Looking for a hot spring near Taipei? We got you covered!
In this week’s series of 【OWNRIDES suggests】, we bring you a list of 5 hot springs near Taipei, as well as some tips to help your experience! Hot springs are a great way to relax the body and revitalise the mind. If you need any help getting to any of these locations, be sure to check out OWNRIDES.com to book a private driver for your journey.
1. Beitou Hot Springs (北投溫泉)
Beitou is widely known amongst locals and visitors alike. It is a train ride away from Taipei, therefore attracting many Taipei city dwellers to visit Beitou. People visit Beitou not only to immerse themselves in the relaxing hot springs, but to take in the beautiful scenery as well. Beitou is a great place to give peace to body and mind.
2. Jiaoxi Hot Springs (礁溪溫泉)
Termed “the hot springs of hot springs”, the Jiaoxi Hot Springs is one you can’t miss out. The locals also use water from the hot springs for agriculture, so do consider having a meal within the area to try the uniquely grown food.
Aside from the hot springs, there are also many fish foot spa we recommend you try! The little fish in the spa essentially nibble away at the dead skin on your feet, leaving them baby-smooth.
3. Wulai Hot Springs (烏來溫泉)
Wulai is another popular area for hot springs. If you have plans to visit the majestic Wulai Falls or shop along the charming Wulai Old Street, perhaps you could add on hot springs to your itinerary. What makes the Wulai Hot Springs special is that the area is inhabited by the Ayatal people. The Ayatal Tribe is one of the biggest of Taiwan’s aboriginal tribes. Therefore, Wulai provides a unique chance to learn more about the Ayatal people, their culture, and cuisine.
4. Yangmingshan Hot Springs (阳明山温泉)
The strategic location of the Yangmingshan Hot Springs, located within the well-known Yangmingshan National Park, makes the hot springs a highly popular attraction. The hot springs here a perfect way to relax and unwind after a day of trekking around the National Park and taking in the gorgeous scenery.
5. Jinshan Hot Springs (金山溫泉)
Jinshan is also another great place to visit for hot springs. Jinshan boasts four different types of hot springs – seabed, carbonated, sulfurous, and ferrous – the greatest variety compared to other hot spring areas. Moreover, Jinshan is located near the coast, so you could enjoy some picturesque ocean views as well.
If you do decide on going to any hot spring in Taiwan, here are a few tips OWNRIDES can provide you on hot spring etiquette:
1. Showering
Always thoroughly wash yourself before you use the hot springs. There will be shower facilities within the hot springs for you to do so. It is common courtesy for everyone to be clean so that we all can enjoy clean waters!
2. Swimming cap
Most public hot springs will require you to wear a swimming cap such that your hair does not touch the water. While it is likely that the caps are sold at the hot springs, it is still good to bring yours if you own one.
3. Public VS Private hot springs
Public hot springs usually do not have separate areas for male and female. Patrons therefore typically wear a swimsuit to public hot springs. We recommend you to bring along your own swimsuit if you’re planning to visit hot springs!
On the other hand, you can book private rooms (call ahead to ask!) at resorts or hotels for some privacy.
4. Gender-segregated hot springs
There are also gender-segregated hot springs available. You can do some research or ask the staff at the resort if the hot springs are gender-segregated or not. One thing to note is that patrons of gender-segregated hot springs often are expected to be fully nude. If you are uncomfortable with that, you can instead find a public or private hot spring.
5. Drink lots of water
Spending long times in the hot waters can, ironically, dehydrate you. For the sake of your own health, it is best to drink more water, and not stay in the hot waters for too long at a time.
Lastly, if you need any help getting to these hot springs – since some of them are quite a drive away from the city – check out OWNRIDES to book a private driver! We assure you transparency in our pricing, fair prices, and experienced drivers.
Have fun and be safe!
References:
Guanyinshan National Scenic Area Administration
Northeast and Yilan Coast National Scenic Area Administration
OWNRIDES 