Qitang Old Street and Remains of the Thirteen Levels Ruifang
A charming residential street in Ruifang, Taiwan, famous for its vibrant rainbow staircase leading to a temple with stunning sea views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & enjoy peace
Qitang Old Street and Remains of the Thirteen Levels Ruifang
Best Time
Beat the crowds & enjoy peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming residential street in Ruifang, Taiwan, famous for its vibrant rainbow staircase leading to a temple with stunning sea views.
"The rainbow staircase is the main attraction, leading to a local temple with great sea views."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs! You'll be climbing to reach the temple and enjoy the views.
🤫 Seek Out the Cats
This street is known for its friendly feline residents. Keep an eye out for them!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rainbow Staircase
Qitang Old Street
A vibrant, multi-colored staircase offering breathtaking sea views. A photographer's dream!
Hidden Feline Friends
Throughout Qitang
Keep an eye out for the many friendly cats that roam this charming old street. They add a unique, cozy vibe.
Temple and Sea Vistas
Top of the Rainbow Staircase
Reach the local temple at the top for panoramic sea views and a moment of tranquility.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Stairs!
Quiet Charm, Not Bustling Shops
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs! You'll be climbing to reach the temple and enjoy the views.
🤫 Seek Out the Cats
This street is known for its friendly feline residents. Keep an eye out for them!
She was raised in a tiny gold-mining town in Taiwan. Now it's become a tourist trap — and she's fighting for the soul of the place.
📸 Capture the Rainbow Stairs
The colorful staircase is the main draw. Go early for fewer people in your shots.
🚗 Parking Challenges
If driving, parking can be difficult and expensive. Consider public transport.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs! You'll be climbing to reach the temple and enjoy the views.
🤫 Seek Out the Cats
This street is known for its friendly feline residents. Keep an eye out for them!
📸 Capture the Rainbow Stairs
The colorful staircase is the main draw. Go early for fewer people in your shots.
🚗 Parking Challenges
If driving, parking can be difficult and expensive. Consider public transport.
🍰 Try the Tofu Pudding
A delicious dessert spot serving variations of tofu pudding is a local favorite.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Qitang Old Street to be a beautiful and tranquil spot, particularly appreciating the vibrant rainbow staircase and the scenic sea views. The presence of friendly cats adds to its charm. However, some note that it's a quiet residential area with limited shops, and the significant number of stairs might be challenging for some.
"Very beautiful and quiet with hidden cats if you can find them. I went very early in the morning so nothing was open yet, but the views and fresh air was perfect.
I will say if you don’t like climbing stairs, this will probably not be as fun of an experience as it could be. On the bright side, since it’s not busy, you can take your time."
Rachel Shiau
"A quiet town at the bottom of Teapot Mountain Trail. I recommend passing by if you’re in the area as it’s a serene area with a temple and a few restaurants. There are many cats and a delicious dessert place serving variations of tofu pudding."
Isabelle K
"The main attraction was the coloured stairway. Don't expect shops etc. like the Jiuphen Old Street! It's good to combine this walk with a visit to the nearby temple and huge statue."
Vincent Oliver
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a train from Taipei to Ruifang Station. From there, it's a short taxi ride or a bus to Qitang Old Street. Some visitors combine this with a visit to Jiufen.
Parking can be very challenging and costly, with reports of $200 NTD for just two hours. It's often recommended to use public transport or combine with other nearby attractions accessible by train.
Yes, Qitang Old Street and Jiufen are relatively close and can be visited together. Many travelers do this as part of a day trip from Taipei, often using Ruifang as a hub.
For Qitang Old Street, a taxi from Ruifang Station is convenient. If exploring further, local buses are available, but check schedules.
Yes, you can reach Ruifang Station by train, and then take a local bus or taxi to Qitang Old Street. This is often preferred over driving due to parking issues.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Qitang Old Street itself is a public area and does not require an entrance fee. You can freely explore the colorful staircase and the street.
Qitang Old Street is always accessible as it's a residential area. However, individual shops and eateries may have their own operating hours, and many are not open early in the morning.
Typically, local temples in Taiwan do not charge an admission fee for entry. Donations are usually appreciated.
Visiting very early in the morning, before most shops open, is the best way to experience the quiet charm and avoid crowds.
No booking is required for Qitang Old Street. It's an open area for exploration.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic rainbow staircase is the prime photo spot. Also, capture the sea views from the top and the charming cats that inhabit the street.
Early morning offers soft light and fewer people, ideal for capturing the staircase without crowds. Late afternoon can provide beautiful golden hour light.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on photography in public areas like Qitang Old Street. However, be respectful of residents and any religious sites like the temple.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the full staircase. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting cats. A smartphone with good low-light capabilities also works well.
Drone usage may be restricted in residential areas and near temples. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While not as bustling as Jiufen, there are a few eateries. A highly recommended spot serves delicious variations of tofu pudding.
The number of restaurants is limited. It's more of a quiet residential street with a few vendors rather than a commercial hub.
Tofu pudding is a must-try dessert mentioned by visitors. Keep an eye out for other local snacks from any open vendors.
Tofu pudding is a vegetarian option. Other food stalls might offer simple snacks, but options may be limited.
Cafes are not a prominent feature of Qitang Old Street. The focus is more on traditional snacks and local eateries.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't many dedicated kid-friendly attractions, the novelty of the colorful stairs and the peaceful environment can be enjoyable. Consider bringing snacks and water, as food options are limited. Combining this visit with a less strenuous activity nearby might be a good strategy for a balanced family day trip.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
It's a great spot to practice your photography skills, especially with the vibrant staircase and the chance to interact with local cats. You can easily combine it with other nearby attractions like Jiufen or the Thirteen Levels, making it a flexible addition to a solo itinerary.
📸 Photographers
Beyond the stairs, the panoramic sea views from the higher points provide stunning backdrops. Don't forget to look out for the resident cats, which often add a charming element to street photography. The overall serene atmosphere also lends itself to capturing candid moments and the quiet beauty of the area.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Qitang Old Street
Visitors often highlight the stunning sea views visible from the higher points of the street, especially from the temple at the top. The presence of numerous friendly cats adds to the charm, making it a delightful place for animal lovers. If you're looking for a place to relax, enjoy the scenery, and perhaps find a quiet moment away from the crowds, Qitang Old Street is an excellent choice.
It's important to manage expectations: this isn't a place for extensive shopping or a wide variety of dining options. Instead, focus on the visual appeal of the colorful stairs, the panoramic ocean vistas, and the laid-back atmosphere. The climb can be strenuous, so comfortable footwear is essential for fully appreciating the experience.
Exploring the Remains of the Thirteen Levels
While the site itself is largely ruins, its historical significance as a remnant of Taiwan's mining past is undeniable. It stands as a testament to the industrial era and the extraction of precious metals that once fueled the region's economy. The sheer scale of the structure, even in its dilapidated state, is impressive and offers a glimpse into the industrial might of the past.
Visitors can view the Thirteen Levels from a distance, often as part of a tour that includes Jiufen and Qitang. While direct access inside the ruins might be limited for safety reasons, the exterior views are dramatic and photogenic, especially against the coastal backdrop. It's a site that sparks imagination about the lives of the workers and the industrial processes that took place here decades ago.
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