Pingxi

Introducing Pingxi

Pingxi District is a mountainous district within New Taipei City, Taiwan, and is the least populated district in the city. The annual sky lantern festival after the Lunar New Year is one of Pingxi's most celebrated events.

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Most Popular FAQs for Pingxi

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Pingxi is a historic district in New Taipei known for its coal-mining heritage and picturesque mountain villages. It has cultural significance due to its sky lantern tradition, which attracts thousands of tourists and symbolizes hope and prosperity.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

• Located in northeastern Taiwan, New Taipei City, along the Pingxi mountain region.
• Accessible via Taiwan Railways Pingxi Line from Ruifang Station.
• Buses and taxis connect villages along the Pingxi Line; walking is recommended within each village.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• The Pingxi Line and villages are open daily, 24 hours; shops and attractions operate mostly 9:00–18:00.
• Best time to visit is autumn and winter (October–February) for clear skies and lantern festivals.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

• No entrance fee for villages, railway walking paths, or Shifen Waterfall.
• Pingxi Line train tickets cost around 50–100 TWD per segment and can be bought at stations or online for the festival season.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For regular train travel, advance booking is not necessary. During the Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival, book train tickets at least a few weeks ahead to ensure availability.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

1–2 full days to explore multiple villages, walk the railway, visit waterfalls, and participate in lantern activities.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Shifen Waterfall – natural scenic spot.
• Shifen Old Street – sky lantern release and street food.
• Jingtong Village – historic coal-mining town and heritage museum.
• Pingxi Station and nearby villages – cultural walks and lanterns.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin and limited English, mainly during festival periods; self-guided audio apps are available for major villages.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Shifen Waterfall viewpoint.
• Railway bridges and tracks along the Pingxi Line.
• Village streets during sky lantern release events.
• Mountain viewpoints overlooking the Pingxi villages.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at Ruifang Station → take the Pingxi Line to Shifen → explore Shifen Old Street and waterfall → continue to Pingxi Village → visit Jingtong Village → return via train or bus.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

• Nighttime sky lantern releases are popular in Shifen.
• Special tours during the Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival with organized lantern lighting events.
• Evening market strolls in Shifen for local food and souvenirs.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

• Weekends and holidays are very crowded, especially around Shifen and the waterfall.
• Weekdays offer a quieter experience.
• Peak festival season (Chinese New Year) attracts large crowds.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Public restrooms at major train stations and tourist sites.
• Street food stalls and small restaurants along old streets.
• Souvenir shops and snack vendors in each village.
• Limited benches and rest areas along walking routes.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Most villages and the waterfall area are moderately accessible; steep paths and stairs may limit access for elderly or disabled visitors. Children-friendly, but supervision recommended near tracks and water.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is recommended for street vendors and small shops; major restaurants and hotels accept cards or mobile payments.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Shifen Old Street for local snacks, noodles, and sweet treats.
• Cafes near Pingxi Station offering tea and light meals.
• Small restaurants serving traditional Taiwanese food in Jingtong and Pingxi.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at some temples and small eateries; halal options are limited.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Guesthouses and B&Bs in Shifen and Pingxi villages.
• Small boutique hotels near Jingtong Village.
• Hostels in nearby Ruifang District for budget travelers.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Jiufen Old Street – historic mountain town with tea houses.
• Keelung Coastal Scenic Area – beaches and harbor views.
• Gold Museum and historic mining sites in nearby Ruifang District.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Sky lanterns for home decoration or festival use.
• Local snacks and candies from Shifen and Pingxi.
• Handcrafted goods and small keepsakes from traditional villages.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Return to Ruifang Station and transfer to Taipei or Keelung by train or bus.
• Taxis or scooters for nearby sightseeing.
• Tour buses connecting to Jiufen, Keelung, or northern Taiwan attractions.