A winter slow travel getaway on the North Coast: soak in hot springs, enjoy a hot pot, and visit the northernmost point to see the sea

▲ Soaking in hot springs while enjoying cherry blossoms. (Photo / from the official fan page of Yangmingshan Tianlai Resort Hotel)

Reported by Yu Jiayun / New Taipei City

The weather is gradually getting cooler, and it’s time for hot spring season again. You don’t have to go all the way to Beitou to enjoy a soak. On Yangmingshan, you can enjoy a cozy sauna surrounded by mountains, and after your hot spring, warm up with a hearty bowl of pickled cabbage and pork hot pot that comforts both body and soul. Once you're feeling toasty, take a stroll through popular spots along the North Coast. The newly opened Far North Blue Point, Bayan Settlement, and Guhou Fishing Port are all great choices for a one-day trip. This autumn and winter, why not plan a relaxing day trip to the North Coast with family and friends?

Hot Springs in Yangmingshan

What could be happier on a cold day than soaking in hot springs, enjoying beautiful views, and eating piping hot oden? Tianlai Resort Hotel in Yangmingshan boasts an incredible view, and its open-air hot spring baths are very popular with both domestic and international visitors. Every year in February and March, the garden is covered in cherry blossoms, giving it a distinctly Japanese atmosphere. The winter-limited homemade pickled cabbage and pork hot pot is a real treat after your soak—perfect for warming up and satisfying your appetite.

No. 1-7, Mingle Road, Zhonghe Li, Jinshan District, New Taipei City
(02) 2408-0000

▲ A relaxing open-air hot spring. (Photo / from the official fan page of Yangmingshan Tianlai Resort Hotel)

▲ A chef’s special pickled cabbage and pork hot pot. (Photo / by reporter Yu Jiayun)

Far North Blue Point

Far North Blue Point is located approximately at Kilometer 23.5 on Provincial Highway 2, next to Baishawan. Originally an abandoned station vacated by the Coast Guard, it has been transformed and revitalized into the newest hotspot on the North Coast. From now until March next year, the venue will also host “Exhibition x Market” events, inviting local artists to hold cultural and art exhibitions, and organizing a creative farmer’s market every Sunday. Through a series of activities, it supports the development of local cultural and creative brands and establishes a new hub for local humanities on the North Coast.

No. 1-101, Section 1, Bajiaoxiao Section, Touwei, Shimen District, New Taipei City
(02) 2638-3883

▲ Far North Blue Point is this year’s new attraction on the North Coast. (Photo / provided by Beihai Art Creation)

▲ You can enjoy the sea view while viewing exhibitions. (Photo / by reporter Yu Jiayun)

Bayan Settlement

Often described as a hidden paradise, the Bayan Settlement is shrouded in moisture and rain in winter and fog in summer. The geothermal steam from wild stream hot springs adds to the “Bayan” (meaning “eight smokes”) imagery. The misty surroundings, ruins, and several traditional stone-built houses form a harmonious scene. With its serene mountain-water backdrop and tranquil, distant atmosphere, although the Bayan Settlement is currently closed to the public,group visits with guided tours can still be arranged,allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the local culture and stories of Bayan.

▲ Bayan Settlement. (Photo / provided by IG@chenevaeva)

Guhou Fishing Port

Guhou Village is a fishing community on the North Coast. Next to the fishing port, there’s a fish market where freshly landed catches are auctioned off. Aside from feasting on fresh seafood at the restaurants along the fishing village streets, the coastal area is also a great spot for cycling. Coming here to enjoy the sea breeze and scenery is definitely a great choice.

Fishery Road, Wanli District, New Taipei City