Our 333rd entry in our digital diary is our first time visit to Shifen Old Street in New Taipei City, Taiwan.

The name Shifen translates to “Ten Portions”, because originally 10 families lived here and shared supplies in ten portions. There was a little drizzle of rain when we arrived at the old street. We were worried that we will not be able to do the famous activity, the lantern flying.

But, luckily, we arrived at the shop who sells lanterns and our lantern sets are immediately prepared. They prepared the red colored lanterns for all of us. Lanterns come in vibrant colors, each with its own meaning: red for health, yellow for wealth, blue for success, and pink for romance.

Everybody was busy writing down their own well-wishes and prayers in the sides of the lantern. It is said that when the lantern goes up, our prayers and wishes are delivered. 🙂

The tradition of releasing sky lanterns began in the Qing Dynasty as a signal: villagers would light lanterns to let those hiding in the mountains know it was safe after bandit raids. Today, it’s become a tourist ritual, where visitors write wishes before releasing lanterns along the tracks.

There was this shop guy who offered to take our photos while suggesting different poses for us before we release our own family lantern. Many sky lanterns are crafted to be eco-friendly, as traditional lanterns were leading to litter in forests and valleys. Local volunteers and residents regularly organize clean-up efforts to combat pollution from lantern debris.

The street is unique because the Pingxi Line railway tracks run right through it. Trains pass just inches from shops and stalls several times a day, creating a charming thrill for visitors. Originally built in 1918 during the Japanese colonial era, this line carried coal from Pingxi mines to other towns.

Shifen is known for its colorful street food: grilled sausages, peanut ice‑cream rolls, taro balls, bubble tea, and other Taiwanese snacks. The Old Street atmosphere includes rustic shops, traditional trinkets, and cultural souvenirs that evoke a sense of nostalgic Taiwan.

Shifen Old Street beautifully blends history, culture, and scenery—where a historic coal railway meets the poetic glow of sky lanterns, and where a stunning waterfall lies just minutes away. It’s an unforgettable destination filled with vibrant traditions and hidden stories.