Jiufen

Some three hundred stone steps climb the steep hillside, and at nightfall glowing red lanterns are often likened to the dreamlike world of Spirited Away.

Built during the Japanese colonial era at the height of the gold rush, this lavish theater bears witness to Taiwan's early mining boom.

Exhibits include a 220-kilogram block of pure gold, alongside a real mine tunnel and the Japanese-style Crown Prince Chalet.

Jiufen's busiest lane, known locally as the dark street, smells of grass rice cakes and taro balls while overlooking the sea toward Keelung Islet.

In 1893, the Xiaojingua outcrop gold vein was discovered in the Jiufen area, opening the documented history of the Jingu mining district.