Jiufen (九份)
It is
said that long time ago there were only nine families in Jiufen. Before the
roads on land were built, all materials were transported via ships. Thus a
habit was formed that nine pieces of same object were purchased at one time for
reservation. Hence, the place was called Jiufen.
Jiufen used to be the center of gold mining. The town of Jiufen is
built into the side of the hills slightly inland from the Pacific Ocean
coastline. The main area of interest to visitors are the town's historic
commercial district which is covered by two pedestrian streets: Jishan Street (基山街, which
runs along the ridge line), and Shuchi (Shuqi) Street (豎崎路, which
runs up and down the slope of the hill). The area is small enough to cover on
foot.
From Taipei, take the train north to Ruifang Station (瑞芳火车站). The
journey is about 20 min. Upon reaching the station, look for the black sign
that heads towards Jiu Fen (往九份). After exiting the station, cross the street to
the bus stop next to the Welcome Mart (顶好) and board the Keelung Transit bus (number 1062,
788, 856, 825 or any buses that is
heading to Jinguashi 金瓜石) towards Jiufen. The bus trip takes roughly 15
minutes (Get off at the "Jiujeko" station, which is closest to Jiufen
Old Street (Jishan Street)), and the fare is NT$21 during the week, NT$15
during weekends/holiday.
It is advisable not to come during weekends and Taiwan’s public
holidays to enjoy the serenity of the town.
Many visitors prefer to visit Keelung and its fantastic Miaokou Night
Market (廟口夜市) before returning by local train (區間車) back
to Taipei City. To get to Keelung from Jiufen, simply take any city bus bound
for Keelung. The bus will arrive at Keelung train station right next to the
harbor and night market.
Keelung (40 mins train ride from Taipei)
▪ YM Oceanic
Culture & Art Museum (陽明海洋文化艺術館; Tues-Sun 9am-5pm; NT$50)
▪ Temple Plaza
Night Market (廟口夜市; www.miaokow.org; on Ren 3rd Road, between Ai 3rd Road
and Ai 4th Road)
◇ 鼎邊趖 serves thick rice noodles in mixed seafood both (ding3-bian1-suo1
at no. 25-1 and 27-3 inside temple courtyard; NT$20-50)
