The coal mining industry is an important part of the unforgettable history of the development of Taiwan’s northeastern area. This guided tour gives you an insight into Taiwan’s mining history and how it affects people’s lives today.
Follow the story of the “black gold” and explore the unique charms of northeastern Taiwan, you will learn how these small towns experienced a period of economic prosperity before falling into disrepair and decrepitude, and then revived and turned into world-renowned tourist destinations.
From the mine ground, mine cart, gold panning to the preserved artifacts in the museum, though this day tour you will have a deeper understanding of the history and culture related to Taiwan’s mining industry. Additionally, you will have an opportunity to try “Miner’s Bento in a Tin Box (boxed lunch)”, which allows you to fully experience the lifestyle in the old times in a different way.
Pickup included
The first stop of is Xinpingxi Taiwan Coal Mine Museum. Here you cannot only experience the simulated mining tunnel, visit the historic relics, take a look at the preserved artifacts related to the mining industry, but also take a ride on “One-eyed Little Monk”, which is the only remaining electric coal mine train that is still in operation in Taiwan. Because of its unique appearance and background, it has become a must-see that visitors won’t miss out on.
Next, head off to Gold Museum, which is the first museum aims to preserve the mining culture in Taiwan. In addition to the permanent exhibition, including the famous 999 pure gold bar weighting 220kg, here you can also experience gold panning with your own hands, walk into “Benshan No.5 Tunnel”—a mining scene built above the actual former mining tunnel, and visit “Jinguashi Crown Prince Chalet” and its garden, which were built during the period under Japanese rule.
After the museum, depart to Jiufen, a mountain village which was once prosperous during the gold rush in 1940s. With the closure of the gold mine in 1960s, the glory has gone. However, Jiufen still has a lot more to offer and stories to tell. Its unique historical background, the melancholic and emotional atmosphere attracted enormous global attention, making it the most popular destination in northeastern Taiwan. Since you are in Jiufen, it’s recommended to have a cup of tea at a teahouse, where you can appreciate the picturesque scenery, and the freshly brewed tea at the same time. Besides the teahouses, here you can also tastes various local foods and buy souvenirs. If you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss the traditional Jiufen dessert—Taro Ball!
Choose to be picked up from a list of locations
Pick-up and drop-off service is only available at a hotel or metro station in downtown Taipei City. Please wait in the hotel lobby 10 minutes before your scheduled pickup time. If the hotel lobby is located on the upper level, your tour guide will be waiting for you on the ground level with the tour operator's logo flag (EDISON TOURS).
Please present your e-voucher or printed voucher to your tour guide directly.