Shifen Waterfall – Discover Taiwan’s little Niagara Falls
May 04, 2018
The 40-metre wide Shifen Waterfall is the most well-known cascading waterfall in Taiwan, and it is nicknamed as the “Little Niagara of Taiwan” due to its horseshoe shape and its powerful flow. If you’re one who likes chasing waterfalls, I’d say skip the rest and just head directly to the Shifen Waterfall. After exploring a few waterfalls and getting feedbacks from a number of Taiwanese drivers, I can vouch that the Shifen Waterfall is the most scenic waterfall in Taiwan.
After visiting the Shifen Waterfall, you can drop by Shifen Old Street for a glimpse of the old railroad town which still retains the rustic charm. The railroad was originally built to transport coal, and has now become one of the most popular on the Pingxi rail-line. There is an abundance of local food and souvenir shops which attract huge crowds especially on weekends. You can also make a wish and release a sky lantern along Shifen Old Street.
It is not difficult to get from Taipei to Shifen. Catch the MRT to Taipei Main Station, and from there, you can board any North-bound train (except Keelung-bound train) to Ruifang. A ticket costs 78TWD. Upon arriving in Ruifang, transfer to the Pingxi line and ride all the way to the end. You should buy a day pass for the separate Pingxi line which costs 52TWD. The Pingxi line can get very crowded and you may have to stand, but don’t let the rowdy crowd bother you – try to look out the window and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
From Shifen Old Street, you can either rent an electric bicycle or walk to the Shifen Waterfall. I recommend the latter because the walk to the waterfall allows you to pass by two suspension bridges, a gorgeous river set against the backdrop of lush green mountains, and numerous photo spots.
Visiting the Shifen Old Street and the Shifen Waterfall could be a great half-day trip out of Taipei city. If you have the time, you shouldn’t give the waterfall a miss.
Shifen Waterfall (十分大瀑布)
Address: No.11, Gankeng, Pingxi District, New Taipei City 226, Taiwan (ROC)
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Hi! I’m Alexis!
I’m a true-blue Singaporean who loves travel, photography, and food. I left my career in accountancy in 2014 to become a globetrotter. Since then, I’ve travelled to over 20 countries and have checked many adventures off my bucket list. I hope my readers will benefit from my first hand perspective of the trips.
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