Due to the influence of the Japanese between 1895 and 1945, the Taiwanese have become experts at relaxing in hot springs. Any visit to Taiwan isn’t complete without a trip to one of the nation’s exceptional hot springs resorts. In this article, we’ll go over the absolute best hot springs in Taiwan. Whether you want to splurge on a high-quality onsen or want a more authentic rustic experience, you should find the perfect hot spring for you below.
1. Beitou Hot Springs
We’ll start our list off with one of the most famous hot springs in Taiwan: Beitou. The Beitou area, which is extremely close to Taipei City, is one of the largest hot spring resorts in the world. All of the water in these hot springs comes from the nearby Datun Volcano group.
Before you jump into these soothing waters, be sure to visit the Beitou Hot Spring Museum to learn more about the history of this incredible region.
Since this resort is so large and so close to Taipei City, expect huge crowds of locals in the public spa zones on the weekends. For those who want a more intimate experience at Beitou, it’s highly recommended you visit during the weekdays or book a private spa treatment.
2. Lengshuikeng
If you know basic Chinese, then you should know that “lĕng” (Chinese: 冷) means “cold” and “shuǐ” (Chinese: 水) means “water.” Don’t let this name fool you! Although the Lengshuikeng is cooler compared with other hot springs in Taiwan, it’s still pretty hot at 104°F. Visitors can enter gender-segregated hot springs for a full experience or just dip their toes into a warm pool for a soothing foot bath. It’s a great idea to take a break from hiking in Yangmingshan National Park at this totally free hot spring area.
3. Onsen Papawaqa
The Onsen Papawaqa is one of the more expensive options on our list. The builders of the Onsen Papawaqa used traditional incense cedar wood in this elaborate resort’s design. Amazingly, all of this precious wood used here was collected from a massive flood in 2004. Not only was the cedar wood used in this onsen’s building design, it was also used in the various essential oils offered at the resort to help guests relax.
There are many packages you can book on your vacation to the Onsen Papawaqa, the lowest of which is NTD500. You can choose from either private or public baths. The luxurious Onsen Papawaqa is in the western region of Miaoli County very close to the famous Xueba National Park.
4. Governor General Hot Spring
Located in northern Jinshan District, the Governor General Hot Spring is one of the oldest hot springs in Taiwan. Since it was founded during Japanese occupation in 1939, expect a distinctly Japanese feel at this hot spring resort.
The greatest feature of this resort is the view visitors get from the naked open-air spas. Men can look at the Pacific Ocean while women get to enjoy a view of Yangmingshan.
For those who don’t feel comfortable with public nudity, there is a shared spa that requires swimming suits as well as a few private rooms at the Governor General Hot Spring.
5. Wenshan Hot Spring
Wenshan Hot Spring is one of the least visited hot springs in Taiwan. Unfortunately, many Taiwanese simply don’t even know this hot spring exists, and even fewer tourists have heard about it. You’ll find the Wenshan Hot Spring in a cave by the northern banks of the Liwu River in Tarako National Park.
Although Wenshan doesn’t have the luxurious facilities you’d find at other bigger name resorts, there’s everything you need to have an intimate and relaxing spa experience here. Definitely put in the effort to find this hidden spring if you want an authentic and intimate hot spring experience.
6. Tangweigou Hot Spring Park
If you’ve ever wanted to try a fishy pedicure, then Tangweigou Hot Spring Park is the place to be. Situated in the northeastern Yilan County, Tangweigou is best known for its foot baths where hundreds of fish are more than willing to eat up your dead skin. While the fish in this pond are nibbling at your feet, feel free to order a soothing cup of tea to help you better relax. In addition to the famous fish pedicure bath, there are also gender-segregated naked bathing areas here.
7. Hakoune Onsen
As you could tell from the name, the Hakoune Onsen is yet another one of the many Japanese-inspired hot springs in Taiwan. You’ll find Hakoune Onsen in the central Puli Township in-between massive mountains. Its location between these big mountains gives Hakoune Onsen a fabulously cool breeze that compliments the warm waters. There are both public and private baths available at Hakoune Onsen.
8. Zhaori Hot Springs
You’ll need to put in a bit of effort to get to Zhaori Hot Springs on Taiwan’s tiny Green Island, but it’s worth the extra work. Zhaori is so highly regarded by locals because it’s the only saltwater hot spring in the nation. In fact, Zhaori is in an elite group of three saltwater spas in the world. Many believe the added minerals from the seawater have extra therapeutic benefits for the skin and muscles.
All of the spas in this resort are heated by volcanoes and usually hover around 150°F. In case you were wondering, the other three saltwater spas are located in Italy and Japan.
9. Wulai Hot Springs
The Wulai District is a mountainous region to the south of New Taipei City that’s officially a region for Taiwan’s indigenous peoples. In addition to the famous hot springs in this region, you’ll also find many interesting things to see, especially if you’re into nature. There’s even a cable car and train here to help you get a better sense for the unique flora and fauna of this district.
You should have no issues finding hot spring hotels in Wulai. A few of the most popular names to look out for include Gwoji Hotel, Long Men, and Pause Landis.
Summing Up
As you can see, there are many remarkable hot springs in Taiwan to choose from. No matter what you’re looking for in your hot spring experience, you should’ve found one name on the list above that suits your needs. Just remember to practice proper spa etiquette by always showering before entering a public bath and tying up your hair. Of course, if you have any serious conditions like high blood pressure, consult your doctor before going in one of these hot springs.