The Hot Spring Food Carnival kicks off—bring a voucher and the second person gets in for just NT$100 for a soak.

By Li Xinyi, compiled and reported

As the weather turns cooler, Taiwan has entered the peak season for hot spring bathing. How can you enjoy a soak at the best price? The Tourism Bureau has partnered with over a hundred businesses across 17 hot spring areas nationwide to launch a “Discount Passport.” In addition to 120 shops offering exclusive perks through this passport, the best deal is that when you present the passport coupon at designated shops, you can enjoy the second person’s entry to public hot springs for just NT$100 on weekdays.

The “2011 Taiwan Hot Spring & Gourmet Discount Passport” includes featured introductions and detailed transportation information for 17 hot spring areas across Taiwan, such as Xinbeitou, Sihchongxi, Dongpu, Nanbeigangxi, Guanziling, Baolai, Antong, Ruisui, and Guguan. Whether you drive yourself or take public transport, getting there is easy. This year, for the first time, QR codes are used—if you scan them with your smartphone, you can access transportation maps and information. The passport clearly outlines exclusive offers from 120 hot spring businesses across Taiwan, available only to passport holders. During the campaign period (Monday to Thursday), present the coupon included in the passport at designated shops to enjoy great deals such as “the second person’s entry to public hot springs for just NT$100” and “a NT$100 discount on meals over NT$500.”

The “2011 Taiwan Hot Spring & Gourmet Discount Passport” is now available free of charge at tourist service centers in various transportation hubs, the Tourism Bureau’s Traveler Service Centers, and visitor centers of national scenic areas.