Siling Hot Springs

Siling Hot Springs

Siling Hot Springs is located in Siling Village at the border of Taoyuan County and Yilan County. The spring source lies hidden within the Sangguang River Valley beneath the Northern Cross-Island Highway, making it a wild hot spring that retains its pristine charm.

The river valley where the hot springs are found is deep, narrow, and flanked by nearly vertical cliffs about a hundred meters high. In this perilous landscape, two hot spring waterfalls tumble down the opposite cliffs, filling the valley with thick steam, like stepping into a primordial wilderness. To enjoy a soak, one must brave a risky log bridge or ford thigh-deep icy waters—an experience that adds to the “untamed” allure of Siling Hot Springs.

Siling Hot Springs boasts an abundant water flow with crystal-clear, drinkable water. The spring emerges at around 65°C at its source but cools slightly as it flows down the mountain cliffs, making it a high-quality thermal spring. Due to the narrow and steep valley, there are no spacious hot spring pools—only a small pool below the upper hot spring waterfall is available for bathing. The more voluminous lower waterfall offers a unique experience: sitting on a protruding rock under the cascade and letting the hot water pour over you is incredibly refreshing, a highlight beloved by hot spring enthusiasts.

Transportation Directions: Take the Taoyuan Bus bound for Balin from Daxi, transfer to the Yixing Bus heading to Yilan at Xiabalin; or take the Yixing Bus from in front of Yilan Railway Station to Balin, and get off at Siling Station. Walk toward Yilan to the 61.2 km mark on the Northern Cross-Island Highway, then follow the instructions in the text to reach the springs. Yixing Bus has very limited service, so it’s best to check schedules in advance. Phone: (03) 950-1169.

Special Note: When hiking the mountain trails, you’ll often need to grab ropes or tree roots for support, so gloves and sturdy hiking shoes with good grip are essential.