Release Your Dreams and Hopes into the Sky
This is undoubtedly a must-do activity for you – marvel at 10,000 glittering lanterns filling the sky at the Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival in Taipei! If you're a Disney fan, you'll easily spot scenes reminiscent of the movie 'Tangled' right here.

Image: ilikeevents
The Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival takes place only once a year. This year, the festival will be held on March 2, 2018, in Taipei, Taiwan. People gather to write their wishes and desires on lanterns and release them into the sky. Historically, lanterns released into the sky served as a signal to let refugees hiding in the hills know that their town was safe to return to.
You can purchase a lantern anywhere along the historic Shifen Old Street for approximately NT$150 – $200. Pen down your wishes for the new year, light it up, then head to the railway (yes, the railway is still operational, mind the signals) and release your lantern into the sky. Your dreams will soar high and far.
Now let Mytour share some insider tips to help you live out your Rapunzel dream:
1. Arrive early to beat the crowds

Mytour gives you a heads up – you might find yourself amidst a crowd of around 80,000 people flocking from all directions. But hey, who wouldn't want to live their Disney dream, right?
If crowds aren't your thing and you want to dash straight to Shifen, Mytour can arrange a private car for you! Your driver will take you wherever, whenever, no worries about squeezing onto crowded subways or worse, missing your train.
Alternatively, you can take a train from Taipei Main Station heading north to Ruifang Station. Then, transfer to the Pingxi Line and alight at Shifen.
2. Bring along your camera

Image: ilikeevents
Even if you're not a professional photographer, bringing along a good camera to this festival is definitely the smartest choice. You'll be clicking away tirelessly when you witness the mesmerizing sight of thousands of lanterns illuminating the night sky.
However, if you want to share your Instagram stories or Facebook Livestream to flaunt with your friends, don't forget to grab a 4G WiFi device for super-fast internet access, plus it can be shared with up to 5 other devices.
3. Prepare your wishes in advance

Amidst the crowd of around 80,000 people, you'll surely be too distracted to think about your New Year wishes. Mytour advises you to prepare a list of your wishes to write on the lanterns (keeping it saved on your phone is the best).
4. Take a stroll around the Old Street and Thirteen Levels

Image: thetravelintern
Don't forget to take a leisurely stroll to Shifen Waterfall and admire the stunning scenery here. Plus, a little walk to burn off some energy before indulging in the delicious street food at Old Street is a must.

If you're a Spirited Away fan, the Amei Tea House here might resemble a replica of Miyazaki's tea house from the movie. Enjoy a cup of oolong tea while savoring traditional Taiwanese snacks like pineapple cakes or brown sugar mochi.
Or else, fill up on the tastiest street food in Taiwan. From handmade traditional fish balls to peanut roll ice cream, you won't be able to stop! Check out Mytour's 10 must-try dishes in Taiwan to see more.
Explore other destinations in Taipei

If you're seeking other activities to fully enjoy your journey, Taipei 101 Tower is a must-not-miss. Ascend to the observation deck of one of the world's tallest buildings, and you'll be mesmerized by the breathtaking cityscape!
Mytour offers an enticing trip to Taipei 101 at attractive prices

Even if your Taiwan itinerary doesn't coincide with the Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival, Old Street and Thirteen Levels are still must-visit destinations. But here's a little secret, you can release lanterns any day of the year here! If you want the fastest and most comfortable way to get to Old Street and Thirteen Levels, Mytour provides Ximen shuttle service.
Mytour offers a trip to Old Street and Thirteen Levels
Discover more Mytour's Taiwan travel hacks to gather more tips to conquer Taiwan! If you're a bit lazy to plan your trip, Mytour has prepared an 72-hour Taiwan getaway just for you.