Jiufen is undeniably magical by day—but by night, it transforms into something utterly otherworldly. As the sun sets, glowing red lanterns line the narrow alleyways, casting a warm, nostalgic glow over the historic mountain town. The combination of mist, hillside views, and soft lighting evokes a cinematic quality that has inspired everything from local legends to animated films. Whether you're here for the scenery, tea, or a quiet drink, Jiufen’s after-dark atmosphere is an experience in itself.

Views That Glow in the Dark

If you’re chasing the best night views Jiufen has to offer, three iconic locations top the list:

• Kaicheng Temple (開成殿): Also known as the Jade Emperor Temple, this sacred site sits at one of Jiufen’s highest points. The spacious platform in front of the temple is beloved by photographers for its panoramic nighttime view of Jiufen's twinkling lights. It's a romantic spot perfect for a quiet moment above the bustle.

• Remains of the Thirteen Levels (十三層遺址): Once the region's largest ore sorting facility, this historical site lights up from 18:00 to 21:00 every evening. Viewed from the Shuijinjiu parking area or the nearby Changren Community viewpoint, it resembles a floating “Laputa”-like castle in the night—a mysterious and photogenic wonder.

• Keelung Mountain (基隆山): Standing 588 meters tall, Keelung Mountain rewards those who hike its stair-filled trails with incredible vistas. Along the route, three observation decks and a pavilion offer golden-hour and twilight views of Jiufen glowing below—an unforgettable sight.

  

   

Cozy Cafés and Quiet Bars

For those looking to take a break from the crowds, About Café is a local favorite, located in Shuinangdong (水湳洞) near the Remains of Thirteen Levels. Tucked away in a quiet alley, it’s known for its delicious offerings, good coffee, and panoramic views. Just a few steps away, Nexttothewaterfall bar opens until 11:30 pm, providing a tranquil view next to the waterfall and the soothing sounds of nature. These quiet hideaways, along with a few other low-key bars and teahouses that stay open until around 8:30 pm, are ideal for winding down with a glass of wine, a craft beer, or a pot of local oolong tea. These hidden gems offer a relaxing vantage point from which to enjoy Jiufen’s quieter side.

Culture After Dark: Guided Night Tours

Want to go deeper? Consider joining a cultural night tour that explores Jiufen's lesser-known stories and alleyways. These tours often highlight the town’s mining history, Japanese-era architecture, and hidden temples—all cloaked in the ambiance of nighttime. Some tours even include lantern-lit walks and local storytelling that deepen the emotional resonance of the experience.

Nighttime in Jiufen offers something more than sightseeing—it’s an invitation to slow down, take in the atmosphere, and savor a side of Taiwan that’s rich with mood and memory. Whether you’re admiring the glowing lanterns, sipping tea in a quiet café, or discovering history by moonlight, Jiufen at night is not to be missed.

Ready to experience Jiufen’s enchanting evening glow for yourself? Book your Jiufen and Pingxi Day Tour with MyTaiwanTour—a seamless, expertly guided trip that lets you explore Jiufen by day and fall under its spell by night. And if you're looking to dive even deeper into Taiwan's scenic gems, consider the Taiwan's Top Three 5 Day Private Tour (Classic)—a flexible and premium journey through Jiufen, Sun Moon Lake, and Alishan.