By MOOK Travel Life Network, Chen Guanxin, compiled and reported
As the hot spring season approaches, hot spring resorts across Taiwan are gearing up for peak tourist season. The top choice for hot springs in central Taiwan—Guguan—not only offers soothing warm baths but also features nearby attractions such as the Shaolai Trail, Guguan Suspension Bridge, Dongchang Rainbow Trout Farm, New Zealand Farm, and the Daxue Mountain Forest Recreation Area. Here you can enjoy the freshness of nature, old memories from Japan’s Meiji era, delicious cuisine, and a giant 2,500-year-old sacred tree, adding more exciting variety to your hot spring getaway.
The hot spring destination of Guguan in central Taiwan has plenty of fun and delicious experiences waiting for visitors to explore. (Photo provided by Moleskine Editorial Department)
Guguan Scenic Area—A Premier Hot Spring Spot in Central Taiwan
Guguan, the top choice for hot springs in central Taiwan, features weak alkaline carbonated spring water known for its stress-relieving and blood circulation benefits, making it the perfect place to warm up during winter. In addition to soaking in the springs, you can visit famous attractions such as the well-equipped Hot Spring Park, the Hot Spring Culture Museum, and popular landmarks like the “Shaolai Suspension Bridge” and “Guguan Suspension Bridge.” Stroll along leisure trails to explore the origins of the hot springs. After soaking, head to nearby restaurants and mountain produce shops for a delicious meal.
[Info]
Address: No. 102, Section 1, Dongguan Road, Heping District, Taichung City (Guguan Visitor Center)
Phone: (04)2595-1496
Guguan is the top choice for hot springs in central Taiwan. (Photo provided by Moleskine Editorial Department)
Shaolai Trail—A Famous Attraction in Guguan Scenic Area
The name “Shaolai Trail” comes from a local tribal chief. This popular trail follows the contours of the mountain. Except for one slightly steep section that requires careful walking, most of the 1,300-meter trail is quite flat and suitable for all age groups, with the round trip taking just 60 minutes. Along the way, visitors can enjoy Guguan’s famous four-season mountain scenery. Don’t forget to take a moment at the observation pavilion to take in the full view of Guguan’s landscape.
[Info]
Address: Beside the Guguan Post Office, Section 1, Dongguan Road, Heping District, Taichung City
The Shaolai Suspension Bridge takes its name as a homophone for “bringing good news,” wishing every traveler joyful tidings. (Photo provided by Moleskine Editorial Department)
Guguan Suspension Bridge—The Legendary Starting Point of Guguan Hot Springs
Guguan Hot Springs originated in Japan’s Meiji era and were formerly known as “Meiji Hot Springs.” Due to their clear water and lack of sulfur smell, they quickly became a favorite among visitors. Today, there are various types of hot spring pools, including health spas, Japanese gardens, and pine forest streams, making it a renowned hot spring destination along the Central Cross-Island Highway. The Guguan Suspension Bridge, which dates back to 1986, has a stone monument beneath it that marks the source of the hot springs—a very famous spot.
[Info]
Address: No. 102, Section 1, Dongguan Road, Heping District, Taichung City
This historic suspension bridge attracts many visitors for photos. (Photo provided by Moleskine Editorial Department)
Guguan Hot Spring Park—A Relaxing Free Foot Soak Spot
Located next to the Guguan Visitor Center, Guguan Hot Spring Park is a popular resting spot thanks to its convenient location and open space. The park is well-equipped, featuring a Hot Spring Culture Museum that introduces the history and characteristics of Guguan, as well as a visitor center that provides information on various attractions. The most popular attraction is the foot soaking pool, where visitors can relax their feet while enjoying the fresh scenery of Guguan—an incredibly relaxing experience.
[Info]
Address: No. 102, Section 1, Dongguan Road, Heping District, Taichung City
Phone: (04)2595-1496
Business Hours: 09:00–17:00
Don’t miss the foot soaking pool—soak your feet, chat with family and friends, and unwind. (Photo provided by Moleskine Editorial Department)
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