A-Mei Tea House (Jiufen)
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About
A-Mei Tea House is the most iconic building in Jiufen, widely believed to be the inspiration for the bathhouse in Hayao Miyazaki's 'Spirited Away.' The multi-story wooden structure is adorned with red lanterns and overlooks the jagged coastline and the Pacific Ocean. The atmosphere is deeply nostalgic and magical, especially at dusk. The sensory experience is the ritual of a traditional tea ceremony—the smell of mountain oolong and the taste of sweet mung bean cakes—accompanied by the sound of the wind. Expert recommendation: Opt for the outdoor balcony seating for the famous view of the ocean and the lantern-lit stairs. Pro tip: It is a major tourist destination, so it is often crowded. However, the 'Tea Set' (approx. 300 TWD) is well worth the price for the experience and the refillable hot water. Visit after 6 PM when the large tour groups have departed and the lanterns are fully lit.
Highlights
- Iconic teahouse with ocean views
- Inspiration for Spirited Away
- Traditional Taiwanese tea ceremony
- Stunning evening lantern views
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Jiufen Old Street
The atmospheric mountain town of Jiufen clings to steep hillsides above the northeast coast of Taiwan, its red lantern-lit teahouses, narrow stone stairways, and misty harbor views inspiring the dreamlike animated aesthetic of Hayao Miyazaki's Spirited Away. The old street's maze of covered alleyways offers traditional Taiwanese snacks like taro balls, peanut-wrapped mochi, and fish balls alongside tea shops where guests can linger for hours watching the Pacific coastline emerge from the mountain mist. An evening visit when the lanterns are lit and the ocean breeze carries the sounds of traditional music from tea pavilions cantilevered over the cliff creates an experience of extraordinary, slightly melancholic beauty.
Houtong Cat Village
Originally a prosperous coal-mining town, Houtong has reinvented itself as a sanctuary for hundreds of well-cared-for stray cats. The village features cat-themed murals, cafes, and shops, with cats lounging on every available surface. The atmosphere is incredibly relaxed, whimsical, and heartwarming. The sensory experience is defined by the soft meows of the feline residents and the rustic charm of the old mining infrastructure. Expert recommendation: Visit the 'Houtong Coal Mine Ecological Park' right across the tracks to learn about the town's industrial history before it became a cat haven. Pro tip: Only feed the cats with the approved snacks sold in the village and do not use flash photography. The village is easily accessible via the Pingxi Line train from Ruifang. It is a perfect, low-stress stop for animal lovers and families.
Bitoujiao Trail
Often called the 'Great Wall of the Sea,' Bitoujiao Trail is a spectacular coastal hike along a ridge that offers 360-degree views of the Pacific Ocean and the jagged Northeast Coast. The trail features stone stairs that follow the contours of the mountain, leading to a lighthouse and several pavilions perched on the cliffs. The atmosphere is exhilarating and majestic. The sensory experience is dominated by the sound of crashing waves, the salty sea spray, and the dramatic green-and-blue landscape. Expert recommendation: The 'Valley of the Winds' section offers particularly stunning views of the geological formations. Pro tip: There is very little shade on the ridge, so bring plenty of water and sun protection. The trail can be reached by bus from Ruifang Station or Keelung. It is best avoided during very windy or rainy weather as the path can be slippery and exposed.
Shifen Waterfall
Known as the 'Little Niagara of Taiwan,' Shifen Waterfall is a 20-meter high horseshoe-shaped fall that is the widest in the country. Located along the scenic Pingxi rail line, the waterfall is surrounded by lush subtropical forest and several suspension bridges. The sensory experience is powerful, with the roar of the water and the cool mist that often creates rainbows on sunny days. The atmosphere is majestic and refreshing. Expert recommendation: Walk across the 'Siguang Suspension Bridge' for a great view of the river and the railway tracks. Pro tip: The waterfall is a 15-20 minute walk from Shifen Old Street. Entry to the waterfall park is free. Combine this with a visit to Shifen Old Street to release a traditional sky lantern on the train tracks.
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