By the MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Team

As winter approaches and the weather turns chilly, it’s the perfect time for a relaxing hot spring soak. Taiwan, blessed with a uniquely advantageous geographical location, boasts abundant hot spring sources across the island—whether in plains, mountains, valleys, or coastal areas. Notably, Beitou, Yangmingshan, Guanziling, and Sichongxi have been renowned since the Japanese colonial era, earning the title of Taiwan’s Four Great Hot Springs. To enjoy a healthy and proper soak, here’s what you need to know about onsen etiquette to make your experience both pleasurable and appropriate.

◎ Hot Spring Etiquette
1. Before entering the hot spring, please take a shower to clean your body.
2. Avoid playing, running, or jumping in the hot spring pool to prevent accidents.
3. Do not bring towels into the pool.
4. Do not smoke, eat, drink beverages, or consume food near or in the pool.
5. For safety and hygiene, keep personal clothing in the locker.
6. Do not rub your body while soaking in the hot spring.

◎ Hot Spring Taboos & Precautions
1. People with contagious diseases are prohibited from entering the bath.
2. Those with heart disease, lung disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or other circulatory system disorders should bathe according to their doctor’s advice.
3. People with dry or allergic skin should avoid hot springs to prevent skin irritation.
4. Women during menstruation are not allowed to enter the bath.
5. It is not suitable to bathe when drunk, on an empty stomach, or right after a heavy meal.
6. Do not bring pets into public hot spring baths.
7. Each soak should not exceed fifteen minutes.
8. Do not submerge your body higher than heart level in the hot spring.
9. Avoid going directly into a sauna after soaking in the hot spring to prevent corneal injury.
10. Pregnant women, elderly people with mobility issues, and children under three years old should not enter the bath.
11. Elderly individuals or those in poor health should avoid bathing alone.
12. After excessive fatigue or strenuous exercise, take a short rest before entering the hot spring.

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