Take the train from Taipei Main Station to Ruifang, then transfer from Ruifang Station to Shifen. Once you arrive, you’ll first reach Shifen Old Street. Walk straight along the old street, then open Google Maps and search for “Shifen Visitor Center.” After arriving at the visitor center, you’ll need to walk another 15 minutes to reach Shifen Waterfall. Didn’t expect to see such a breathtaking waterfall in Taiwan… The sound of the rushing water, the mist, the whole atmosphere—it honestly feels a bit unreal. Turns out you don’t have to travel far to be deeply amazed by nature. The usual route most people take is packed with tourists. This time, I took a different path with barely anyone around. It’s much more comfortable and peaceful to walk (fewer stairs and no need to cross a bridge). But it does take about 15–20 minutes of walking starting from Shifen Visitor Center.
Shifen Falls
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Shifen Falls
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Shifen Falls famous?
Shifen Falls is known as the 'Little Niagara of Taiwan' due to its 40-meter-wide horseshoe-shaped curtain, making it the widest waterfall in Taiwan. It has become one of Taiwan's most photographed natural landmarks and is easily accessible from Taipei.
Can you swim at Shifen Falls?
No. Swimming is not permitted at Shifen Falls. The area is designated for viewing only. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Shifen Falls?
Dogs are generally allowed on-leash in the Shifen Waterfall Scenic Area, but confirm current pet policies before visiting. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Shifen Falls free? Do you need a permit?
Free entry to Shifen Waterfall Scenic Area. No permit required. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Shifen Falls?
Paid parking is available near the entrance to Shifen Waterfall Scenic Area. From the parking area, it is approximately a 15-20 minute walk to the waterfall viewing platform. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Shifen Falls?
About 1.5 km / 0.9 mi return from the main entrance/parking area to the waterfall viewing platforms via paved walkways. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Shifen Falls hike difficulty
Easy. The trail consists of well-maintained paved paths and boardwalks with minimal elevation gain, suitable for most visitors. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Shifen Falls?
Year-round access, but spring (March–May) and after typhoon season (September–October) offer fuller flow and lush greenery. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Shifen Falls
From the parking area, follow the paved pathway downhill through the Shifen Waterfall Scenic Area entrance. The trail descends gradually through forest via steps and boardwalks. Multiple viewing platforms offer different perspectives of the falls, including a suspension bridge viewpoint. The lower platform provides the closest view of the horseshoe-shaped curtain of water.
Shifen Falls official website
Attractions near Shifen Falls
- •Shifen Old Street – charming railway-side street famous for releasing sky lanterns
- •Shifen Railway Station – historic station where trains pass through the old street market
- •Jingtong Old Street – picturesque mining village with wooden buildings and bamboo wish cards
- •Pingxi Sky Lantern Square – popular spot for launching traditional sky lanterns year-round
- •Shiding Thousand Island Lake – scenic tea plantation viewpoint with emerald reservoir views
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
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