Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Ruifang, New Taipei City, Qingfang Homestay (清芳民宿-瑞芳車站) is the perfect home base for exploring northeast Taiwan’s dramatic coast, historic gold-mining towns, and winding mountain trails. Steps from Ruifang Train Station, this cozy, family-run guesthouse balances warm hospitality and unbeatable convenience, ideal for solo travelers, couples, and small families looking to escape Taipei’s busy city center for a day or two of coastal adventure.

Hotel Overview

Qingfang Homestay is located at No. 14, Alley 30, Minsheng Street, Ruifang District, just a three-minute walk from Ruifang Train Station, the main transport hub for Jiufen, Jinguashi, and the northeast coast. All rooms are non-smoking, soundproofed, and fitted with air conditioning, keycard access, 24/7 security monitoring, and free WiFi across the entire property. In-room amenities include flat-screen cable TVs, bedside charging outlets, clothes hangers and drying racks, and full en-suite bathrooms with a standing shower, free toiletries, a hairdryer, towels, and slippers. Shared spaces include a communal kitchen with a refrigerator and cleaning supplies, and a lounge area with a work desk. The homestay offers daily housekeeping, free luggage storage, and a dedicated tourism advice desk, and staff speak both English and Mandarin for easy communication. Note that there is no on-site parking, so visitors arriving by car should use public parking lots near the train station, a five-minute walk away.

Local Attractions

Three unmissable spots are easily accessible from Qingfang Homestay:

• Jiufen Old Street: A 15-minute bus ride from Ruifang Station, this atmospheric mountain-side village is famous for its narrow stone lanes, traditional teahouses, and panoramic views of the East China Sea. Don’t miss sampling taro balls and beef jerky from street vendors, or visit the iconic Amei Teahouse, said to inspire Studio Ghibli’s *Spirited Away*.
• Jinguashi Gold Museum: Just 10 minutes by bus from Jiufen, this open-air museum preserves the legacy of Taiwan’s 19th-century gold rush. Tour the historic Crown Mine Chalet, pan for real gold in the park’s creek, and visit the 220-tonne pure gold brick for a photo op.
• Shuinandong Smelter: A short walk from the Gold Museum, this dramatic coastal ruin features a striking 100-step “Golden Waterfall” dyed amber by mineral deposits, and the iconic hidden bay of Yin-Yang Sea, where the contrast between golden mineral runoff and deep blue sea creates a one-of-a-kind natural pattern.

Travel Tips

Book your stay in advance during weekends and Chinese national holidays, when Jiufen and Ruifang draw large crowds of domestic and international tourists. If you’re arriving by public transport, take the TRA Yilan line from Taipei Main Station directly to Ruifang, a 40-minute ride that drops you steps from the homestay. Pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring Jiufen’s hilly lanes and coastal trails, and bring a light jacket even in summer, as the northeast coast often sees cool sea breezes and afternoon fog. Stop by the Ruifang Night Market, a five-minute walk from Qingfang Homestay, to try local specialties like oyster omelets and braised pork rice before heading out for your day of adventures.