Box Inn Jiufen - Hostel

The worker was very nice and helped us with the cancellation process, and the hostel has stunning views over Jiufen and down to the ocean. It’s cute and only a few steps from the magnificent old street, so you can stay out until the lantern light fades. But I wouldn’t recommend a long stay. I stayed here for one night, and it wasn’t pleasant. The place seems past its prime, with moisture getting in, a humid and damp climate, and not enough cleaning. The bed sheets and pillowcases smelled of body odour, and black mold was growing on the bed curtains and walls. It was easy to spot. I understand Taiwan is very humid, Juifen gets a lot of rain, and the old buildings are struggling, but this hostel needs a proper reset and more thorough daily cleaning. In a pinch, it’s somewhere to lay your head, but be mindful of the health concerns.

It’s right in Jiufen’s old street, and the facilities are very nice. The owners are incredibly friendly and helpful. I’d highly recommend it if you want a relaxed, family-like atmosphere.

The sheets were clearly not clean. My duvet smelled strongly of sweat and body odour, and with no staff around in the evening, there was nobody I could ask to change it. Since I was only there for one night, I slept without it, but felt really grossed out. The kitchen and bathroom also felt pretty unclean. Otherwise, it’s an okay hostel in an okay location, and if you really have to stay in Jiufen, it does the job.

The staff are so sweet that you forget the mattress is a bit hard and there’s no washing machine. Great social hostel. ❤️