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This time, I'm thrilled to share my experience with the 10 AM Departure Yehliu, Shifen, Houtong (Cat Village) / Shifen Waterfall, Jiufen Night View Bus Tour with Korean Guide & Flexible Drop-off.
It's a fantastic journey that lets you soak in Taiwan's special sights and charming experiences without any hassle.
Wishing you a safe and wonderful trip, I'm cheering for your adventures!
Planning Your Taiwan Adventure?
Are you dreaming of an unforgettable trip to Taiwan?
Taipei itself is amazing, but Taiwan's charm truly expands when you venture out to its stunning northern coast.
Imagine unique geological formations, charming old streets, and vibrant night markets.
But let's be real, organizing public transport to places like Yehliu, Shifen, and Jiufen can be a bit of a puzzle, especially if you're short on time or not fluent in the local language.
That's exactly why this bus tour is a total game-changer!
It takes all the stress out of planning, allowing you to relax and truly immerse yourself in the beauty of each spot.
No need to worry about confusing train schedules or hailing taxis.
You simply hop on a comfortable bus and let an expert guide lead the way.
This tour isn't just about seeing places; it's about experiencing them deeply and effortlessly, making every moment count.
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Why This Tour Is Absolutely Brilliant!
From my own experience, this tour really stands out for so many reasons.
First off, having a Korean-speaking guide made a massive difference.
They weren't just reciting facts; they were engaging storytellers, sharing cultural insights and local anecdotes that truly brought each place to life.
It felt like traveling with a knowledgeable friend!
I was also incredibly impressed by the 'no shopping, no options, no tips' policy – it meant no pressure, just pure, unadulterated sightseeing.
Plus, the safety aspect was well covered with local vehicle and accident insurance, which gave me immense peace of mind.
You can even pre-order local delicacies like the famous Shifen chicken wings and get help reserving your sky lantern experience, saving precious time.
And here’s a cool flexible feature: depending on group numbers or conditions, the tour might visit Shifen Waterfall instead of Houtong.
I heard from others and even experienced a slight adjustment during my trip, and it just goes to show how adaptable and well-organized they are to ensure you have a fantastic time, no matter what.
The convenience of storing your luggage on the bus (even large carriers!) is another huge bonus, especially if you're moving between accommodations.
Essential Details You Need to Know
This tour kicks off bright and early at 10 AM, with convenient meeting points at Ximen Exit 5 and Taipei Main Station M3 B1.
The itinerary typically takes you through Yehliu, Shifen, Houtong (or Shifen Waterfall), Jinguashi, and finally Jiufen.
Each stop is carefully timed, giving you enough freedom to explore without feeling rushed – for instance, we had a generous 70 minutes at Yehliu and about 130 minutes to soak in Jiufen's magical atmosphere, especially at sunset.
It's important to keep an eye on public holidays in Taiwan, as some attractions like Jinguashi's Gold Museum might be closed.
Also, during peak times like weekends or festivals, local regulations might require using public transport for a short segment to enter Jiufen.
But don't worry, the guide explains everything, and it's a small local bus ride that only adds to the adventure.
Crucially, remember to provide your passport information for the local 1-day accident and vehicle insurance.
This ensures your safety and peace of mind throughout the journey.
And just a heads-up, the tour usually needs a minimum of 15 participants to run, so booking in advance is always a good idea!
My Ideal Day: A Recommended Itinerary
Let me walk you through what your day could look like, just like mine did!
We started by meeting our friendly guide at 09:20 at Ximen Station, then picked up more travelers at Taipei Main Station by 09:50.
Exactly at 10:00 AM, we were off, heading towards our first adventure.
Around 11:00 AM, we arrived at Yehliu Geopark, where we spent a fascinating 70 minutes marveling at the Queen's Head and other unique rock formations.
Then it was off to Shifen, arriving around 1:00 PM for an hour of pure joy, releasing sky lanterns and grabbing that must-try chicken wing rice.
Next up, around 2:40 PM, we explored Houtong Cat Village for about 70 minutes, where I melted interacting with all the adorable felines.
After that, a quick stop at Jinguashi around 4:20 PM for an hour, soaking in its historical ambiance.
The grand finale was Jiufen, arriving around 5:30 PM, just in time to catch the stunning sunset and witness the lanterns light up its atmospheric alleys for 2 hours and 10 minutes.
At 7:10 PM, with our hearts full of memories, we departed Jiufen.
We had the choice to be dropped off at Raohe Night Market, Taipei Main Station, or Ximen Station, which was super convenient.
It was a jam-packed but incredibly well-paced day, with every moment feeling perfectly timed to maximize our experience.
Getting There: Location and Logistics
The beauty of this tour truly lies in its seamless logistics.
You start from two of Taipei's most central and easily accessible locations: Ximen Station (Exit 5) or Taipei Main Station (M3, B1).
These meeting points are super easy to find, no matter where you're staying in the city.
From there, the tour bus whisks you away to the diverse landscapes of Taiwan's northeastern coast.
You'll travel comfortably to Yehliu Geopark, located on the northern coast, known for its unique geological formations sculpted by the sea.
Then it's inland to the quaint railway town of Shifen, famous for its waterfalls and sky lanterns.
Afterward, you head to Houtong, the charming cat village nestled in the mountains (or the powerful Shifen Waterfall).
Finally, you journey to the iconic mountain town of Jiufen, with its stunning ocean views and atmospheric old street.
Trying to connect all these points via public transport would involve multiple transfers and a lot of waiting.
This tour truly eliminates all that stress.
Plus, the flexible drop-off options at Raohe Night Market, Taipei Main Station, or Ximen Station mean you can end your day right where you need to be, whether it's for more exploring or heading straight back to your accommodation.
My Top Travel Tips & Must-Have Gear
Having done this tour, I've got some personal tips to make your day even better!
First, wear comfortable walking shoes! You'll be doing a fair bit of walking at Yehliu, Jiufen, and if you visit Shifen Waterfall.
Taiwan's weather can be a bit unpredictable, so definitely pack a small umbrella or a light raincoat.
I was so glad I did when a sudden shower hit!
Bring cash for snacks, souvenirs, and maybe a sky lantern at Shifen.
While some places accept cards, many local vendors prefer cash.
A huge tip: listen to your guide for food recommendations and local insights.
Our guide helped us pre-order those famous Shifen chicken wings, saving us so much time, and even told us about the amazing receipt lottery system in Taiwan – a fun little detail I wouldn't have known otherwise!
Carry a portable power bank; you'll be taking tons of photos, I promise!
And don't forget a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, especially on warmer days.
Finally, embrace the local culture.
Try new foods, interact with the friendly locals, and just soak in all the incredible sights and sounds.
You'll leave with so many fantastic memories!
Why This Tour is My Top Recommendation
Honestly, if you're looking to explore Taiwan beyond Taipei, this bus tour is a no-brainer.
I can't stress enough how much value it offers.
It's a perfectly curated itinerary that hits all the major highlights of the northeast coast, giving you a comprehensive taste of Taiwan's natural beauty and cultural richness.
The comfort of the air-conditioned bus, coupled with the incredible insights from a local Korean-speaking guide, elevates the entire experience.
You simply can't get this level of convenience and depth trying to navigate these spots on your own.
For me, the best part was being able to fully immerse myself in the moment at each location – taking stunning photos, savoring local treats, and just admiring the scenery – without the constant worry of how do I get to the next place? or am I missing something important?.
It truly allowed me to relax and enjoy every single minute of my Taiwan adventure.
Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning to Taiwan, this tour offers an enriching and utterly delightful way to see the country's iconic gems.
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A Journey to Remember: My Final Thoughts
So, there you have it, my deep dive into what made this Taiwan bus tour an absolute highlight of my trip!
From the majestic Queen's Head at Yehliu to the breathtaking Jiufen nightscape, and the adorable cat residents of Houtong, every stop was a unique adventure.
This tour isn't just about ticking off famous spots; it's about creating cherished memories, learning about a vibrant culture, and experiencing Taiwan's stunning beauty with ease and comfort.
The guides are truly passionate, the itinerary is well-paced, and the convenience is simply unmatched.
If you're hesitating, don't!
Take the leap, book this tour, and prepare for an incredible day full of discovery and wonder.
I guarantee you'll come back with a camera full of amazing photos and a heart full of unforgettable stories, just like I did.
Your next big Taiwan adventure awaits!
Into the Reviews: My Unforgettable Day!
My recent trip to Taiwan was absolutely phenomenal, largely thanks to this incredible bus tour! I remember our guide, let's call her 'Jjangga' (as many reviews affectionately call their guides), who was just fantastic. From the moment we boarded, her infectious energy made the whole day a joy. She didn't just point out sights; she wove captivating stories about Taiwan's history and culture, making every stop so much more meaningful. I particularly loved how she shared practical local tips, like which street foods to try and even that amazing 'receipt lottery' detail which I wouldn't have known otherwise! It was such a cool local insight.
The journey itself was so comfortable. I appreciated the smooth driving and the clean bus – perfect for a long day of exploring. And speaking of exploring, the pre-order service for things like the Shifen chicken wings and sky lanterns was a lifesaver! No waiting in long lines, just pure enjoyment. Our guide even helped us get the best photos with the sky lanterns, which was such a thoughtful touch, perfectly capturing those precious moments.
Even though my original plan was for Houtong Cat Village, our tour adapted smoothly to the Shifen Waterfall route due to group size, and honestly, it was breathtaking! The waterfall itself was gorgeous, and it just showed how flexible and well-organized the tour was. Our guide ensured we still got plenty of charming cat encounters at other spots, so I didn't feel like I missed out on any feline fun.
One of the things that truly stood out was how well the guide managed our time. We had ample opportunity to explore each location, from the unique geological formations at Yehliu to the bustling streets of Jiufen at sunset, which was truly magical. And the best part? Not having to worry about navigating public transport or finding parking. Just sit back, relax, and soak it all in. I even got some amazing Dongfang Meiren tea at Jiufen, thanks to our guide's recommendation! It was absolutely perfect.
Seriously, if you're planning a trip to Taipei, especially if it's your first time or you're looking for a stress-free way to see the highlights, this bus tour is an absolute must. Our guide's passion for Taiwan was contagious, and her dedication to ensuring everyone had an unforgettable experience was truly heartwarming. I'm already thinking about my next trip back, and I know who I'll be recommending this tour to!
