Rich cultural resources ~ Beitou Hot Spring Hydro Park

Source / Monocle Editorial Department

The expansive Beitou Hot Spring Hydro Park centers around the Beitou Stream, starting from Xinbeitou MRT Station and stretching all the way to the Thermal Valley along the babbling brook. Nestled within lush woods, it is the best leisure spot in Xinbeitou.

Like the Beitou Hot Spring Museum, which was also completed in 1913, Beitou Park has been revitalized and now features a completely new look. In addition to its hot springs, it also boasts rich cultural resources, including:

◎ The Beitou Library is designed with the concept of green architecture, featuring warm wooden structures and an eco-friendly goal.

'Hours: Tuesday to Saturday 8:30–21:00; Sunday and Monday 9:00–17:00

'Phone: 02-28977682

'Address: No. 251, Guangming Rd., Taipei City

◎ The Wisteria Court, built in the late 1930s, was the former residence of Yu Youren, with the name “Wisteria Court” inscribed on its gate pillars by him. The building, constructed along the terrain, combines Japanese and Western architectural styles. Its underground air-raid shelter and crenellated courtyard walls stand as testimonies to the wartime era.

'Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 9:00–17:00; Monday and national holidays closed

'Phone: 02-2897-2647

'Address: No. 6, Zhongshan Rd., Taipei City

◎ The Beitou Hot Spring Museum was originally the Beitou Public Bathhouse, consisting of a brick first floor and a wooden second floor. It blends the arched corridors and stained glass of Victorian-style buildings with traditional Japanese architectural elements.

'Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 9:00–17:00; Monday and national holidays closed

'Phone: 02-2893-9981

'Address: No. 2, Zhongshan Rd., Taipei City

◎ The Ketagalan Cultural Center 'Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 09:00–17:00; Monday and national holidays closed

'Phone: 02-2898-6500

'Address: No. 3-1, Zhongshan Rd., Taipei City