Perched on a steep mountainside overlooking the ocean in Jiufen 九份, A-Mei Tea House 阿妹茶樓 is a place steeped in history and charm. This photogenic spot in the outskirts of Taipei offers a set of tea and sweets for just 300 NTD, but beware – it can get quite crowded on weekends, so you may have to wait to get in. However, the experience is well worth it as you can learn how to make traditional Taiwanese tea while enjoying a breathtaking view of the ocean on a clear day.
Jiufen, once a bustling town during the gold mining era, fell into obscurity until director Hou Hsiao-Hsien brought it back to life with his groundbreaking film A City of Sadness. This film not only shed light on Taiwan’s past oppression but also put Jiufen back on the map as a unique tourist destination. Today, the town’s old streets are bustling with visitors, and its tea houses offer some of the most picturesque views in all of Taiwan.
Despite the unpredictable weather in Jiufen, visitors are guaranteed a memorable experience – whether it’s gazing at the stunning coastal views or getting lost in the enchanting foggy mountain alleyways. So, grab your camera and get ready to explore this hidden gem in Northern Taiwan!
A-Mei Tea House 阿妹茶樓
Ruifang District 瑞芳區
224 Shuqi Road
New Taipei City, Taiwan
photos by Joe Sarrubbo
