Seeking a blend of relaxation and culture? Taiwan's hot springs are a must-experience. Tucked away in mountains, valleys, and coastal towns, these geothermal baths offer a diverse range of atmospheres. You can find everything from luxurious spa resorts in Beitou and Jiaoxi to secluded wild springs deep within Taroko Gorge.
Each location is a unique mix of nature, history, and healing traditions, making them a key part of Taiwanese leisure and wellness. Whether you're looking for an accessible public bath or an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Taiwan’s hot springs promise warmth, rejuvenation, and a deep connection to the island's volcanic landscape.
The Unique Types of Hot Springs in Taiwan
- Sulfur Springs – Common in Beitou and Yangmingshan, these springs are known for their milky-white waters and distinct sulfur aroma. They are often praised for skin-cleansing and therapeutic benefits.
- Carbonic Springs – Found in Wulai and Taichung’s Guguan, these clear, gently bubbling springs are believed to aid blood circulation and relieve muscle fatigue, making them ideal for relaxation.
- Mud Springs – A global rarity, Guanziling in Tainan is home to mineral-rich mud hot springs. Their thick, gray waters are widely used for skin exfoliation and natural beauty treatments.
- Cold Springs – Taiwan is one of only two places in the world with natural cold springs, located in Su’ao, Yilan. These naturally carbonated, refreshing pools are perfect for a summer dip.
Further Reading:
Health Benefits & Soaking Etiquette
Soaking in Taiwan's hot springs is thought to offer various health benefits: improving circulation, soothing muscle and joint pain, and promoting detoxification and relaxation. To fully enjoy the experience, it's essential to follow local etiquette:
- Cleanliness First: Always shower thoroughly before entering any communal bath.
- Embrace the Nude: Most public indoor baths are gender-separated and require you to bathe without a swimsuit. Swimwear is typically allowed only in mixed-gender outdoor pools.
- Respect the Peace: Hot springs are tranquil spaces. Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor to preserve the peaceful atmosphere for everyone.
Health Benefits & Soaking Etiquette
Health Benefits of Taiwan Hot Springs
- Improve blood circulation
- Relieve muscle and joint pain
- Detoxify the skin
- Reduce stress and enhance sleep quality
Hot Spring Etiquette
- Cleanliness First: Always shower before entering the pool.
- Embrace the Nude: Gender-separated indoor baths usually require nudity, while mixed-gender outdoor pools allow swimwear.
- Respect the Peace: Keep a calm, quiet atmosphere to ensure a relaxing experience for all.
Top Hot Spring Destinations in Taiwan
From the northern capital to the eastern coast, Taiwan offers a range of hot spring towns, each with its own unique charm and accessible location.
- Beitou Hot Springs (Taipei)：This is Taiwan's most famous hot spring district, easily reached via MRT from downtown Taipei. Visitors can explore the historic Beitou Hot Spring Museum, wander through the mesmerizing steam of Thermal Valley, and choose from a wide variety of public and private baths, from luxurious hotel spas to the affordable Millennium Hot Spring.
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Beitou Hot Spring
- Jiaoxi Hot Springs (Yilan) ：Just an hour's train ride from Taipei, Jiaoxi is beloved for its urban setting and family-friendly atmosphere. The town's mineral-rich springs are perfect for a rejuvenating soak. Don't miss the unique local experiences, like hot spring fish spas and public foot baths right in the middle of town.
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Taipei to Jiaoxi
- Wulai Hot Springs (New Taipei City)：Nestled amid lush mountains, Wulai provides a unique blend of natural beauty and indigenous Atayal culture. You can relax in riverside hot springs or book a hotel bath with stunning views of the Nanshi River. The town is also a great place to explore picturesque waterfalls and ride the famous cable car.
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Taipei to Wulai
- Guanziling Hot Springs (Tainan)：Located in southern Taiwan, Guanziling is famous for its rare mud hot springs. These mineral-rich, gray baths are believed to soften the skin and detoxify the body. The area also offers a charming, rustic vibe with local eateries serving authentic Taiwanese dishes.
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Guanziling Hot Spring
Source:Taiwan Tourism Administration
- Zhiben Hot Springs (Taitung)：Known for its iron-rich waters and tranquil forest surroundings, Zhiben has been a premier wellness destination since the Japanese era. This serene setting in eastern Taiwan provides a peaceful escape, with a number of resorts offering luxurious and therapeutic stays.
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Zhiben Hot Spring
- Wild Hot Springs (Taroko & Central Mountains)：For adventurous travelers, Taiwan’s wild hot springs are an unforgettable experience. Remote and untouched, these natural pools—like the stunning turquoise baths of Lisong Hot Spring—are often only accessible via a scenic hike. The journey is well worth it, rewarding you with breathtaking scenery and a true connection to the island's raw, volcanic landscape.
Transportation: Getting to Taiwan’s Hot Springs
Getting to Taiwan’s hot spring towns is easy, with a variety of transportation options depending on where you're headed.
Public Transportation
- MRT & Train: Hot spring towns like Beitou and Jiaoxi are directly connected to Taipei by MRT and train, making them perfect for a simple day trip or a quick escape.
- Bus: For destinations a bit further out, like Wulai and Guanziling, local buses are a convenient and affordable way to get there from nearby cities.
Private & Self-Drive Options
- Private Car & Shuttle: For the most flexible and convenient experience, consider hiring a private driver or using a service like tripool. This is an excellent option for exploring multiple hot spring areas in a single trip without worrying about navigation.
- Self-Drive Adventures: If you're comfortable driving in Taiwan, renting a car gives you the ultimate freedom to explore at your own pace. It's the best way to access remote wild springs and scenic mountain routes that are off the beaten path.
Seasonal Guide to Taiwan's Hot Springs
While you can enjoy Taiwan’s hot springs all year long, each season offers a unique experience that can enhance your visit.
Winter (December–February) This is the peak hot spring season. The crisp, cool air and chilly nights make soaking in the warm, therapeutic waters an incredibly relaxing and cozy experience, especially at mountain resorts.
Spring (March–May) As the weather turns mild, cherry blossoms bloom in many hot spring areas like Wulai and Yangmingshan. Soaking in a warm bath while surrounded by delicate floral beauty makes for a truly scenic and memorable trip.
Summer (June–August) When Taiwan's heat sets in, it's time to head to the cold springs of Su'ao and Jiaoxi. These unique, naturally cool and refreshing waters offer a perfect escape from the summer humidity.
Autumn (September–November) Autumn is an ideal time for a mountain hot spring getaway. The changing foliage adds a charming, rustic beauty to the scenery, making it a perfect season for photography and combining a hike with a warm, well-deserved soak.
Further Reading:
Taiwan Weather: The Complete Year-Round Guide for TravelersFAQs About Visiting Taiwan's Hot Springs
Q: Do I need to wear a swimsuit?
It depends on where you go. In public, gender-separated baths (known as "nude baths"), clothing is not allowed. However, in mixed-gender pools at resorts and many hotel facilities, swimwear is required. Always check the rules of the specific location you're visiting.
Q: Are they suitable for children?
Yes! Many resorts and hotels have family-friendly pools. However, parents should always supervise children closely and check the water temperature to ensure it's safe.
Q: Can I visit hot springs with tattoos?
Unlike in Japan, most hot spring facilities in Taiwan are tattoo-friendly, so you won’t have a problem. That said, it’s always a good idea to check with more exclusive or high-end resorts, as some may have their own internal policies.
Q: How much does it cost?
The price varies widely. Simple public baths can be very affordable, typically costing around NT$100–200 per person. At the other end of the spectrum, luxury resorts and private rooms can charge NT$1,000 or more for a single session.
RTR’s Top Picks: Taiwan Hot Springs
At Round Taiwan Round (RTR), we believe hot springs are more than just a place to relax—they are cultural touchstones that reflect Taiwan’s natural beauty and history. For first-time visitors, Beitou is a must-visit. Easily reached from Taipei, it combines Japanese onsen heritage with a distinct Taiwanese character. For a family getaway, Jiaoxi stands out with its convenient location, outdoor foot baths, and family-friendly resorts. Meanwhile, adventure seekers will be drawn to Taiwan’s wild springs like Lisong, rewarding hikers with turquoise pools hidden deep in nature.
Heading south, Guanziling offers a rare mud hot spring experience that connects visitors to southern Taiwan’s laid-back lifestyle. For those seeking wellness with a touch of luxury, Zhiben in Taitung provides therapeutic mineral waters, rich in iron, surrounded by tranquil forest scenery. No matter which destination you choose, soaking in a Taiwan hot spring will leave you refreshed and deeply connected to the island’s natural heartbeat.