When most visitors think of Jiufen Old Street, they envision it as the inspiration for Spirited Away's Yubaba Bathhouse, a paradise for affordable treats like taro balls and herb rice cakes. However, they often overlook the most precious cultural heritage of this gold mining mountain town—the tea house culture.
The reason Jiufen has managed to preserve traditional tea houses that remain operational today lies in its unique geographical location and history. The narrow alleyways built into the mountainsides, with tea houses scattered among the residences, allow visitors to experience the mountain town's stories of time over a cup of hot tea, just like the miners of old. In recent years, as outbound tourists from China have exceeded 175 million, Jiufen tea houses have welcomed new opportunities—many international visitors have come to realize that, compared to the bathhouse scenes from the deepest layers of the earth, the experience of ascending to a tea house to overlook the old street while savoring local Oolong tea is the most memorable aspect of Jiufen.
Distinctive Features of Jiufen Tea Houses
What sets Jiufen tea houses apart from flatland tea shops is the fusion of "scenery" and "history." Most long-established tea houses have been in operation for over 20 years, using local teas (especially Four Seasons and Qingxin Oolong from the Ruifang area), and place great importance on the selection of tea ware. Many tea houses still retain antique wooden furniture and warm amber lighting, creating an atmosphere where time seems to stand still. Additionally, Jiufen tea houses are relatively affordable—a tea beverage with tea snacks averages NT$200-500, far lower than tea houses of comparable quality in Taipei City.
Recommended Locations
1. A-Mei Tea House
Address: No. 143, Jishan Street, Ruifang District, New Taipei City
This is the most iconic tea house in Jiufen. With red lanterns, wooden staircase, and elevator design (convenient for elderly visitors), the windows on the three-story building offer a panoramic view of the entire old street. The tea menu features mainly Tieguanyin and Dongding Oolong, with tea snacks including almond tofu, red bean glutinous rice balls, and other traditional treats. The most popular option is the "Old Street View Set" (NT$380-480 per person), which includes a pot of tea and two tea snacks. Operating hours are longer (09:30-22:00), allowing visitors to enjoy the misty mountain town night views even in the evening.
2. Tea House
Address: No. 7, Shunlun Street, Ruifang District, New Taipei City
A tranquil tea house hidden deep within the old street's alleyways, featuring rustic interior decor with walls adorned with vintage tea cans. The owner personally selects and brews the tea, providing detailed explanations of each pot's tea source and production process. This venue is ideal for visitors who genuinely want to deepen their understanding of Taiwanese tea. Average spending is approximately NT$250-350, serving from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
3. Yue Le Tea Stall
Address: No. 134, Jishan Street, Ruifang District, New Taipei City
A relatively younger tea house (operating for about 15 years), blending traditional and modern design styles. Its specialty is the "tea pairing" service, where seasonal specialty teas are recommended based on guests' tastes, paired with local handmade treats (such as sesame cake and mung bean cake). The window seats offer open views, perfect for photos and social media posts. Average spending is NT$300-450, operating from 09:30 to 21:30.
4. Zhuxuan Tea House
Address: No. 101, Jishan Street, Ruifang District, New Taipei City
A smaller, family-run tea house specializing in Dancong tea, with the operator having deep expertise in Chaozhou Oolong. They offer rare aged tea tasting experiences, making it suitable for tea collectors or visitors looking to elevate their tea appreciation. Average spending is NT$280-380, with the quieter tea-tasting golden hours being 2:00-6:00 PM on weekdays.
Practical Information
Getting There: From Taipei, take the Taiwan Railway to Ruifang Station (approximately 40 minutes), then transfer to a Ruifang bus to Jiufen (approximately 15 minutes) and get off at the Jiufen Old Street stop. Those driving can park at the parking lot and walk up the mountain.
Operating Hours: Most tea houses operate between 09:00-22:00, though some family-run tea houses may close earlier (around 19:00-20:00). It is recommended to verify in advance.
Payment Methods: Both cash and mobile payments (LINE Pay, Apple Pay) are accepted, though some long-established establishments still prefer cash. Most tea houses use either "per-person pricing" or "tea snacks charged separately"—be sure to clarify when ordering tea.
Best Visiting Seasons: Spring tea (March-May) and autumn tea (September-November) are the tea-tasting seasons, when tea quality is at its best. Summer (June-August) sees many visitors but the tea quality is relatively lower, while winter is quieter, suitable for visitors seeking a peaceful tea-tasting experience.
Travel Tips
— Allow Sufficient Time: Tea tasting should not be rushed. It is recommended to spend 45 minutes to an hour at each tea house, taking time to savor the rhythm of the old street.
— Avoid Peak Hours: Weekends and national holiday afternoons from 1:00-5:00 PM are the busiest times. It is recommended to visit on weekdays or head up the mountain right when doors open at 9:30 AM. With increasing Chinese tourists, tea house seats are often full—early arrivals get the best spots.
— Bring Cash: Although payment options are diverse, ATMs are scarce on the old street. It is recommended to prepare sufficient cash in advance.
Tea Ordering Etiquette: In Taiwanese tea houses, guests tap the teacup lid three times to express "thanks" to the tea-serving master. This is basic etiquette—worth learning.
— Buy Tea to Take Home: Many tea houses also sell tea leaves. If you enjoy a tea after tasting, you can purchase it to take home and brew yourself. Tea prices in Jiufen are 15-25% cheaper than in Taipei City, making them excellent souvenir options.
