Pingxi Old Street: lantern-town atmosphere on the Pingxi Line
A day-trip classic for old-town lanes and rail-line vibes—pair it with Shifen for a full Pingxi Line day without rushing.
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A practical guide to one of Taipei’s easiest ‘small-town’ escapes—pick one rail-line vibe (lantern towns, waterfalls, cats), then keep the day spacious.
Best for
Trips 4+ days, photographers, cat lovers, slower travel
Time to read
6–8 minutes
Core idea
Pick 2 stops max
Highlights
- A ‘one line, one day’ approach that avoids rushing
- How to combine Pingxi + Shifen without overload
- Houtong adds a lighter, cuter texture to the day
- Perfect for photographers and slow travelers
Why the Pingxi-line area works so well
This day trip is appealing because it’s simple: small towns, rail-line rhythm, and a vibe that’s instantly different from Taipei city. You’re here for atmosphere, photos, and the feeling of slowing down.
It’s also flexible. You can build a light half-day or a fuller day depending on your energy.
Pick your 2 stops (don’t do 5)
The biggest mistake is trying to cram in too many places. Choose two anchors, then leave buffer time for snacks and photos.
- Old-street atmosphere: Pingxi Old Street
- Sky lantern vibe: Shifen Old Street
- Waterfall scenery: Shifen Waterfall
- Cute + photos: Houtong Cat Village (easy half-day add-on)
- Heritage context: Houtong Coal Mine Ecological Park
Two easy day-trip combos
If you want a ready-made plan that’s realistic, start with one of these.
- Shifen Old Street + Shifen Waterfall
- Houtong Cat Village + Houtong coal-mine heritage stop
Comfort + etiquette notes
These towns are small and popular on weekends. Arrive earlier when you can, and move slowly. If you’re visiting cat areas, treat animals respectfully—calm behavior makes the experience better for everyone.
- Start earlier on weekends
- Keep the pace slow; this day trip is about texture
- Be respectful around cats and local residents
FAQ
Quick answers to common planning questions.
Can I combine Pingxi/Shifen with Jiufen in one day?
It’s possible, but it can feel rushed. If you care about photos and atmosphere, it’s usually better to keep the day to one ‘region’ and do Jiufen/Jinguashi on a separate day.
Is this day trip good in bad weather?
It can be, but waterfalls and trails are best when it’s not pouring. If it’s rainy, consider a lighter plan (Houtong stops) and keep outdoor walking minimal.
Keep exploring
Hand-picked next reads to make your Taipei plan smoother.
Ready to plan your next stop?
Start with a simple loop: one neighborhood stroll, one iconic sight, and one night market. Taipei rewards balance.
Tip: hours, prices, and seasonal schedules can change. When something matters (like a museum ticket or a special exhibition), check the official listing before you go.