Turns out this is also a hot spring paradise — Taiwan’s Top 10 Hot Spring Attractions

By MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team

As autumn and winter gradually set in, Taiwan officially enters the peak season for hot spring bathing. Blessed with a unique geographical location, Taiwan boasts a diverse range of spring types, including cold springs, hot springs, murky springs, and submarine springs, making it a world-renowned hot spring destination. With the kickoff of the October Hot Spring Season, here are ten recommended hot spring destinations, each offering pristine waters and an atmosphere embraced by nature.

1. Taipei — Xinbeitou Hot Spring Area, Yangmingshan Hot Spring Area, Shamao Mountain Hot Spring Area
Xinbeitou Hot Spring has been famous since the Japanese colonial period, naturally attracting the Japanese who loved hot spring bathing. It is said to be highly effective for skin diseases, neurodermatitis, asthma, and rheumatism, making it one of the most renowned hot spring spots in northern Taiwan.

2. New Taipei — Wulai Hot Spring Area, Jinshan-Wanli Hot Spring Area
Jinshan Hot Spring is adjacent to the North Coast and shares the same spring system as Yangmingshan, belonging to the Tatun Volcanic Mountain Range. It is the northernmost hot spring area in Taiwan, with slightly acidic water that is both suitable for bathing and drinking. The spring quality of Jinshan is particularly good for those with sensitive skin.

3. Yilan — Jiaoxi Hot Spring Area
Jiaoxi Hot Spring is a sodium bicarbonate spring, clear and odorless. After soaking, your skin becomes smooth and delicate without feeling sticky. Rich in mineral content, it is highly beneficial to the body whether you soak, shower, or drink the processed mineral water.
 
4. Hsinchu-Miaoli — Qingquan Jianshi Hot Spring Area, Tai’an Hot Spring Area
The Tai’an Hot Spring Village is nestled among the peaks of Henglong Mountain, Bird Beak Mountain, and Tiger Cub Mountain, offering a quiet and serene environment. As you drive along the mountain roads, a cool breeze greets you, as if inviting you to embrace a leisurely vacation mood. If you visit during the tung blossom season, you’ll be accompanied by the snow-white “May Snow” tung blossoms along the way, adding even more romance to the journey.

5. Taichung — Guguan, Dakeng, Wuri Hot Spring Areas
The Guguan Hot Spring Scenic Area features a free foot-soaking hot spring park to relax your body and mind, as well as two suspension bridges that retain their most primitive charm. Among them, the “Guguan Suspension Bridge” is the most iconic, ensuring visitors can find fulfillment for both body and soul.