Are you thinking about traveling to Beitou? Nestled in the northernmost part of Taipei City, Beitou is most renowned for its natural hot springs. It is a haven for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. But Beitou is much more than just a backdrop for movies. It is a treasure trove of attractions waiting for you to explore. From transportation tips to the most sought-after hot spring recommendations. From cultural and historical landmarks to the delectable local cuisine. This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to make the most of your Beitou travel. So, whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer stay, read on to discover the ultimate guide to Beitou Hot Springs. Immerse yourself in this captivating destination’s natural beauty and cultural richness.
Is Beitou Worth Visiting? Is Beitou Travel Worth it?
Source: merit-times.com
Still considering whether to put Beitou travel into your itinerary or not? While it heavily depends on each person’s preference, travel length and restrictions, let us try to provide you with a more concrete answer. Visiting Beitou is unquestionably worth it for those who enjoy hot springs, history and Japanese culture. Season and weather come into play too. Your experience will be a lot more pleasant if it’s not in the summer.
Since Beitou is very close to Taipei’s main hub, it can be easily reached and explored without a car. This makes it a perfect destination for those who are limited on time and transportation means. Thanks to its convenience and proximity, Beitou is definitely one of the best options when it comes to filling the awkward gaps between your other destinations. These are the main considerations for considering visiting Beitou or not (compared to other great attractions). However, we really do highly recommend to at least swing by as it is also one of the local’s favorite spot.
What is Special about Beitou Hot Spring?
Beitou Hot Springs offer a diverse range of therapeutic properties, thanks to the distinct water compositions of its various spring types: blue sulfur, white sulfur and iron sulfur.
Source: sci-tw.blogspot.com, The Gaia Hotel
Blue Sulfur
One primary spring type in the region is “Blue Sulfur,” located near the Geothermal Valley. This unique spring is characterized by its slightly acidic, sulfur-salt chloride composition. Its water is clear with a subtle jade-like hue. Notably, Blue Sulfur springs are a rarity in Asia, with only Beitou and Akita Prefecture, Japan, known to have them. Popular destinations like the open-air hot springs in Beitou Park, Takinoyu, and the Xinxiuge Grand Hotel feature this remarkable water. Blue Sulfur springs usually have higher temperatures, reaching up to 100 degrees Celsius. Therefore, blue sulfur is more suitable for activities like egg boiling and playful indulgence but definitely not direct soaking.
White Sulfur
Another prominent spring type found in Beitou is “White Sulfur.” These springs are primarily near the Sulfur Valley area. Unlike naturally hot springs, White Sulfur springs are fed by mountain spring water from Yangmingshan. The water has a milky appearance and a faint sulfur scent, earning it the nickname “Milk Baths.” Most hot spring hotels in Beitou feature White Sulfur springs, and these waters are reputed for their natural therapeutic properties, particularly beneficial for skin conditions, promoting normal blood circulation, and providing a sense of mental well-being.
Iron Sulfur
Additionally, there is a third spring type known as “Iron Sulfur,” mainly found in Upper Beitou, the northern part of the Shuangxi River, and the upper reaches of the Nanhuan River Valley, as well as in the vicinity of Yangmingshan National Park. Iron Sulfur springs have a neutral carbonate composition and feature clear water with iron deposits. They are often referred to as “Iron Baths” and are believed to offer a range of health benefits, making them a popular choice for those seeking relaxation and wellness.
How did Beitou Hot Spring Form?
Source: bobowin.blog
You will definitely learn a lot more once you visit the Beitou hot spring museum, but we want to paint a high level picture for you. Isn’t it amazing that Taipei, one of the busiest city in Asia, actually has natural hot spring? Well, if you didn’t know yet, Taipei is actually encircled by mountains. The Beitou Hot Springs have their origins in the northern valleys, specifically the Longfeng Valley and the Sulfur Valley. The formation of these hot springs comes from the geological activity in the region. Beitou sits within the Datun Volcanic Group, which is part of Taiwan’s volcanic belt.
This volcanic activity has resulted in the presence of a significant heat source beneath the Earth’s surface. The intense heat emanating from the Earth’s interior heats the groundwater that permeates the rocks and fissures in the area. As this superheated water rises towards the surface, it carries with it a rich assortment of minerals and sulfur compounds, giving Beitou’s hot springs their distinctive properties. The water’s journey through the Earth’s layers and its interaction with various minerals contribute to the unique composition and temperature variations found in different hot springs across the Beitou area. This natural geothermal phenomenon has made Beitou a sanctuary for those seeking the therapeutic and relaxing benefits of hot spring bathing, providing visitors with an opportunity to immerse themselves in the Earth’s geological wonders.
Best Time to Visit Beitou
Source: KKday
Beitou Hot Springs offer an exquisite escape from the bustling city life at any time of the year, but visiting during the winter months can be particularly enchanting. When the air is crisp, and the temperatures drop, the allure of immersing yourself in the naturally heated mineral waters becomes irresistible. Winter allows you to fully appreciate the contrast between the soothing warmth of the hot springs and the cool, refreshing atmosphere of the surrounding mountains. The summers in Taiwan can be quite grueling, making hot springs not the ideal experience. But this can be the most budget friendly times to experience a nice mineral-ful soak. Private hot springs in hotels is especially awesome since you have access to air-conditioned rooms.
It is worth noting that many hot spring establishments are closed on Mondays and during major holidays like the Lunar New Year. Therefore, it’s a good idea to plan your visit accordingly and check the specific operating hours of the hot spring venues you wish to explore during your getaway to Beitou.
Transportation: How to Get to Beitou?
Decided on a Beitou travel? Getting to Beitou is a straightforward journey, primarily using Taipei’s efficient MRT system, we circled out the destination on the map below. Start by taking the Red Line (Tamsui Line) and board a train heading to Tamsui. This line connects you to Beitou’s urban oasis. Once you’ve reached Beitou Station on the Red Line, you’re just one stop away from the heart of Beitou’s hot spring district. Transfer to the Xinbeitou Line, which is conveniently marked by a pink line on the MRT map. Board the Xinbeitou Line train heading to Xinbeitou Station (or New Beitou). In just one station, you’ll arrive at Xinbeitou Station, right in the heart of Beitou’s hot spring region. The ride from Taipei main station to Beitou area will take about 30 minutes, such a quick access to natural hot springs!
Despite being technically within Taipei City, Beitou feels like a charming suburban escape away from the bustling city center. From there, you can easily explore the various attractions and hot spring hotels Beitou has to offer. It’s a hassle-free and eco-friendly way to reach this picturesque suburb of Taipei.
Note: You can also start your Beitou trip at Beitou station. This allows you to explore Beitou Night Market while slowly walking towards XinBeitou, where most hot spring related activities are. Many hot spring hotels offer free shuttle transportation to and from the two stations (especially XinBeitou). Please do double check on each venue’s websites.
Recommended Hot Springs: Where to Find the Best Hot Springs?
Most people who come to Beitou are looking to enjoy a wam soak in the hot springs. Whether it’s after an exhausting plane ride or adding a soothing break during your exhilarating Taipei travels, Beitou should have something for you! Here, we will briefly outline and summarize the different types, styles and price range of hot spring options. We will also summarize a list of recommended places.
Source: KKday
Types of Hot Springs
Beitou offers a variety of hot spring experiences, depending on who you are traveling with and what your budget is some might be better than others.
- Public Hot Springs: Economical, communal baths managed by the local government, often crowded. Best for people with limited budget and time, or those who are not that interested in hot springs and just want a quick taste of it.
- Western/Taiwanese Hot Springs: Mixed-sex pools with a blend of Western and Taiwanese traditions. Often provide different herbal flavors and temperature. Suitable for most people and those that want to try a couple different springs.
- Japanese Style Hot Springs: Separate areas for men and women, nudity is customary, reflecting traditional onsen customs. Suitable for those craving a true Japanese hot spring experience and are traveling with people of the same gender.
- Private Room Hot Springs: Exclusive hotel options with personal tubs for 2-6 people. Usually more expensive, suitable for couples, families, small groups and those looking for more privacy.
- Natural Hot Springs: Rare formations without human intervention, but unfortunately scarce in Beitou due to extreme temperatures or shallow depths.
Beitou Public Hot Spring (Millennium Spring)
Source: 吳志學
The Beitou Public Hot Spring, also known as Millennium Spring, is situated near the New Beitou MRT Station. Drawing water from a geothermal valley, this chloride sulfate spring offers six pools, including four hot spring and two cold-water pools. The pool temperatures vary with elevation, giving visitors options. This affordable public bath is recommended for those not wanting to splurge on fancy hot spring hotels. The Yangmingshan Qianshan Park Hot Spring Baths was unfortunately closed in 2023 due to a lack of hot spring water. Operating hours are segmented throughout the day, and tickets cost NT$40 per person. There are discounted rates for seniors and free entry during the public welfare period from 08:00 to 10:00.
Hot Spring Hotel and Resort Recommendations
1. (Most popular) Spring City Resort
Source: Spring City Resort
Spring City Resort in Taipei is a well-established hot spring hotel with an outdoor open-air pool, making it a year-round destination. The rooms, featuring warm beige tones and nostalgic Guanyin stone and red cypress baths, contribute to a comfortable atmosphere. Despite its vintage feel, it’s advisable to make weekend reservations early. Also, don’t forget to wear swimsuits and swim caps for the outdoor baths.
2. (Most Luxury) The Gaia Hotel
Source: the Gaia Hotel
Named Taiwan’s top dream vacation spot, this hotel features an awe-inspiring four-story library extending through the lobby, providing genuinely warm and friendly service for an outstanding hot spring experience. The culinary offerings, ranging from Western and hot pot lunches to afternoon tea and dinner, boast exceptional quality and deliciousness.
3. (Most Cultural) Radium Kagaya Taipei
Source: Kagaya Taipei
Beitou’s Kagaya, Japan’s sole overseas branch, exudes a distinct Japanese ambiance in architecture, service, hot springs, and cuisine. The five-star hot spring hotel provides various room types with garden views and open-air baths, complemented by staff in traditional Japanese kimono. The hotel’s luxurious experience, featuring Japanese decor, landscaped gardens, a Japanese-style bar, tea ceremonies, doll performances, and personalized welcoming ceremonies. They all come at a reasonable price for an upscale Japanese-style retreat.
4. (Best Location) Nanfeng Tianyue
Source: Nanfeng Tianyue
Situated in proximity to Xinbeitou MRT Station, the Nanfung Eden Spring Spa Hotel provides convenient accessibility. The establishment encompasses expansive public pools spanning almost 400 square meters, including white sulfur spring pools, SPA hydrotherapy pools, cold pools, saunas, and steam rooms. For those desiring a more secluded experience, private hot spring rooms are offered as well. Rooms are complete with hot spring pools, cold pools, shower areas, and relaxation spaces. It stands as an alluring escape in Beitou.
5.(Best Style) Phoenix Pavillion Hot Spring Hotel
Source: Phoenix Pavilion Hot Spring Hotel
Phoenix Pavilion Hot Spring Hotel, a long-established Beitou hot spring retreat, preserves the charm of the hot spring era with Japanese-style wooden floors and natural stone hot spring baths. The hotel offers multiple room types, all featuring hot spring baths, bathrooms, shower amenities, hairdryers, and complimentary mineral water. If you appreciate traditional Japanese and Chinese decorations, this hotel is a wonderful recommendation in Beitou.
If you want more detailed recommendation and information (including location, price, offers). Please consult our other post: Beitou Hot Spring Recommendations: 7 Best Hot Springs that will Cleanse your spirit.
Top Attractions: What to do in Beitou?
What is there to do in Beitou other than hot springs? We understand no matter how wonderful a hot spring is, one cannot stay there the whole day. Well, what should you plan to do in your Beitou travel? Here we will list out and summarize all attractions that will certainly bring any visitors a great experience.
1. Geothermal Valley
Source: bunnyann.com
Geothermal Valley is home to the hottest springs in the Da Tun Shan region, with temperatures ranging from 80°C to boiling. Despite the intense heat, the valley is captivating, especially on sunny days when sunlight transforms it into an enchanting realm. Enter the park to enjoy a cute entry hand bath, explore the souvenir shop and the new riverside relaxation area. The “靈湯步道” (Spiritual Hot Spring Trail), a recommended feature, encircles the lake, offering a scenic, leisurely stroll along the lakeshore that mirrors Taiwan’s mountain ranges. The park is open from 9 AM to 5 PM, and admission is free all day.
2. Beitou Hot Spring Museum
Source: travel.taipei
Embark on a cultural exploration by visiting the iconic Beitou Hot Spring Museum, a focal point in Taipei’s Beitou district. The museum, once a public bathhouse during the Japanese colonial era, now offers free entry and guided tours. While contemporary visitors can’t experience the baths, the museum’s architecture beautifully blends Eastern and Western influences. The first floor, made of bricks, served as the bath area, while the second floor, a wooden structure, is a relaxation space with an Instagram-worthy entrance. The museum unveils the contrasting spaces allocated for women and children versus men, who enjoyed a spacious Roman-style bathhouse. Intricately embedded stained glass windows on the bathhouse’s outer walls once created a radiant atmosphere, making it the largest hot spring bathhouse in East Asia.
3. Beitou Plum Garden
Source: travel.taipei
This almost 90-year-old retreat, once owned by the “Grass Script Master” Mr. Yu You-ren, features Japanese wooden construction and is nestled beside the Beitou River. The garden’s design seamlessly blends with nature, creating an idyllic setting with Japanese architectural elements, courtyards, and a weekend artisan market. Mr. Yu You-ren personally inscribed the characters “梅庭” (Plum Garden) at the entrance, adding a personal touch to its historical charm. Conveniently located near the Beitou Hot Spring Museum and offering free entry, the garden invites visitors to a vibrant atmosphere, enhanced on Sundays with street performers.
4. Beitou Museum
Source: welcometw.com
Explore Beitou’s cultural heritage at the Beitou Museum, often referred to as “Taipei’s Little Kyoto” for its rich Japanese ambiance. Originally a luxurious hot spring resort during the Japanese colonial era, the museum now serves as a private museum and heritage site, preserving Beitou’s hot spring development and bathing culture. Beyond being a static relic, the museum offers a multifaceted experience through visual, gustatory, and hands-on explorations. The Japanese-style garden, a favorite Instagram spot, seamlessly blends topography, stones, ponds, and local features to create a serene landscape. The museum houses around 5000 preserved Japanese artifacts and features a large traditional Japanese tatami mat space, including a virtual reality simulation of a colonial-era bath experience. The museum’s restaurant serves exquisite kaiseki meals and Japanese afternoon tea.
5. Dharma Drum Mountain Nung Chan Monastery
Source: eatlovephoto.com
Dharma Drum Mountain, founded in 1989, is a global Buddhist organization promoting Buddhism’s teachings in modern life. The Nung Chan Monastery, part of Dharma Drum Mountain, offers a serene retreat by a pond. Inspired by Master Sheng Yen’s philosophy, the Water-Moon Dharma Hall features the impressive Diamond Sutra Wall, creating a dignified ambiance. Despite being slightly distant from Beitou travel main attractions, the monastery, with its tranquil environment, is a gem in your itinerary, providing a peaceful start or conclusion to your day.
6. Xinbeitou Historic Station
Source: bobowin.blog
Xinbeitou MRT station, also known as the New Beitou Train Station, is a historic landmark, representing the last remaining century-old station on the Tamsui Railway Line. Closed for a period due to the discontinuation of the Taipei-Tamsui Railway Line, the station has been revitalized with additional platforms, tracks, and trains, rejuvenating the area. Now, it offers attractions such as hot spring ramen, weekend markets, and complimentary hot spring hand baths, creating a blend of nostalgia and modernity. Conveniently accessible via the MRT, Xinbeitou Station is more than a transportation hub—it’s a multifaceted experience blending history, culture, and contemporary Beitou.
7. Taipei Public Library Beitou Branch
Source: travel.taipei
When planning a day trip to Taipei’s Beitou district, a visit to the Beitou Library is essential. Designed by architect Zhang Qinghua, it stands as Taiwan’s first green library and was recognized as one of the world’s 25 most beautiful public libraries in 2012. Renowned for its environmental sustainability, the library features a roof with lightweight ecological materials and solar panels for energy generation. The sloping grass roofs allow natural drainage, contributing to rainwater harvesting. The structure optimizes airflow, providing a cool atmosphere even in Taiwan’s hot summers without air conditioning. The library is a haven for literature enthusiasts and environmental advocates.
Again, if you want to learn more about top attractions and planning a trip to Beitou, we have recommended a couple itineraries in our detailed post: One Day Beitou Itinerary: Most Optimized Route to See Everything.
Best Food: What to eat in Beitou?
You certainly cannot finish your Beitou travel without eating! While hot spring is the highlight of this district, food around here is as good as many other places in Taiwan. In this section, we will list out common food locals enjoy after a great hot spring soak as well as specific restaurant recommendations.
1. Beitou Night Market
While not the most renowned night market in Taipei, it offers a vibrant atmosphere with a variety of delicious street food and dining options. For a more extensive night market experience, head to the expansive Shipai Night Market near MRT Shipai Station. Shipai Night Market provides an even greater variety of culinary delights and local treasures. Whether exploring Beitou’s charm or venturing to the bustling Shipai Night Market, both promise excellent food options for every taste. If you’re uncertain about lunch or dinner around Beitou, the Beitou Night Market is a great place to explore and immerse yourself in the local scenes.
2. Hot Spring Ramen
Source: TripAdvisor
One of the top food items to try is Hot Spring Ramen. Unrelated to using special hot spring waters or features, hot spring ramen is simply a great comfort food after a nice soak that stems from Japanese culture. They often come with onsen eggs (half boiled eggs) though! You will find plenty of ramen and noodle places around your hot spring hotel. We advise you to ask your host for recommendations or just choose the most convenient one, you really cannot go wrong.
3. Local Fruits
We highly encourage visitors to take some time and enjoy all the fruits Taiwan offers. Thanks to its subtropical weather and abundance of rainfall, many fruits grow easily in Taiwan. During your Beitou travel, take the time to pick out some fruits to try. To learn more about our local fruits and seasons, check out our 14 amazingly delicious fruits in Taiwan.
4. Restaurant and Food Stand Recommendations
Source: ifoodie.tw, TVBS
Beitou hides plenty of local recommended eateries, including Cai Yuan Yi Black Tea, exploding green onion pancakes and Chen Ji Fried Chicken and more. The local restaurant, Chang Wu Ji Mixed Noodles, has a great variety of noodle options to fulfill your crave. Feng Qing Yang Snack Shop is a local budget version of the renowned Ding Tai Feng. Common desserts include shaved ice, tofu puddings and more. We specifically recommend a place called Traditional Zenith Tofu Pudding. If you want more details of all the places we recommend, including address and menu items, check out our post on Best Food in Beitou,
Welcome to Beitou
And that is a wrap! We hope you have learned enough about Beitou travel to feel not only excited by also well-prepared. This post has outlined why Beitou is worth visiting, what is special about Beitou hot spring and who is it best for, which maybe helps our readers decide whether to spend their precious vacation time in the area. We also listed out the best time to visit and easy transportation to and within the area. Finally, the post offers recommendations on what people mostly look for. This includes hot spring hotels, top attractions and food options. If you have any more questions about traveling in Beitou, check out our other Beitou posts or shoot us a comment or email, we would be happy to help. Thanks and welcome to Taipei’s hot spring haven!
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