Jiufen & Jinguashi

Clinging to rainswept hillsides overlooking the sea, the former mining towns of Jiufen (九份; Jiǔfèn) and Jinguashi (金瓜石; Jīnguāshí) serve up a captivating mix of yesteryear charm, industrial heritage, whimsical tea houses and enough snacks to feed half the country. Which is about how many tourists squeeze and shuffle their way along narrow Jishan Street, Jiufen's main drag, famous for its snack vendors, on any given weekend.