot springs, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. There are several public and private hot spring resorts to choose from.

Relaxation/Spas 2-3 hours Moderate to expensive (depending on the resort)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Beef Noodle Soup

A hearty soup made with tender beef, chewy noodles, and a rich, flavorful broth. It's considered Taiwan's national dish.

Lunch/Dinner Contains beef and gluten (noodles).

Bubble Tea

A popular Taiwanese beverage made with tea, milk, and chewy tapioca pearls. It comes in various flavors and can be enjoyed hot or cold.

Drink Vegetarian (if made without dairy).

Oyster Omelet

A savory omelet made with fresh oysters, eggs, and a sweet and tangy sauce. It's a popular street food item.

Snack Contains seafood and eggs.

Stinky Tofu

Fermented tofu with a strong odor, usually deep-fried and served with pickled cabbage and sauce. It's an acquired taste but a must-try for adventurous eaters.

Snack Vegetarian (if made without meat-based broth).

Popular Activities

Hiking in Yangmingshan National Park Paragliding in Wuling Farm Visiting Beitou Hot Springs Tea tasting in Maokong Exploring historic temples and shrines Visiting museums and art galleries Kayaking in the Tamsui River Stand-up paddleboarding in Ximending

Best Time to Visit

October to December

This period offers pleasant weather with comfortable temperatures and clear skies, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. It's also the time for various festivals and events.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Mandarin Chinese
Widely spoken: English, Taiwanese (Hokkien), Hakka
English: Moderately spoken (in tourist areas and among younger generations)

Currency

New Taiwan Dollar (TWD)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

110VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Taipei is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, visitors should still take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night

Getting there

By air

Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport • 40 km from city center
Taipei Songshan Airport • 10 km from city center

By train

Taipei Main Station, Banqiao Station

By bus

Taipei Bus Station, Taipei City Hall Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Taipei Metro is clean, efficient, and easy to use. It operates from 6:00 AM to midnight and has both English and Chinese signage.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Taiwan Taxi App

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Ximending Daan Zhongshan

Day trips

Jiufen

40 km from Taipei • Half day to full day

A charming mountain town known for its narrow streets, tea houses, and historic sites. Jiufen is often compared to a smaller version of Tokyo's Golden Gai.

Yehliu Geopark

40 km from Taipei • Half day

A unique geopark featuring fascinating rock formations, including the famous Queen's Head, created by erosion over thousands of years.

Tamsui

15 km from Taipei • Half day to full day

A historic district at the mouth of the Tamsui River, known for its beautiful sunset views, historic sites, and vibrant night market.

Festivals

Taipei Lantern Festival • February (dates vary, typically around the Chinese New Year) Taipei Pride • Late October (dates vary) Taipei International Food Show • June (dates vary)

Pro tips

Use the EasyCard for convenient and discounted payments on public transportation, as well as for access to some attractions and shops.
Visit popular attractions, such as Taipei 101 and the National Palace Museum, early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
Explore the city's vibrant night markets, such as Shilin and Raohe, for an authentic and unforgettable culinary experience.
Take a day trip to nearby attractions, such as Jiufen, Yehliu Geopark, and Tamsui, to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region.
Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases to enhance your travel experience and connect with locals.