Gold Museum Jinguashi - Museum exhibit with japanese screen and mountain mural.
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Gold Museum Jinguashi

4.2
·18k reviews·, Taiwan

Explore Taiwan's gold mining past at Jinguashi, featuring a giant gold brick, historic mine tunnels, and scenic mountain hikes.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, better experience

CrowdLow
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Gold Museum Jinguashi - Museum exhibit with japanese screen and mountain mural.

Gold Museum Jinguashi

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, better experience

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Taiwan's gold mining past at Jinguashi, featuring a giant gold brick, historic mine tunnels, and scenic mountain hikes.

4.2
(18k reviews)

"An interesting site with unique attractions, though some areas need repair and ticketing can be confusing."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Experience Schedules First

Mine tours & experiences sell out fast! Check times upon arrival to plan your day. :ticket:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Lots of walking and hiking trails. Good footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Giant Gold Brick

The Giant Gold Brick

Gold Museum

Touch a 220kg gold brick worth millions! A truly dazzling and unforgettable experience.

The Historic Mine Tunnel

The Historic Mine Tunnel

Mine Tunnel Experience

Step back in time and explore the actual gold mine tunnels. An immersive historical journey.

Crown Prince Hirohito's Chalet

Crown Prince Hirohito's Chalet

Benshan Old Street

Explore the beautifully preserved Japanese-era residence of Crown Prince Hirohito.

Teapot Mountain Hike

Teapot Mountain Hike

Near Gold Museum

Embark on a scenic hike with stunning coastal and mountain views. Rewarding for nature lovers.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Tunnel & Mine Experiences

Many of the interactive experiences, like the tunnel tour and mining car rides, have set schedules and sell out quickly. Arrive early and check the schedule upon entry to avoid disappointment. Some visitors reported issues with closures for renovations, so confirm availability.

Navigating Fees and Renovations

The Gold Museum complex has multiple attractions, each with a separate fee, which can add up. Be aware that some areas, including the mine tunnel, may be closed for renovations. Check signage and confirm with staff before purchasing tickets for specific experiences.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better experience
Crowd
Low
When
Sunny Afternoons
Why
Enjoy outdoor areas
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

What do you think this largest gold artifact is? It’s 9.1 kilograms of pure gold, and historians still haven’t figured out what this thing is… #History #storytime #artifact #gold #gemstone #museum #themonkeykang
@themonkeykang
29.8K likes • 440.5K views

Check Experience Schedules First

Mine tours & experiences sell out fast! Check times upon arrival to plan your day. :ticket:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Lots of walking and hiking trails. Good footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:

The treasure of the Palace Museum in Taipei was presented by the Guangxu Emperor to his consort as a wedding gift. Today it’s a priceless gem sitting in a museum. #History #storytime #artifact #treasure #museum #jewelry #themonkeykang
@themonkeykang
12.4K likes • 169.2K views
Have you been to Taipei’s Gold Museum? 你去過台北的黃金博物館嗎?🇹🇼 It’s actually in Jinguashi in Rifang. 其實它在瑞芳的金瓜石。 🚌 We took bus 965 from Beimun and the ride was about an hour. 我們從北門搭965號公車,車程大約一個小時。 🎫 Tickets are 80 TWD 門票是80台幣 👀 You get to see the whole complex built along the mountainside. 博物館包括整個舊礦區山坡的建築。 ⛏️ Don’t miss walking inside the mine at the upper level 別錯過在上層的礦坑裡走走。 ⛩️ Or the Japanese shrine ...
laughtraveleat
702 likes • 28.7K views

Prepare for Separate Fees

Each attraction has its own ticket. Budget accordingly! :moneywithwings:

Confirm Renovation Status

Some areas may be closed for repairs. Ask staff before buying tickets. :construction:

The old gold mine museum (it’s actually connected to the old mine! I wonder if they will provide tours into the mine. Everything is under construction at the moment) at Jinguashih! #jinguashihgoldmuseum #jinguashi #taiwan #taiwantravel
kelvinlovestoeat
9 likes • 194 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Experience Schedules First

Mine tours & experiences sell out fast! Check times upon arrival to plan your day. :ticket:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Lots of walking and hiking trails. Good footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:

Prepare for Separate Fees

Each attraction has its own ticket. Budget accordingly! :moneywithwings:

Confirm Renovation Status

Some areas may be closed for repairs. Ask staff before buying tickets. :construction:

Bus 965 is Convenient

Easy access from Taipei's North Gate. About an hour ride. :bus:

What Travellers Say

4.2
(18k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Gold Museum Jinguashi an interesting historical site with unique attractions like the giant gold brick and mine tunnels. While the affordability and educational value are appreciated, some areas are noted to be in disrepair, and the ticketing system with separate fees for multiple attractions can be confusing and lead to disappointment if experiences are sold out or closed for renovation.

"This location offers an excellent opportunity for children to learn about the history of Taiwanese gold mines. The site features numerous exhibits and trails leading to various historical locations, some of which may require additional fees. The staff is known for their friendly and helpful service. A highlight of the visit is the impressive exhibit showcasing a substantial gold brick, valued at US$23.8 million. Furthermore, visitors can learn about identifying potential gold-bearing rocks."

Ed C

"An interesting site to visit. Park like grounds. However the site is in a state of disrepair. Renovations started in 2004 and it seems that weather and the elements have taken their toll. The little train was not functioning on the day I visited. There is a tunnel experience that you can take for an additional $150, but the ticket counter nearby wasn't open. Several pleasant workers standing around but with little guidance. Signage could have been a lot better. I think, but I'm not sure that I was supposed to get my ticket at the main entrance."

Raj

"Pretty interesting gold mine converted to museum like park. The museum exhibits are mostly 1 room displays scattered in 5-6 different buildings.The out door area is beautiful with various hiking routes nearby. The tickets are pretty cheap since it’s public / government sponsored.

Best to go on a good sunny day so you can enjoy the outdoor areas more"

Greg Kuebler

What People Like

Giant gold brick
Historical mine tunnels
Affordable entry fees

What People Dislike

State of disrepair
Confusing separate fees
Experiences sold out/closed

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most recommended way to reach the Gold Museum Jinguashi from Taipei is by taking Bus 965 from Taipei's North Gate (Beimun Station). The journey takes approximately one hour.Instagram+1 This bus route also conveniently stops at other popular spots like Jiufen Old Street, making it easy to combine visits.Instagram

While specific parking details are not widely shared, it's generally advisable to rely on public transport due to the mountainous terrain and potential for limited parking. Bus 965 offers a straightforward and scenic route.Instagram+1

Absolutely! The Gold Museum Jinguashi is a popular day trip destination from Taipei. You can easily combine it with visits to nearby attractions like Jiufen Old Street and Pingxi Old Street using public transport like Bus 965.Instagram

Bus 965 is a convenient option for traveling between the Gold Museum Jinguashi and Jiufen Old Street, as they are on the same route.Instagram This allows for easy exploration of both areas within a single day.

One TikTok user humorously mentioned being cautious of 'murder hornets and vipers in the bushes'.Instagram While this might be an exaggeration for dramatic effect, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings in natural environments.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets for the Gold Museum complex are generally affordable, with one source mentioning 80 TWD.Instagram However, be aware that many of the individual attractions within the complex, such as the mine tunnel experience, have separate fees.Reddit

One visitor mentioned that the museum was free for some reason on the day they visited.Reddit It's possible that there are occasional promotional periods or special circumstances that offer free admission.

The general admission ticket provides access to the museum exhibits and the park-like grounds.Reddit However, specific experiences like the mine tunnel tour or the little mining car experience often require separate tickets and have their own set times.Reddit

It appears that tickets for popular experiences like the mine tunnel sell out quickly, and some visitors were unable to participate because they were sold out by the afternoon.Reddit It's best to check the schedule and purchase tickets as soon as you arrive.

While specific hours are not detailed in the provided content, one review suggests that by 1 PM, all experiences for the rest of the afternoon were already sold out.Reddit This indicates that arriving earlier in the day is advisable to secure tickets for desired activities.

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The Gold Museum Jinguashi offers a variety of attractions, including exhibits on gold mining history, the chance to touch a massive gold brick,Instagram a historic mine tunnel experience,Instagram and the former residence of Crown Prince Hirohito.Instagram The surrounding area also features hiking trails like Teapot Mountain.Instagram+1

Yes, the museum is considered an excellent place for children to learn about Taiwanese gold mining history. The exhibits and trails offer an engaging and educational experience for younger visitors.Reddit

The 220-kilogram gold brick is a major highlight, valued at nearly 700 million NTD (approximately US$23.8 million). Visitors have the unique opportunity to touch this impressive artifact.InstagramReddit

Indeed, the area around the Gold Museum is known for its hiking trails. Teapot Mountain (4000m) is a popular choice, offering rewarding climbs and scenic views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding landscapes.Instagram+1

Some reviews indicate that parts of the site are in a state of disrepair, with renovations ongoing since 2004. Weather and time have taken their toll on some structures, and certain attractions like the little train may not be functioning.Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Iconic photo opportunities include the massive gold brick,Instagram the entrance to the historic mine tunnel,Instagram the Japanese-era Crown Prince's Chalet,Instagram and the scenic views from the Teapot Mountain hike.Instagram+1 The 'stairs turned into a waterfall' at the Gold Mine Museum is also a unique shot.Instagram

While not explicitly stated, it's generally assumed that photography is allowed in most museum areas unless otherwise indicated by signage. However, be mindful of any restrictions, especially around delicate artifacts.

Visitors often capture the grandeur of the gold brick, the historical ambiance of the mine, and the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains and coast from the hiking trails. The unique 'waterfall stairs' also make for interesting shots.Instagram

Visiting on a sunny day will enhance the colors and visibility for photography, especially for the outdoor exhibits and hiking trails.Reddit Early mornings or late afternoons might offer softer light and fewer crowds.

A versatile camera with a good zoom lens would be beneficial for capturing both the close-up details of the gold exhibits and the expansive landscapes from the hikes. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the mine tunnels and scenic vistas.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Gold Museum Jinguashi is a fantastic educational outing for families. Children can learn about Taiwan's gold mining history through engaging exhibits and the chance to see a massive gold brick.InstagramReddit The mine tunnel experience, if available, offers an exciting glimpse into underground work.Instagram

Tips for families: Arrive early to secure tickets for popular timed experiences like the mine tunnel, as they sell out quickly.Reddit Wear comfortable shoes as there's a lot of walking, and consider the Teapot Mountain hike for older children who enjoy nature and views.Instagram+1 Be prepared for separate entrance fees for different attractions within the complex.Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

The Gold Museum Jinguashi can be a budget-friendly destination, especially considering its government-sponsored nature. While individual attractions have separate fees, the general admission is often quite affordable, with one mention of 80 TWD.Instagram

Tips for budget travelers: Prioritize which paid experiences are most important to you, as the costs can add up.Reddit Utilize public transport like Bus 965 from Taipei, which is an economical way to reach the site.Instagram+1 Enjoy the free-to-explore park grounds and the scenic hiking trails like Teapot Mountain for cost-free enjoyment.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Jinguashi offers a diverse range of photographic opportunities, from the dazzling giant gold brick Instagram to the atmospheric mine tunnels Instagram and the historical Crown Prince's Chalet.Instagram The unique 'stairs turned into a waterfall' is also a memorable shot.Instagram

Tips for photographers: Visit on a sunny day for vibrant colors and clear views, especially for the outdoor exhibits and the Teapot Mountain hike.Instagram+1 Consider arriving early to capture shots with fewer crowds. A versatile camera setup will allow you to capture both close-up details and expansive landscapes.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Gold Rush History of Jinguashi

Jinguashi, once a bustling hub of gold and copper mining, has a rich history deeply intertwined with Taiwan's industrial development. The area's transformation into the Gold Museum reflects a conscious effort to preserve and showcase this heritage. The museum complex itself is spread across former mining facilities and administrative buildings, offering a tangible connection to the past.

During its peak, Jinguashi was a significant source of wealth, attracting miners and workers from across the region. The remnants of this era, including the mine shafts and the Japanese-era architecture like the Crown Prince's Chalet, stand as testaments to its prosperous past. The museum aims to educate visitors about the mining techniques, the lives of the miners, and the economic impact of gold extraction on Taiwan.TikTok

Today, Jinguashi is more than just a museum; it's an open-air testament to industrial history. The integration of natural landscapes with historical structures, like the nearby Teapot Mountain hike, provides a unique visitor experience. This blend allows for an appreciation of both the human endeavor in mining and the natural beauty of the region.Instagram+1

Exploring the Interactive Experiences

The Gold Museum Jinguashi offers several interactive elements designed to immerse visitors in the mining experience. The Mine Tunnel Experience allows you to walk through a section of the actual gold mine, providing a glimpse into the challenging conditions faced by miners. This is a popular attraction, but it's crucial to check the schedule and purchase tickets in advance as they often sell out.Reddit

Another engaging activity is the little mining car experience, which simulates the transport of ore. Similar to the tunnel tour, this also operates on a set schedule and can be fully booked early in the day.Reddit Visitors interested in these hands-on activities should prioritize them upon arrival to ensure participation.

Beyond these, the museum grounds themselves are an experience. The Benshan Old Street area, with its historical buildings and the Crown Prince's Chalet, offers a step back in time. The chance to touch the giant gold brick is a unique highlight, offering a tangible connection to the immense value and allure of gold.InstagramReddit

The Allure of Teapot Mountain

For those who enjoy a bit of adventure and stunning scenery, the Teapot Mountain (4000m) hike is a must-do. Located near the Gold Museum, this trail offers a rewarding experience with breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged ridgelines, and lush valleys.Instagram+1 The hike is accessible from the Gold Museum area, making it easy to combine with a museum visit.

The trail itself is described as not overly difficult but involves a significant number of stairs, so comfortable footwear is essential.Instagram The journey to the summit provides a fantastic opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty of Taiwan's northeastern coast. It's a perfect activity for nature enthusiasts and photographers looking for spectacular vistas.

Combining the historical exploration of the Gold Museum with the natural beauty and physical challenge of the Teapot Mountain hike offers a well-rounded experience of the Jinguashi region. It's a chance to connect with both the industrial past and the stunning natural environment.Instagram+1

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