Japanese-style open-air bath surrounded by jungle forest to open in Jiaoxi on the 17th

▲ The Forest Bath at Jiaoxi Hot Spring Park offers a rich Japanese atmosphere. (Photo / from Jiaoxi Hot Spring Park Facebook page)

By Tsai Wen-jun / Staff reporter

After two months of renovation, Yilan’s Jiaoxi Hot Spring Park will officially reopen on the 17th, aiming to make the “Forest Bath” a signature hot spring destination in Yilan. Additionally, during the trial operation period from now until the 16th, local residents of Jiaoxi and seniors aged 65 and above across Taiwan can enjoy access to an exclusive hot spring area not open to the public by presenting valid ID.

▲ The Forest Bath is surrounded by nature, offering a relaxing experience for body and mind. (Photo / from Jiaoxi Hot Spring Park Facebook page)

The “Forest Bath” at Jiaoxi Hot Spring Park offers distinct environments for men and women. The women’s section features a wooden bathhouse as the main structure, allowing visitors to enjoy a Japanese-style onsen atmosphere amid towering wooden architecture. The Forest Bath, located in a more secluded area behind the open-air baths, lets you experience the beauty of nature amidst the forest.

▲ The men’s section of the Forest Bath. (Photo / from Jiaoxi Hot Spring Park Facebook page)

The men’s “Twin Dragons Bath” includes three pools: the Rock Bath is a central courtyard-style space enclosed by tetragonal sandstone walls that create a solemn ambiance; the Wind Bath allows you to feel Jiaoxi’s famous downslope winds while soaking; and the Light Bath, when viewed from inside, has the atmosphere of a Middle Eastern bathhouse, and you might even spot a hot spring steam tornado when you look up.

Jiaoxi Hot Spring Park will officially begin operations on the 17th and will charge an entrance fee for the hot springs: NT$80 for full-price tickets, NT$60 for discounted tickets. Children aged 6–12 or those between 115–150 cm tall, and seniors aged 65 and above can enjoy a half-price rate of NT$40 upon showing valid identification. People with disabilities and one accompanying person enter free of charge.