Weekend Trip to Nantou: Soak in Hot Springs and Enjoy Scenery in Dongpu
Last updated 2026-09-25 — The hot springs and natural beauty of Dongpu in Nantou are two of the area’s major tourist attractions. Located at an altitude of about 1,200 to 1,300 meters, it borders Yushan National Park and is surrounded by high mountains such as Qundashan, Wangxiangshan, and Yushan. With the Shalixian Stream, ...
By MOOK Travel Life Network, reported and compiled by Chen Guanxin
The hot springs and natural scenery of Dongpu in Nantou are two of the area’s key tourism assets. Situated at an altitude of approximately 1,200∼1,300 meters, it neighbors Yushan National Park and is encircled by towering peaks such as Qundashan, Wangxiangshan, and Yushan. The convergence of the Shalixian Stream, Rainbow Stream, and Chenyoulan Stream creates a landscape where mountain and water blend. This environment showcases different charms in each season. Aside from soaking in hot springs, hiking and connecting with nature are also must-do activities in Dongpu.
The hot springs of Dongpu in Nantou are near Yushan National Park, with beautiful surroundings. (Photo provided by Monochrome Editing Department)
Dongpu Suspension Bridge
The Dongpu Suspension Bridge was completed at the end of 2005 and is located next to the large parking lot at the entrance to the Dongpu hot springs area. The bridge is about 195 meters long and was once the highest and longest of its kind in Taiwan. In front of the bridge stands a relief wall carved with an image of a Bunun warrior pulling on a rope, symbolizing the act of holding the bridge. Its open-design deck allows unobstructed views of the valley below. Colorful projection lights are installed on both sides of the bridge deck and at both ends of the bridge piers. At night, beams of red, yellow, blue, green, and purple light dance across the bridge, giving it the nickname “Harp Suspension Bridge.”
When visiting Dongpu, you can also stand on the Dongpu Suspension Bridge at night to enjoy the colorful lights shimmering through the valley. (Photo provided by Monochrome Editing Department)
Dongpu Hot Springs
Dongpu Hot Springs is a weak alkaline carbonated spring that is suitable for both soaking and drinking, offering great benefits for health and beauty. Soaking in an open-air hot spring here allows one's mind to relax, helping to forget all stress and escape the hustle and bustle. The Dongpu Hot Spring area holds a month-and-a-half-long Hot Spring Festival every November and December. In addition to exciting performances by the Bunun people, it also features the famous traditional eight-part harmony singing. The content of the festival varies each year.
Those interested in joining the Hot Spring Festival can inquire at local hot spring hotels. (Photo provided by Monochrome Editing Department)
Bunun Tribe Village
The indigenous people of Dongpu belong to the largest of the five major Bunun groups — the Kundan, Dandan, Kadu, Luan, and Kun communities — namely the Kun community. Each year, the Bunun people in the Dongpu area travel up the mountain to ancestral dwelling sites to hold events such as the Ear-Shooting Festival, Ancestor-Seeking Rituals, and Millet Harvest Festivals. Whenever there is a celebration, in addition to observing traditional ancient rituals, visitors can also enjoy the world-renowned Bunun eight-part harmony singing and millet harvest songs. In recent years, what were once exclusive tribal ceremonies have gradually opened up to the public for viewing.
The ceremonies of the Bunun people are quite spectacular and worth experiencing. (Photo provided by Monochrome Editing Department)
Shalixian Scenery
The Shalixian Route is one of the main hiking trails. Along the way, plum blossoms, cherry blossoms, pear blossoms, peach blossoms, and poinsettias bloom in different seasons. Notable attractions include the Taiwan Black Bear Monument, the Bunun village of Dongpu Yilin, and the Shalixian Lovers’ Suspension Bridge, all offering breathtaking views. The grandeur of the mountains and the murmuring streams present an expansive landscape that is both soothing and uplifting. Walking along the mountaintops and watersides, with birds chirping and fresh air all around, makes it the perfect choice for exploring hidden gems.
When traveling in Dongpu, aside from soaking in hot springs, you can also enjoy the fun of hiking and connecting with nature. (Photo provided by Monochrome Editing Department)
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