Pingxi, Jiufen & Jiaoxi Weekend Getaway
A short public transit route from Taipei, featuring Shifen Waterfall, the mountain town of Jiufen, Jinguashi, and Jiaoxi Hot Springs.
Connect two popular short routes around Taipei into a loop: visit waterfalls on the Pingxi Line, stay in Jiufen to enjoy the night views, explore mining ruins in Jinguashi, transfer to a train to Jiaoxi for hot springs, and return to the city by bus via the Hsuehshan Tunnel. There is no need to rent a car for the entire trip. You will need to carry your luggage up and down slopes in the mountain town, and it is best to head out early on holidays to avoid crowds.
The northeast region is rainy in winter, and misty rain is common in Jiufen, so bring rain gear.
Day by day
Day 1 · Pingxi Line to Jiufen Old Street
Jiufen & Jinguashi（Shifen Waterfall、Shifen Old Street、Jiufen Old Street、Shengping Theater）
Take the TRA train to Ruifang, transfer to the Pingxi Line to Shifen, return to Ruifang in the afternoon, and take Bus 788 or 827 up to Jiufen.
Choose licensed shops for releasing sky lanterns; check the schedule in advance as trains on the Pingxi Line run at long intervals.
Stay: Jiufen Old Street Area
Day 2 · Jinguashi and Transfer to Jiaoxi Hot Springs
Jiufen & Jinguashi（Gold Museum (Jinguashi)、Baoshishan Trail、Golden Waterfall、Yin Yang Sea） → Yilan（Jiaoxi Hot Springs）
Take a bus to Jinguashi and Shuinandong, return to Ruifang, and take the TRA train to Jiaoxi (approx. 1 hour).
The Gold Museum is usually closed on the first Monday of each month, so confirm beforehand.
Stay: Jiaoxi
Day 3 · Waterfalls, Yilan City, and Return
Yilan（Wufengqi Waterfall、Jimmy Square）
Take a taxi from Jiaoxi to Wufengci, take the TRA train to Yilan in the afternoon, and take a bus back to Taipei (approx. 1 hour).