The recent cold weather has drawn large crowds to hot spring resorts across Taiwan, all eager to warm up. After undergoing repairs and renovations following natural disasters, the Guguan area has regained its title as “Central Taiwan’s No. 1 Hot Spring,” bringing back the charm of its former hot spring town.
At an altitude of 800 meters, Guguan’s hot spring district is home to numerous hot spring hotels and restaurants, most offering private bathing rooms and trout meals. Many long-established inns have been renovated, decorating their soaking areas more elegantly, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a Japanese hot spring resort. The distinctly Japanese flair of Guguan’s hot springs has historical roots — the source of these springs was named during the early Japanese colonial period by Emperor Meiji of Japan. When the Japanese emperor and empress visited Guguan, they were captivated by the scenic beauty of the mountains and rivers, and thus named the place “Meiji Hot Spring.” Shortly after returning to Japan, the empress gave birth to a son, leading to the additional nickname “Hot Spring of Male Birth.”
The Lungkuh Hotel is a long-standing establishment in Guguan, with a presence spanning Dongguan Road. Just past the hotel’s Lungkuh Suspension Bridge lies the Lungkuh Recreation Area, which is free for hotel guests. The hotel’s second-floor themed private bathing rooms feature Japanese-style decor, with wooden massage bathtubs facing the valley. While soaking, you can admire the beautiful mountain scenery through floor-to-ceiling windows, creating an elegant ambiance. Hweilai Guguan, with its “No. 10 Hot Spring Lane” concept, makes you feel as if you’ve stepped into a South Pacific resort the moment you enter the lobby. The wooden furnishings imported from Bali fill the space with rich tropical vibes; thatched pavilions, South Pacific stone carvings, and tropical plants abound, turning your hot spring experience into another relaxing tropical getaway.
Izu Hot Spring is one of the few hot spring facilities in the Guguan area where the entire hot spring complex consists of private bathing rooms. Guests can choose different soaking options based on group size and budget. The open-air pool features a spacious layout with wide views, perfect for family fun. For those who prefer more active soaking experiences, you can purchase an entry ticket to enjoy the hot spring pool to the fullest. The refined private bathing rooms come with various amenities and capacities — some have large single baths, others offer dual hot and cold tubs, and some include massage bubble jets. Room capacities range from 2 to 4 people, allowing bathers to choose according to their preferences.
In addition to soaking in hot springs and enjoying trout meals, several nearby attractions in Guguan are also worth visiting. The Baxian Mountain Forest Recreation Area was once selected as one of Taiwan’s Eight Scenic Spots; the trails in the Daxue Mountain Forest Recreation Area are gentle and wide, ideal for leisurely strolls to breathe in the forest’s unique phytoncides; the Dongshi Forest Farm welcomes visitors with vibrant colors in every season, making it a place worth revisiting.
Read more: Northeastern Tazawa Lake Art Village (provided by Tripass Attractions)
