By MOOK Scenic Spots Travel & Lifestyle Network Editorial Team
As winter arrives and the weather gradually turns colder, why not take a one-day trip to Guanziling in Tainan for some hot spring relaxation? Aside from enjoying its unique mud hot springs, you can also visit the Water and Fire Cave, one of Taiwan’s Seven Natural Wonders, or savor the delicious flavor of clay pot chicken — a truly satisfying experience. Below is a list of must-see sights and must-try treats for a one-day trip to Guanziling.
The Guanziling hot springs in Tainan are one of the rare mud hot spring sources in Taiwan, and all businesses in the hot spring area have been certified with the official hot spring label. (Photo by MOOK Scenic Spots Travel & Lifestyle Network / Chen Guanxin)
● Water and Fire Cave
Located at the foot of Pillow Mountain, southeast of Biyun Temple, the Water and Fire Cave is known locally as the Water-Fire Grotto. It's listed as one of Taiwan’s Seven Natural Wonders. Due to its unique geological structure, natural gas seeps out from the cliff walls while spring water gushes from cracks. Water and fire coexist in this stunning spectacle where flames emerge from the water continuously.
The Water and Fire Cave, located in the Siraya National Scenic Area, is a must-see natural wonder in Taiwan. (Image provided by Mook Publishing)
● Volcano Biyun Temple
Nestled on the mountainside of Guanziling, Biyun Temple faces west and is backed by the beautiful Pillow Mountain, overlooking the vast Chianan Plain. Surrounded by lush forests and verdant scenery, the area also contains abundant underground natural gas — hence the name “Volcano Biyun Temple.” The temple combines a solemn religious atmosphere with serene, poetic beauty, making it a uniquely blessed spiritual destination in Taiwan. Additionally, visiting Volcano Biyun Temple at night is highly recommended. Perched high above, it offers a sweeping view of the entire Chianan Plain. At night, the sight of countless city lights and the gentle cool breeze under the moonlight create a truly tranquil experience.
Night view of Volcano Biyun Temple. (Image provided by Tainan Tourism Bureau)
● Guanziling Sky Ladder
The Guanziling Sky Ladder connects the New and Old Brave Men’s Terraces, linking up with an aerial walkway that forms a small looped trail through the hot spring area. Visitors can enjoy the thrill of climbing higher while taking in bird’s-eye views of the lower Guanziling region. Nearby, you can also explore the Pillow Mountain View Deck for panoramic vistas of the Chianan Plain.
A view of the entire Guanziling area from the looped trail. (Image provided by Mook Publishing)
Recommended Hot Springs:
◎ Hot Spring Old Street — A Century-Old Mud Hot Spring Spot
Though only about 100 meters long, Guanziling Hot Spring Old Street retains an elegant, traditional Japanese-style charm. The Guanziling Grand Hotel on the street is a century-old hot spring establishment, originally founded as the Japanese-run Genryuten Ryokan. Its hinoki (cypress) wooden building stands as a witness to a century of hot spring culture.
The Guanziling Hotel is a century-old hot spring establishment. (Image provided by Mook Publishing)
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