Origin of Pingxi Sky Lantern
The fifteenth day of the lunar calendar marks Taiwan's Lantern Festival, with various celebrations across the island. Among them, the Pingxi Sky Lantern is one of the most famous events, both domestically and internationally, making it one of Taiwan's most representative cultural festivals.
During the Lantern Festival, thousands of tourists gather in Pingxi to release sky lanterns inscribed with their wishes, creating a spectacular sight that has been rated as the "second-largest New Year’s celebration in the world" by the Discovery Channel.
But do you know the origin of the Pingxi Sky Lantern? There are many stories, but two are the most well-known:
The first legend suggests that sky lanterns originated during the Three Kingdoms era, invented by Zhuge Liang (Kongming), which is why sky lanterns are also called "Kongming lanterns."
It is said that Zhuge Liang used the principle of hot air rising to create sky lanterns to confuse Sima Yi's army, sending incorrect astrological messages.
This practice spread among the people, evolving into a way to make wishes to the heavens, symbolizing the transmission of one's wishes to the celestial realm, seeking blessings during the Lantern Festival by releasing sky lanterns to pray for good fortune.
The second story comes from local oral traditions in Pingxi. The history of the pingxi sky lantern dates back to the Daoguang period of the Qing Dynasty when bandits roamed the area, forcing residents to hide in the mountains. At night, the men left behind would release sky lanterns to signal that it was safe for the villagers to return. Over time, this custom evolved into a Lantern Festival activity to ensure peace and good fortune.
Nowadays, Pingxi Sky Lantern is no longer limited to the Lantern Festival. As long as the weather permits, sky lanterns can be released in Pingxi year-round, making it a must-try experience for international tourists visiting Taiwan.
So, with the unique charm and beauty of Pingxi Sky Lantern, how could you miss it?
Pingxi Sky Lantern Schedule
While the theme, route, and release time of the Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival 2025 have not been officially announced, it is likely to follow similar themes and features as in 2024. For instance, the 2024 festival was themed around "Dragons," with four giant 20-foot lanterns representing Taiwan, the world, the dragon, and the tiger, symbolizing the auspicious meanings for the new year.
It is recommended to stay tuned to official announcements for the 2025 Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival dates.
Pingxi Sky Lantern Location
As for the location of the 2025 Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival, it is usually held at two main venues: Pingxi Junior High School and Shifen Square. It is expected that the venue and lantern routes for 2025 will reference those of 2024.
Of course, if you wish to release a sky lantern outside the Lantern Festival, there are many shops selling sky lanterns year-round in both Pingxi and Shifen.
Pingxi Sky Lantern Purchase and Release Guide
Meaning of Pingxi Sky Lantern Colors
It is said that different colors of Pingxi Sky Lanterns carry special meanings and symbols. For example, red symbolizes health and safety, pink represents love and romance, white signifies a bright future, yellow brings financial fortune, and blue stands for career success.
You can write your wishes on different colored lanterns to pray for good fortune and the realization of your dreams.
Of course, if you are unsure which color to choose, some shops offer multi-colored lanterns, combining four colors into one so you can make four wishes at once.
Recommended Pingxi Sky Lantern Shops
There are many Pingxi Sky Lantern shops, but how do you choose the best one?
Jixiang Sky Lantern
Jixiang Sky Lantern claims to be the largest sky lantern shop in Shifen and even offers parking, which is very convenient for visitors arriving by car. They offer a wide range of lantern colors, and the shop staff provides detailed explanations of the lantern types. They also help take photos and videos during the release, and the staff is fluent in multiple languages, making it a popular choice in the Shifen area.
- Address: No. 94, Shifen Street, Pingxi District, New Taipei City
- Business Hours: 09:00-19:00
Meiguo Sky Lantern
The owner of Meiguo Sky Lantern is very friendly and helpful, offering to take photos and videos for customers. The staff also provides multilingual explanations about the release of sky lanterns, making it a suitable choice if you have international visitors.
- Address: No. 101, Shifen Street, Pingxi District, New Taipei City
- Business Hours: 08:30-19:00
Pingxi Sky Lantern Prices
The prices of sky lanterns vary depending on their size and color. Typically, sky lanterns range from NT$150 to NT$300, while eco-friendly lanterns cost around NT$300-400 each. However, the actual price of Pingxi sky lanterns is subject to the shop's listing, so it's recommended to confirm the price before purchasing to avoid disputes.
Steps for Releasing a Sky Lantern
The process of releasing a sky lantern is very simple. First, you can go to a shop and choose your favorite lantern color, then write your wishes on all sides of the lantern. Next, ask the staff to help ignite the fuel inside the lantern. Once the hot air fills the entire lantern, you can gently release it, allowing the lantern, carrying your wishes, to float into the sky. If you'd like to record this beautiful moment, the shop staff can assist you with photos or videos. If you're unsure about anything during the process, feel free to ask for help. Therefore, choosing a shop with good service when visiting Pingxi to release a lantern is essential.
Best Time to Release a Sky Lantern
Although you can release sky lanterns in Pingxi year-round, the Lantern Festival is the most crowded and grand time for the Pingxi sky lantern event.
During the Pingxi sky lantern event, you have the chance to witness thousands of lanterns being released into the sky simultaneously, creating a spectacular and romantic scene. However, if you prefer to avoid the crowds, you can visit Pingxi on a weekday to enjoy the experience of releasing your lantern in peace.
How to Collect Sky Lantern Tickets
During the event, limited sky lantern release tickets will be issued. However, the collection time and location will depend on the official announcements. For information about collecting tickets for the 2025 sky lantern event, it is recommended to follow official website updates.
How to Get to Pingxi sky lantern
Image Source: Department of Information and Tourism, Taipei City Government
So, how should you arrange transportations for the Pingxi sky lantern? Are there any traffic controls?
Charter Service
Worried about wasting time on transfers or dealing with parking problems? Choose Tripool's 2-12 hour charter or one-way transfer service! Our professional drivers will take you directly to Pingxi from your specified location. Book now to get an early bird discount!
By Train
- Take a TRA train to Taipei Station → transfer to a TRA train to Ruifang Station or Badu Station → then take a TRA train to Pingxi Station.
- Take a TRA train to Taipei Station → transfer to the Taipei MRT to Muzha Station → then take Taipei Bus 795 (to Pingxi) and get off at Pingxi Station.
By Bus
- You can take Taipei Bus 795 (to Pingxi) and get off at Pingxi Station.
By Shuttle Bus
You might wonder, is there a shuttle bus service to Pingxi sky lantern? The answer is yes. According to previous years and the 2024 event, the organizers provided paid shuttle bus services between Pingxi Junior High School and Shifen Square to manage the crowd. As the 2025 event details have yet to be announced, it's recommended to keep an eye on official updates.
Driving
- Take the Xizhi System Interchange → National Highway No.3 → National Highway No.5, Shiding Interchange → County Road 106A → County Road 106 to Pingxi.
- Take the Nangang System Interchange → National Highway 5 → Shiding Interchange → County Road 106A → County Road 106 to Pingxi.
- Head towards Yilan → Shiding Interchange → County Road 106 to Pingxi.
pingxi sky lantern Parking Information
Some shops offer free parking when you purchase a sky lantern, such as Jixiang Sky Lantern.
Pingxi sky lantern Traffic Control
Since the exact date of the 2025 Pingxi sky lantern Festival has yet to be announced by the New Taipei City Government, it is recommended to follow the official website of the New Taipei City Tourism and Travel Department for updates towards the end of 2024 or early 2025.
Recommended Attractions Around Pingxi sky lantern
Shifen Old Street
Image source: Taipei City Government Tourism and Communications Bureau
If you're visiting Pingxi, the lively atmosphere of Shifen Old Street is not to be missed. Its nostalgic ambiance makes it a must-see attraction.
Here, you can experience the unique joy of watching trains pass right in front of the shops, which is rarely seen in other old streets in Taiwan.
As the birthplace of the sky lantern tradition, Shifen Old Street is home to many shops selling lanterns and traditional crafts, as well as unique street food exclusive to the area, such as "Rice noodle soup under the banyan tree," which features sweet broth and chewy rice noodles under a large banyan tree next to the railway, or "Liugo BBQ Chicken Wing Rice," a crispy-skinned, boneless chicken wing paired with ham and egg fried rice. There's also the famous "Baogui Stinky Tofu" made with homemade pickled cabbage, and if you're craving a dessert, try the peanut-flavored, creamy "Peanut Ice Cream Rolls." For a traditional Taiwanese souvenir, the 70-year-old "Zhou Wanzhen Pastry Shop" is also worth a visit.
So, what makes Shifen Old Street so attractive? Its unique combination of railway charm, sky lantern culture, mining history, and natural surroundings creates a fascinating blend of old and new, making it one of Taiwan's most distinctive old streets, second only to Jiufen Old Street in fame among international tourists.
- Address: No. 81, Shifen Street, Pingxi District, New Taipei City
- Hours: Open 24 hours (Store hours vary by shops)
- Admission: Free
- Transportation: Take the TRA train to Badu Station or Ruifang Station, then transfer to the Pingxi Line and get off at Shifen Station.
Shifen Waterfall
Image source: New Taipei City Government Tourism Bureau
Located in New Taipei City’s Pingxi District, Shifen Waterfall stands about 40 meters tall and is famous for its grandeur, often referred to as "Taiwan's Niagara Falls." It is a must-visit for travelers heading to Jiufen and Shifen areas.
On sunny days, the sunlight reflects off the mist, creating beautiful rainbows, making it an excellent choice for visitors who wish to experience natural beauty after releasing a sky lantern in Pingxi.
- Address: No. 10, Qian Keng, Pingxi District, New Taipei City
- Hours: Open year-round (closed on Lunar New Year's Eve)
- Summer hours (June to September): 09:00-18:00, last entry at 17:30
- Winter hours (October to May): 09:00-17:00, last entry at 16:30
- Admission: Free
- Transportation: Take Taipei MRT Wenhu Line to Muzha Station → transfer to Taipei Bus Route 795 and get off at Shifen Visitor Center Station, then walk to Shifen Waterfall.
New Pingxi Coal Mine Museum
Image source: Xinpingxi Coal Mine Museum
Located in Pingxi District, New Taipei City, the "New Pingxi Coal Mine Museum" is a must-visit spot if you want to explore the history of Pingxi's past.
The museum showcases many well-preserved artifacts related to coal mining. Through realistic displays, visitors can witness the complete process of coal mining, from extraction to transportation, and understand the daily life and work environment of miners. Every detail has been meticulously recreated to provide an immersive experience, allowing visitors to get a close look at the hard work of miners and appreciate the rich coal mining history that once brought prosperity to Pingxi.
The "New Pingxi Coal Mine Museum" is not only a historical landmark but also a testament to cultural heritage. For a small entrance fee, visitors can enjoy guided tours, ride the coal mine train, and experience the mine tunnels, making it an excellent destination for family trips.
The museum also has a gift shop offering a variety of cute miner-themed souvenirs, making it a great place to pick up some unique gifts.
- Address: No. 5, Dingliaozi, Pingxi District, New Taipei City
- Hours: 10:00-17:00 (closed on Mondays)
- Admission: NT$200 (free for children under four)
- Transportation: Take Taipei MRT Muzha Line to Muzha Station → transfer to Taipei Bus Route 16, get off at Shifenliao Station, and walk to the museum.
Jingtong Old Street
Image source: New Taipei City Tourism Network
Located in New Taipei City's Pingxi District and at the terminal station of the Pingxi Line, Jingtong Old Street is a historic and charming street that is a must-visit for many tourists coming to Pingxi. It has preserved many buildings dating back to the Japanese colonial period, with the most famous being Jingtong Station, which is over 80 years old.
Jingtong Old Street’s history dates back to the Japanese colonial era when it was an important hub for the coal mining industry. Although coal mining has since declined, the street’s buildings and layout remain largely unchanged.
Most of the buildings here are wooden with tiled roofs, and the shops on Jingtong Old Street still operate in a traditional manner, selling various handmade crafts, snacks, and souvenirs. Visitors can also enjoy many authentic Taiwanese snacks while exploring the street.
Besides food and crafts, Jingtong Old Street offers several attractions worth visiting. The most famous is Jingtong Station, one of the few well-preserved wooden train stations in Taiwan. The station houses displays about the coal mining history of the Pingxi area. Additionally, Jingtong is home to the world’s only sky lantern-shaped "Jingtong Electronic Sky Lantern Museum," and train enthusiasts won’t want to miss the "Railway Story Museum" located nearby.
Whether you’re interested in learning about the history of Pingxi or experiencing a different side of Taiwan away from the city, Jingtong Old Street is a destination worth considering.
- Address: Jingtong Street, Pingxi District, New Taipei City
- Hours: Open 24 hours
- Admission: Free
- Transportation: Take a TRA train to Badu Station or Ruifang Station, then transfer to the Pingxi Line and get off at Jingtong Station.
Houtong Cat Village
Image source: New Taipei City Tourism Network
Located next to Houtong Station, "Houtong Cat Village" is a famous tourist destination in New Taipei City. It was once recommended by CNN as one of the top six cat-watching destinations worldwide, making it a must-visit paradise for cat lovers. The cats here are friendly and unafraid of people, allowing visitors to observe them up close in their daily routines. The village also features cartoon-style cat illustrations painted by local artists, making it an ideal spot for taking photos. If you get tired, there are also cat-themed cafés and souvenir shops where you can grab a coffee, cuddle with cats, and soak up the feline charm.
- Address: No. 70, Chailiao Road, Ruifang District, New Taipei City
- Hours: Open 24 hours
- Admission: Free
- Transportation: Take a TRA local train to Houtong Station, then walk to Houtong Cat Village.
Wanggu Waterfall
Image source: New Taipei City Government Tourism Bureau
Wanggu Station on Pingxi Line is a mysterious train station that once thrived due to coal mining. Near this station lies the hidden gem "Wanggu Waterfall," which few people know about. Most tourists visiting the Pingxi Line focus on Shifen, Pingxi, and Jingtong, leaving Wanggu and its waterfall relatively untouched, preserving more of its natural beauty. From the station, it’s just a short walk along a small path by the railroad tracks and up some wooden steps, leading you deeper into the gorge to find this scenic waterfall.
The most unique aspect of Wanggu Waterfall is the alternating horizontal rock layers and soft, hard stones that create a stunning curtain-like waterfall as the water cascades down, forming a clear, green pool. This magical natural landscape makes many visitors feel like they’ve entered a fairy tale world.
- Address: No. 26, Qinghe Bridge, Pingxi District, New Taipei City (next to Wanggu Station)
- Hours: Open year-round
- Admission: Free
- Transportation: Take a TRA train to Wanggu Station on the Pingxi Line, then walk about 15 minutes to reach the waterfall.
Must-Try Food Near Pingxi sky lantern
Railway Sausages
Image Source: Railway Sausages Facebook
Offering authentic charcoal-grilled sausages and chicken steaks, Railway Sausages has been a beloved street food staple in Pingxi for over 30 years, loved by both locals and tourists alike. The rich, traditional flavors allow you to savor the unique taste of the charcoal fire in every bite. The prices are affordable, making it a must-try snack for anyone visiting Pingxi. It’s not just a local specialty but also a delicious memory many people can't forget after leaving Pingxi.
- Address: No. 18, Pingxi Street, Pingxi District, New Taipei City
- Business Hours: 11:00-18:30
Pingxi Traditional Flavored Miancha
Image source: Pingxi Traditional Flavored Miancha
On the old street, you'll find the rare traditional snack "Miancha." However, what makes Pingxi's traditional flavored miancha truly special is the inclusion of "Pong Bing," a once-common but now rare Taiwanese pastry.
What exactly is Pong Bing? It is a traditional Taiwanese baked pastry, named for the "pong pong" sound made during its baking process. Made by mixing flour, sugar, and water into a batter and pouring it into special molds, the pastry is baked and often filled with red bean, peanut, or sesame paste. The result is a crispy exterior and a soft interior, making it perfect to enjoy with hot miancha or soy milk. The shop also serves other nostalgic drinks like rich peanut soup and creamy almond tea, making it a highly recommended spot to try when visiting Pingxi.
- Address: No. 35, Pingxi Street, Pingxi District, New Taipei City
- Business Hours: 10:30-20:00 (closed on Wednesdays and Thursdays)
Taiwan Coal Mine Museum (Miner’s Lunchbox)
Image Source: Taiwan Coal Mine Museum
When taking a train in Taiwan, it’s customary to enjoy a delicious bento lunchbox. The Pingxi Railway offers a unique variation—the miner’s lunchbox, renowned for its simple yet flavorful homestyle dishes. Unfortunately, this special treat can only be enjoyed at the Taiwan Coal Mine Museum. The bento includes a variety of dishes like braised pork, boiled eggs, vegetables, and tofu, all carefully prepared to preserve the original flavors of the ingredients. It’s a taste of traditional Taiwanese cuisine with a rich history, and a must-try for visitors to the museum.
- Address: No. 5, Dingliaozi, Pingxi District, New Taipei City
- Business Hours: 09:00-17:00 (closed on Mondays)
Recommended One-Day Itineraries for Pingxi sky lantern
Family-Friendly Itinerary
- Morning: Visit the New Pingxi Coal Mine Museum to learn about the area's mining history and experience the life of a miner through the museum’s displays, including a fun ride on the coal mine train.
- Noon: Enjoy local specialties and snacks, such as the famous Railway Sausages, at Shifen Old Street.
- Afternoon: Explore Shifen Waterfall and marvel at the spectacular "Taiwan Niagara Falls."
- Evening: Release a sky lantern at Shifen Old Street with your family, writing down your wishes together.
- Night: Take the Pingxi Line train back to Taipei, enjoying the scenic views along the way.
Family Reunion Itinerary
- Morning: Take a stroll through Jingtong Old Street and visit the historic Jingtong Station.
- Noon: Savor local delicacies at Jingtong Old Street, such as the popular Yang Family Chicken Rolls.
- Afternoon: Head to Pingxi Old Street to experience the traditional activity of releasing sky lanterns.
- Evening: Visit Wanggu Waterfall and enjoy the serene beauty of this hidden forest gem.
- Night: Return to Pingxi Old Street for dinner, sampling more local street food and specialties.
Solo Traveler Itinerary
- Morning: Ride the Pingxi Line train and enjoy the mountain views along the journey.
- Noon: Try traditional food at Shifen Old Street, such as Miancha and Railway Sausages.
- Afternoon: Release a sky lantern in Pingxi Old Street and write down your personal wishes.
- Evening: Visit the sky lantern museum to learn about the history and cultural significance of this tradition.
- Night: Have dinner in Pingxi Old Street, tasting more of the area’s delicious street food.
Couples’ Romantic Getaway Itinerary
- Morning: Take a romantic walk through Shifen Old Street, snapping photos by the train tracks.
- Noon: Have a romantic lunch at Louzai Cuo Café, located in a cozy and charming setting.
- Afternoon: Visit Shifen Waterfall Park and take in the breathtaking waterfall views.
- Evening: Release a sky lantern together in Pingxi Old Street, writing down your vows of love.
- Night: Ride the Pingxi Line train back to Taipei, enjoying the beautiful night scenery.
More FAQ About pingxi sky lantern
Q: Can I release sky lanterns in Pingxi on weekdays?
Yes, sky lanterns can be released on weekdays in Pingxi. Shops selling sky lanterns are available in Pingxi, Shifen, and Jingtong Old Streets, and visitors can purchase and release sky lanterns any time.
Q: Best spots for photography in Pingxi?
- Shifen Old Street: Capture the iconic scene of sky lanterns floating above the train tracks.
- Wanggu Station: Catch the magical moment of trains passing at dusk.
- Jingtong Station: The wooden station building offers a nostalgic feel for photos.
- Shifen Waterfall: Take pictures of the majestic waterfall scenery.
- Jing’an Suspension Bridge: A great spot to shoot both the bridge and sky lanterns together.
Q: Safety tips for Pingxi sky lantern?
- Only release lanterns in designated areas.
- Always follow the instructions of staff or local authorities.
- Ensure the lantern is fully inflated and that the fuel is burning steadily before releasing it.
- Do not release lanterns during high winds or rainy weather.
- Be careful with the flame to avoid burns or accidents.
Q: What is the recommended attire and weather consideration for Pingxi sky lantern?
When planning to release sky lanterns in Pingxi, it’s good to consider the weather and your outfit:
Weather Information
- Spring (March-May): The temperature is moderate, ranging from 15°C to 25°C, but occasional rain is common, so bringing a light jacket and umbrella is advised.
- Summer (June-August): It’s hot, with temperatures between 25°C and 35°C, and there may be afternoon thunderstorms. Wear breathable, lightweight clothing and stay hydrated.
- Autumn (September-November): The temperature cools down to around 20°C, making it a comfortable season for lantern release, though the temperature difference between day and night can be large, so it’s a good idea to bring a light jacket.
- Winter (December-February): It’s cooler, with temperatures between 10°C and 15°C, and there’s frequent rainfall. Wear warm, waterproof clothing, and layer up to stay warm.
Attire Suggestions
- Shoes: Since Pingxi’s streets are often cobbled or small paths, it’s best to wear comfortable sneakers or non-slip shoes for easy walking, especially in rainy conditions.
- Jackets: Regardless of the season, it’s always a good idea to bring a jacket to protect yourself from cold winds or sudden weather changes.
- Rain Gear: Pingxi experiences frequent rain, so a lightweight raincoat or foldable umbrella is essential to stay dry.
- Sun Protection: In summer, the sun can be strong, so wearing a hat and sunscreen will help protect your skin from sunburn.
- Essentials: Bring water and snacks, along with a camera or phone to capture those precious moments.
Special Reminder
If the wind is too strong on the day of your visit, it’s advisable to avoid releasing sky lanterns to ensure safety.
Q: Are Pingxi sky lanterns environmentally friendly?
Releasing traditional sky lanterns does have some environmental concerns. However, some shops offer eco-friendly sky lanterns made of special materials that fully burn up in the sky. These eco-friendly lanterns are more expensive than traditional ones but are better for the environment as they produce less waste.
Struggling to plan your trip to Taiwan? Contact RTR for customized consultation and make your travel easier!
For further itinerary customization, please apply our TAILOR MADE TRAVEL SERVICE. Once we receive your request, we will provide you with a customized itinerary. Thank you!