The Golden Waterfall sits on Jinshui Road in Ruifang District, New Taipei City, between Jiufen and Taiwan's northeast coast. Its water runs over rocks stained gold and orange by minerals from the old mining area of Jinguashi, which stand out against the green mountains behind. The falls are easy to reach from the road and need no hike, so they work as a short stop on a day trip. Plan a few minutes for the viewpoint, and more if you walk the trail down from Jiufen.
Where the gold color comes from
The falls drop through Jinguashi, a former gold and copper mining area. Rain falling here seeps into old mine shafts through cracks in the rock. Underground it reacts with minerals, and the water that flows out carries the metals that color the rocks.
The water then tumbles down the slope in several layers, shaped by the uneven ground. Downstream it meets the sea at the Yin Yang Sea, where the orange stream mixes with the bay.
Getting there
Buses 826, 856 and 891 run to the area, and frequent public buses stop near the falls. The Jinshui Romantic Shuttle 891 travels between Jinguashi and Shuinandong.
By car, park at the Golden Waterfall parking lot, then cross the road to the viewpoint. A small lot sits right beside the viewpoint, and free and paid parking lots are both listed for the site.
You can also walk from Jiufen Old Street along the trails, which takes about an hour. From the falls, take the bus back.
What to see around the falls
The Gold Ecological Park in Jinguashi is nearby. It has a gold museum with tunnels, hiking routes and ocean views. The Gold Museum is also in the area.
The main road from Jinguashi to the coast, County Road 34, passes the falls on its way down to Shuinandong. Along the way you pass the abandoned Thirteen Levels copper refinery, a large complex covered in vegetation. The coastal community of Shuinandong grew up around the refinery.
The falls are also a popular spot for wedding photographs.
Perguntas frequentes
Is the Golden Waterfall open all the time?
The outdoor site is listed as open 24 hours. Visits are most rewarding after rain or on a cloudy day, when the color looks most vivid.
Do I need to hike to see the Golden Waterfall?
No. The falls are right beside the road, so you can see them from the viewpoint without a hike. A walk from Jiufen Old Street along the trails takes about an hour if you prefer to walk.
How do I get there by bus?
Buses 826, 856 and 891 run to the area, and frequent public buses stop nearby. The Jinshui Romantic Shuttle 891 travels between Jinguashi and Shuinandong.
Is there parking at the Golden Waterfall?
Yes. A small parking area sits next to the viewpoint and fills quickly. Free and paid parking lots are both listed for the site.
