Pingxi Old Street Tour from Taipei: Worth It?

This is a half-day to full-day trip from Taipei into the mountainous northeast. You’ll ride out by train or van, walk along Pingxi Old Street’s single track (trains still pass through), release a sky lantern, then usually continue to Shifen Old Street and waterfall. The lantern part feels touristy but still delivers a genuine “only in Taiwan” moment when dozens of glowing paper lanterns drift up into the valley at dusk. Expect crowds on weekends, uneven sidewalks, and a mix of souvenir shops and small temples. The scenery is green and peaceful once you get past the main strip; it’s not a quiet nature hike but it’s far more atmospheric than staying in the city.

Best time is October to early March on a weekday morning departure. Summer is hot, humid, and the lanterns look weaker in bright daylight. Expect to pay around $90–160 per person depending on whether you go private, join a small group, or add Jiufen. That usually covers transport, basic lantern, and guide. Food and extra lanterns are on you. One honest tip: skip the overpriced “VIP” lantern packages at the main shops and just buy a basic one on the street; they fly the same. Definitely do the short walk to Shifen Waterfall if your tour includes it — it’s the prettiest part of the day.