Winter Fun in Taipei and New Taipei: Water Activities and Hot Spring Soaks

The autumn breeze is rustling, and before we know it, the cool season is more than halfway over — winter is just around the corner. Hot springs have once again become the top choice for travelers. The Taipei and New Taipei areas boast uniquely rich natural resources, and one of the most beloved among locals is their hot springs. The Jinshan Hot Springs on the northern coast and those of Yangmingshan share the same source, with waters that are slightly acidic and gentle on the skin. Meanwhile, the hot springs in Wulai are weakly alkaline carbonated springs, clear in quality and even drinkable. Each hot spring has its own unique characteristics. Surrounded by mountain scenery, soaking in these thermal baths adds a delightful touch to your trip.

Beitou is an area surrounded by Samao Mountain, Datun Mountain, and Qixing Mountain ranges. Due to its location within a volcanic rock belt, the unique geological features have given rise to industries such as sulfur, U-Li’an stone, ceramics, rush weaving, Penglai rice, and hot springs. The sources of Beitou’s hot springs are the Thermal Valley and the Dragon-Phoenix Valley on Xingyi Road. Depending on their location, the waters are categorized into three types: white sulfur, green sulfur, and iron sulfur. Here, you can choose from nostalgic, retro-style bathhouses or trendy, modern hot spring resorts — both day trips and overnight stays are great options. In addition, Beitou offers many cultural attractions, such as the century-old Thermal Valley Park and the Zen Garden where Zhang Xueliang once stayed, all worth exploring in detail.

Wulai Hot Springs are the most popular soaking destination in Northern Taiwan. Their colorless, odorless, silky-smooth "beauty springs" are representative of high-quality thermal waters. Located in an indigenous tribal area, the springs offer a rich cultural atmosphere along with beautiful scenery of streams and forests — making it a great spot to connect with nature on holidays. In Wulai, you can soak in hot springs, enjoy the scenery, savor Atayal cuisine in the style of the local indigenous culture, and watch vibrant tribal song and dance performances. Or explore ancient trails, admire waterfalls, observe wildlife, breathe in forest phytoncides and negative ions, and immerse yourself in a complete mind-body-spirit renewal experience.

Traveling up Yangmingshan via Yangde Boulevard lets you explore its fascinating volcanic landscapes, sip coffee at themed landscape cafes while enjoying the views, and dine at hot spring restaurants that serve both baths and delicious food — an experience you won’t want to end. Jinshan Hot Springs, like those of Yangmingshan, come from the same source. In recent years, Jinshan and Wanli have become another hot spring haven, warmly welcoming weary travelers and washing away your stress and fatigue.

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