Are you planning a trip to Taiwan? Excellent, because I’m thrilled to share my insider knowledge about Beitou Hot Springs, a magical spot just outside Taipei that’s been my go-to relaxation haven for years.
I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make your Beitou hot spring visit in 2024 unforgettable and hassle-free. From the steamy Thermal Valley to the soothing mineral baths, we’ll cover it all. So, let’s get started!
Why Beitou Hot Springs Should Be on Your Taiwan Bucket List
Beitou Hot Springs, located in the Beitou district of Taipei, is a must-visit travel destination for anyone visiting Taiwan. These natural hot springs have been drawing visitors for over a century, offering a unique blend of relaxation, history, and culture. But what makes them so special?
First off, Beitou’s hot springs aren’t just any old pools of hot water. They’re rich in minerals like sulfur, which gives them that unique smell (kind of like eggs, but don’t worry, you’ll get used to it!). These minerals are great for your skin and can help with all sorts of aches and pains.
The area around Beitou Hot Springs is pretty cool too. You’ve got green mountains, steamy valleys, and a whole bunch of Japanese-style buildings left over from when Japan ruled Taiwan.
The History of Beitou Hot Springs
Beitou’s hot spring story began long ago with the Ketagalan tribe, the original inhabitants of the Taipei Basin. They called the area “Pataauw,” which means “Witch’s Home,” because of the year-round mist that covered the valley.
The Ketagalan tribe didn’t actually use the hot springs, though. It wasn’t until 1896 that a German guy named Hans Ulrich Reiner built the first hot spring club here.
Then, when Japan took over Taiwan in 1895, they saw the potential of Beitou. They built fancy hotels and bathhouses, turning Beitou into a hot spot (pun intended!) for Japanese visitors and rich Taiwanese folks.
The first hot spring establishment in Beitou was the Tenguan Hot Spring Hotel, which opened in 1896. This started Beitou’s transformation into a thriving hot spring resort town.
After World War II, when Japan left Taiwan, Beitou went through some tough times. But in the 1990s, locals started working to preserve the area’s history and revive its hot spring culture.
Today, Beitou Hot Springs offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Taipei. You can soak in mineral-rich waters, explore Japanese-era architecture, and immerse yourself in Taiwan’s hot spring culture, all just a short MRT ride from the city center.
When’s the Best Time to Visit Beitou Hot Springs?
Now, you might be wondering, “When should I plan my trip to Beitou?” Well, timing is key when it comes to enjoying hot springs. You want the weather to be cool enough so that soaking in hot water feels amazing, not sweaty.
In Beitou, the best time to visit is from October to March. Here’s why:
- October and November: The weather starts cooling down, making it perfect for a soak. Plus, if you’re lucky, you might catch the Beitou Museum’s hot spring festival in October!
- December to March: These are the chilliest months in Taipei. When it’s cold outside, those hot springs feel extra cozy.
- April to September: It’s warmer, but don’t let that stop you. You can still enjoy the springs, especially in the evenings when it cools down.
Here’s a handy table to help you plan your visit to Beitou Hot Springs:
| Month | Average Temperature (°C) | Rainfall (mm) | Crowd Level | Hot Spring Enjoyment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 16 | 83 | High | Excellent |
| April | 22 | 170 | Medium | Good |
| July | 30 | 245 | Low | Fair |
| October | 24 | 148 | Medium | Very Good |
| December | 17 | 73 | High | Excellent |
Here’s a pro tip: try to visit on a weekday if you can. Beitou gets pretty crowded on weekends, especially in winter. And whatever you do, avoid Mondays! A lot of places in Beitou close on Mondays for cleaning and maintenance.
How to Get to Beitou Hot Springs from Taipei City Center
Getting to Beitou is super easy, thanks to Taipei’s awesome MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) system. Here’s how you do it:
- First, find your way to any MRT station in Taipei. Look for the Red Line, also called the Tamsui-Xinyi Line.
- Hop on a train heading towards Tamsui. This is at the northern end of the line.
- Ride until you get to Beitou Station. It’s about a 30-minute trip from Taipei Main Station.
- At Beitou Station, follow the signs to transfer to the Xinbeitou Line. It’s a cute little pink train that only goes between two stations!
- Take the pink train one stop to Xinbeitou Station.
And voila! You’re in hot spring paradise. The whole trip from central Taipei takes about 30-40 minutes and costs around 30-40 New Taiwan Dollars (about 1-1.30 USD).
Once you’re at Xinbeitou Station, you’re right in the heart of the hot spring area. Most of the main attractions are just a short walk away. You’ll see signs pointing you to Beitou Hot Spring Park, which is a great place to start your adventure.
If you’re not into public transport or have a lot of luggage, you’ve got other options:
- Taxi: You can grab a taxi from anywhere in Taipei. It’ll cost more (around 300-400 NTD or $10-13 USD from central Taipei), but it’s faster and more comfortable. Just make sure to tell the driver you want to go to Xinbeitou (新北投), not just Beitou.
- Bus: There are several bus routes that go to Beitou, like the 216, 218, and 230. They’re cheaper than the MRT but can take longer, especially in traffic.
- Car: If you’re renting a car, you can drive to Beitou. It’s about a 30-minute drive from central Taipei, but parking can be tricky, especially on weekends. There are a few public parking lots near Xinbeitou Station, but they fill up fast.
Remember, whichever way you choose, aim for Xinbeitou. That’s where all the hot spring action is!
What You’ll See at Beitou Hot Spring Park
Alright, so you’ve made it to Xinbeitou Station. Now what? Well, your first stop should be Beitou Hot Spring Park. It’s like the living room of Beitou – where everything happens.
As soon as you step out of the station, you’ll see the park stretching out in front of you. It’s a beautiful green space with a hot spring creek running right through the middle. This creek is fed by the nearby Thermal Valley, which we’ll talk about later.
Here’s what you can expect to see in the park:
| Attraction | Description | Key Features | Opening Hours | Admission Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hot Spring Creek | Steamy creek running through the park | -Water from Thermal Valley -Extremely hot-No touching allowed | 24/7 | Free |
| Beitou Hot Spring Museum | Former public bathhouse turned museum | -Historic architecture -Exhibits on Beitou’s history -Old photos and artifacts | 9 AM – 5 PM (Closed Mondays) | Free |
| Beitou Public Library | Eco-friendly library resembling a wooden ship | -20,000+ book collection -Solar power system -Rainwater collection | 8:30 AM – 9 PM (Weekdays) 9 AM – 5 PM (Weekends) Closed Mondays | Free |
| Millennium Hot Spring | Large public outdoor hot spring | -Multiple pools of varying temperatures -Popular with locals -Affordable | 5:30 AM – 10 PM Closed briefly for cleaning between sessions | 60 NTD |
| Plum Garden | Former summer home of Yu Youren, a famous calligrapher | -Traditional Chinese garden -Calligraphy exhibits -Peaceful atmosphere | 9 AM – 5 PM Closed Mondays | Free |
The park is free to enter and open 24/7. It’s a great place to start your Beitou adventure, get your bearings, and soak up the atmosphere before you, well, soak in the springs!
Your Must-Visit Spots in Beitou Hot Spring Area
Now that you’ve got a feel for the park, let’s talk about the must-see spots in Beitou. These places will give you a real taste of what makes Beitou so special.
Take a Dip in the Thermal Valley (Hell Valley)
First up is Beitou Thermal Valley, also known as Hell Valley. Don’t worry, it’s not actually hell – it just looks a bit like it might be!
The Thermal Valley is this huge pool of jade-green water that’s always steaming. The water here is crazy hot – we’re talking about 80 to 100°C (176 to 212°F)! That’s hot enough to boil an egg. In fact, locals used to cook food here using the steam.
You can’t swim in Beitou Thermal Valley (unless you want to be human soup), but it’s super cool to see. The steam rising off the water, the smell of sulfur in the air – it’s like being on another planet. This is where a lot of the hot spring water in Beitou comes from.
The valley is free to visit and open from 9 AM to 5 PM every day except Monday. There’s a little souvenir shop if you want to grab something to remember your visit by.
Step Back in Time at Beitou Hot Spring Museum
Next stop: Beitou Hot Spring Museum. This place is a must-visit for anyone interested in Beitou’s history or cool architecture.
The Beitou Hot Spring Museum building itself is pretty special because it used to be the Hokuto Public Bathhouse, built way back in 1913. It’s this cool mix of Western and Japanese architecture, with red bricks on the first floor and wooden walls on the second.
Inside, you’ll find all sorts of interesting stuff:
- Old photos showing what Beitou looked like back in the day
- Displays explaining how hot springs work
- A big tatami room upstairs that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time
- An 800-kg sample of Hokutolite, a mineral that’s only found in Beitou!
The museum is open from 9 AM to 5 PM, Tuesday to Sunday and it’s totally free to enter! Just remember to take off your shoes when you go in – they’ll give you slippers to wear inside.
Chill Out at the Eco-Friendly Beitou Public Library
Now, I know what you’re thinking. “A library? On vacation?” But trust me, the Beitou Public Library is not your average library.
The Beitou Public Library looks like a giant wooden ship that’s sailed right into the middle of the park. It’s super eco-friendly – they use solar power and even collect rainwater for the bathrooms.
While you can’t take photos inside (it’s a working library, after all), it’s worth popping in to see the interior. The big windows let in tons of light, and you get great views of the park. If you’ve got time, grab a book and chill on one of the reading terraces.
The library is open from 8:30 AM to 9 PM on weekdays and 9 AM to 5 PM on weekends. It’s closed on Mondays like a lot of places in Beitou.
Explore the Historic Plum Garden
Last but not least, we’ve got Plum Garden. The Plum Garden is a cute little museum that used to be the summer home of Yu Youren, a famous Chinese calligrapher and politician.
The house is set in a beautiful garden full of plum trees (hence the name), camphor trees, and sweet olive bushes. If you’re lucky enough to visit in January, you might catch the plum blossoms in bloom!
Inside Plum Garden, you can see some of Yu Youren’s calligraphy and learn about his life. The house itself is pretty interesting too – the bottom floor was used as an air raid shelter during World War II.
Plum Garden is open from 9 AM to 5 PM, Tuesday to Sunday. Like a lot of places in Beitou, it’s free to visit!
Which Beitou Hot Springs Should You Try?
Alright, now we’re getting to the good stuff – the hot springs themselves! Beitou has tons of options, from public baths to fancy private rooms. Let’s break down some of the best places to take a dip.
Soak in the Popular Millennium Hot Spring
First up is Millennium Hot Spring, also called Beitou Public Hot Spring. This is the go-to spot for budget travelers and locals alike. It’s right in Beitou Park, so you can’t miss it.
Here’s what you need to know about Millennium Hot Spring:
- Price: Super cheap at just 60 TWD (about $1.90 USD)
- Hours: Open in shifts throughout the day. First session starts at 5:30 AM, last one ends at 10 PM.
- What to bring: Swimsuit, towel, and shower supplies. They’ve got lockers you can use.
- What to expect: Several outdoor pools of different temperatures. It can get crowded, especially on weekends.
One thing to remember: there’s a dress code here. No bikinis for ladies, and guys need to wear tight swim shorts. They sell appropriate swimwear if you need it. Also, everyone needs to wear a swimming cap, which you can buy there if you don’t have one.
Enjoy Family-Friendly Bathing at Spring City Resort
If you’re traveling with kids or just want a more upscale experience, Spring City Resort is your best bet. It’s a bit further from the MRT, but they’ve got a free shuttle bus.
Here’s the scoop on Spring City Resort:
- Price: About 1,000 TWD (around $31 USD) for adults, but you can often find deals online
- Hours: Open daily from 6 AM to 2 AM
- What to bring: Just yourself! They provide everything else, including towels and lockers.
- What to expect: Multiple outdoor pools with different temperatures, great views, and top-notch facilities.
Spring City is great because it’s more relaxed about bathing suits and allows kids. Plus, the views of the surrounding mountains are killer!
Experience Traditional Bathing at Longnice Hot Spring
For a taste of old-school Beitou, head to Longnice Hot Spring. This place has been around since 1913 and even got a visit from the Japanese Crown Prince back in the day!
Here’s what you need to know about Longnice:
- Price: 150 TWD (about $4.70 USD) for the public bath, 400-600 TWD for private rooms
- Hours: Public bath open 6 AM to midnight, private rooms noon to 6 PM
- What to bring: Just a towel – no swimsuits allowed in the public bath
- What to expect: Traditional Japanese-style bathing, separate areas for men and women
Longnice is a great place to experience traditional hot spring culture. Just remember, in the public baths, you’ll be bathing nude (separated by gender). If you’re not comfortable with that, you can rent a private room instead.
Escape the Crowds at Kawayu Spa
If you want to get away from the tourist spots, check out Kawayu Spa. It’s a bit off the beaten path, which means fewer crowds.
Here’s the lowdown on Kawayu Spa:
- Price: 200 TWD (about $6.30 USD) for the public bath, private rooms available too
- Hours: 5:30 AM to 2 AM daily
- What to bring: Towel and bathing supplies
- What to expect: A more local vibe, beautiful traditional Japanese architecture
Kawayu Spa feels like stepping into a Studio Ghibli movie because the building is gorgeous, and the atmosphere is super relaxing. It’s a bit harder to get to (you’ll need to take a bus or taxi from Xinbeitou), but it’s worth it for the peaceful experience.
Here’s a handy comparison table of these hot spring options:
| Hot Spring | Price (TWD) | Best For | Atmosphere | Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Millennium | 60 | Budget travelers | Lively, local | Basic |
| Spring City | 1000 | Families | Resort-like | Luxurious |
| Longnice | 150-600 | Traditional experience | Old-school Japanese | Basic to moderate |
| Kawayu | 200+ | Escaping crowds | Tranquil, local | Moderate |
The options above are just a few of the many hot springs in Beitou. Don’t be afraid to explore and find your own favorite spot!
Where You Can Stay in Beitou: Hot Spring Hotels for Every Budget
If you’re looking to really soak up the Beitou hot spring experience, why not stay overnight? There are tons of great hotels in the area, ranging from budget-friendly spots to super fancy resorts. Let’s check out some options:
| Hotel Name | Price Range (NTD) | Distance from MRT | Special Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kyoto Spring Hotel | 2,000 – 3,500 | 15 min walk | Private tubs in all rooms |
| Chyuan Du Spring Resort | 3,000 – 5,000 | 2 min walk | Park views |
| Gaia Hotel | 5,000 – 8,000 | 10 min walk | 20,000 book library |
| Radium Kagaya | 6,000 – 10,000 | 5 min walk | Geisha greeters |
| Grand View Resort | 15,000 – 25,000 | 15 min walk | Hillside views |
| Villa 32 | 20,000+ | 10 min walk | Ultra-exclusive (5 rooms only) |
Budget-Friendly Hot Spring Hotels in Beitou
Don’t worry if you’re watching your wallet – you can still enjoy a hot spring hotel experience in Beitou without breaking the bank.
One of the best budget options is Kyoto Spring Hotel. It’s a small, Japanese-style place that’s about a 15-minute walk from Xinbeitou MRT station. The rooms are simple but clean, and they all come with private hot spring tubs! Prices start at around 2,000 NTD (about $65 USD) per night.
Another good choice is Chyuan Du Spring Resort. It’s super close to Xinbeitou MRT and right on the edge of Beitou Hot Spring Park. Some rooms even have views of the park! Prices here start at about 3,000 NTD (about $98 USD) per night.
Mid-Range Hot Spring Hotels for a Comfortable Stay
The Gaia Hotel is a popular mid-range option. It’s got a cool library with over 20,000 books, and the hot spring facilities are top-notch. They’ve got both public and private hot spring options. Rooms here start at around 5,000 NTD (about $163 USD) per night.
Another great choice is the Radium Kagaya International Hotel. This place is hard to miss – they often have staff dressed as geishas greeting guests out front! The rooms are beautiful and they have some of the best hot spring facilities in Beitou. Prices start at about 6,000 NTD (about $196 USD) per night.
Luxury Hot Spring Resorts for the Ultimate Pampering
The Grand View Resort Beitou is probably the most famous luxury hotel in the area. It’s perched on a hillside with amazing views over Beitou. The rooms are huge and beautifully designed, and the hot spring facilities are out of this world. Be prepared to shell out, though – rooms start at around 15,000 NTD (about $490 USD) per night.
For the ultimate in exclusivity, there’s Villa 32. This place only has 5 rooms, so it feels super private. Each room has its own hot spring tub, and the design is absolutely stunning. It’s adults-only (no kids under 16), and prices start at a whopping 20,000 NTD (about $653 USD) per night.
What to Eat in Beitou: Local Flavors and Hot Spring Treats
All that soaking is sure to work up an appetite! Luckily, Beitou’s got some great eats. Here’s a quick comparison of some Beitou dining options:
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Price Range (TWD) | Atmosphere | Specialty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Man Lai Ramen | Japanese | 100-200 | Casual | Hot spring ramen |
| Tian Lai | Taiwanese | 150-300 | Local, homey | Set meals |
| King’s Resort | Fine dining | 500-1000 | Upscale | Seafood |
| Beitou Museum | Japanese | 880+ | Historic | Kaiseki sets |
| Marshall Zen | Chinese-inspired | 1800+ | Elegant | Unique set meals |
Try Beitou’s Famous Hot Spring Eggs and Ramen
Hot spring eggs aren’t your regular boiled eggs – they’re cooked slowly in the hot spring water, which gives them a super silky texture. You can find them at little stands around Beitou, often near the hot springs.
Another must-try food in Beitou hot springs is hot spring ramen which is available in two popular spots: Man Lai Hot Spring Ramen and Mankewu Taiwanese Style Ramen. Both are near Beitou Hot Spring Park.
The hot spring ramen noodles are cooked in mineral-rich hot spring water, which is supposed to make them extra tasty. A bowl will set you back about 150-200 NTD (about $5-7 USD).
Savor Seafood and Traditional Taiwanese Dishes
Beitou might be inland, but it’s still got some great seafood options. One local favorite is baby squid, often served lightly boiled with a chili garlic sauce. You can find this at many of the traditional Taiwanese restaurants in the Beitou hot springs area.
For a real local experience, look for places serving “ginger duck” (薑母鴨). This hearty soup is perfect after a soak in the hot springs. It’s made with duck, ginger, Chinese herbs, and rice wine. It’ll warm you up from the inside out!
Dine in Historic Japanese Buildings for a Unique Experience
For a special meal, check out the restaurant at the Beitou Museum which serves beautiful multi-course Japanese meals in a historic Japanese-style building. It’s a bit pricey (around 880 NTD or $29 USD for a set meal), but the food is delicious and the atmosphere is unbeatable.
Another option is Marshal Zen Garden. This place used to be a fancy hot spring hotel during the Japanese era. Now you can enjoy traditional Taiwanese and Japanese cuisine while soaking in the historic atmosphere. Prices here start at about 1,800 NTD (about $59 USD) for a set meal.
How to Explore Beyond Beitou Hot Springs
While the hot springs are definitely the main attraction, there’s plenty more to see and do in and around Beitou. Let’s check out some options for when you’re done soaking:
Hike the Trails of Yangmingshan National Park
Yangmingshan National Park is right next door to Beitou, and it’s a great place to get some fresh air and amazing views. The park is home to Mount Qixing, the tallest mountain in Taipei at 1,120 meters (3,675 feet).
Here are some popular trails:
- Qixing Mountain Trail: This is the most famous hike in the park. It’s about 4 km (2.5 miles) round trip and takes 2-3 hours. The views from the top are spectacular!
- Lengshuikeng Trail: This is an easier option, perfect if you’re with kids or just want a leisurely stroll. It’s about 1.5 km (0.9 miles) and takes about an hour.
- Xiaoyoukeng Trail: This one’s cool because it takes you past some active fumaroles (volcanic vents). It’s about 2.5 km (1.5 miles) and takes around 1.5 hours.
To get to Yangmingshan from Beitou, you can take the S9 Beitou-Zhuzihu shuttle bus from Xinbeitou MRT station. The ride takes about 30 minutes and costs around 15 NTD (about $0.50 USD).
Find the Perfect Souvenirs in Beitou
Before you leave Beitou, you might want to pick up some unique souvenirs. Here are some ideas:
- Hot Spring Eggs: These hard-boiled eggs cooked in hot spring water make a great snack or gift. You can buy them in packs of 5 or 10 at many street stalls.
- Sulfur Soap: Many shops sell soap made with sulfur from the hot springs. It’s said to be good for your skin and costs about 50-100 TWD (1.60-3.20 USD) per bar.
- Beitou Stone: Remember that unique mineral I mentioned earlier? You can buy small pieces of it as souvenirs. Prices vary but expect to pay around 200-500 TWD (6.40-16 USD) for a small piece.
- Local Crafts: Check out the Ketagalan Culture Center gift shop for indigenous crafts and art. You can find beautiful woven bags, jewelry, and pottery here.
You can find most of these at shops around Beitou Hot Spring Park or at the Thermal Valley souvenir shop. Don’t be shy about bargaining, especially if you’re buying multiple items!
Helpful Tips Before Visiting Beitou Hot Springs Taipei
Before you jump into those steamy waters, there are a few things you should know to make your visit smooth and enjoyable:
Beitou Hot Spring Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts
Respecting local customs is super important when visiting hot springs. Here are some key rules to follow:
Do’s:
- Shower before entering the hot spring. There are usually shower facilities provided.
- Start with the cooler pools and gradually move to hotter ones. This helps your body adjust.
- Stay hydrated. Drinking water before, during, and after your soak is crucial.
- Tie up long hair to keep it out of the water.
Don’ts:
- Don’t wear swimsuits in traditional public baths. These are nude bathing areas separated by gender.
- Don’t dive or splash in the pools. Hot springs are for relaxing, not playing.
- Don’t stay in the water for too long. Limit your soak to 15-20 minutes at a time.
- Don’t bring food, drinks, or electronic devices into the hot spring area.
How Much to Budget for Your Beitou Trip
Beitou can be enjoyed on various budgets. Here’s a rough guide to help you plan:
| Category | Item | Cost (TWD) | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transportation | MRT from Taipei to Xinbeitou (one way) | 30-40 | 1-1.30 |
| Bus to Yangmingshan (one way) | 15 | 0.50 | |
| Hot Springs | Public baths | 40-200 | 1.30-6.40 |
| Private rooms (60-90 minutes) | 400-2000 | 13-64 | |
| Food | Street food/quick meals | 50-150 | 1.60-4.80 |
| Restaurant meals | 200-500 | 6.40-16 | |
| High-end dining | 1000+ | 32+ | |
| Accommodation | Budget hotels (per night) | 2000-3000 | 64-96 |
| Mid-range hotels (per night) | 3000-6000 | 96-192 | |
| Luxury resorts (per night) | 8000+ | 256+ | |
| Attractions | Most museums and parks | Free | Free |
For a day trip to Beitou hot springs from Taipei, you could get by on as little as 500-1000 TWD (16-32 USD) per person. For an overnight stay with some luxury experiences, budget around 5000-10000 TWD (160-320 USD) per person.
Stay Safe and Healthy in the Hot Springs
Hot springs are great, but they can be dangerous if you’re not careful. Here are some safety tips:
- Don’t soak if you have open wounds, skin infections, or are pregnant.
- If you have heart problems or high blood pressure, check with your doctor before visiting hot springs.
- Don’t drink alcohol before or during your hot spring soak. It can make you dehydrated.
- If you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or uncomfortable, get out of the water immediately.
- The water in some springs, like Thermal Valley, is way too hot for bathing. Stick to designated bathing areas.
Pro tip: hot spring water contains minerals that can stain light-colored swimsuits. It’s a good idea to bring an older suit or buy one there.
How to Plan Your Perfect Beitou Hot Spring Trip
Now that you know all about Beitou, let’s put it all together and plan your trip! I’ll give you two itinerary ideas – one for a day trip and one for a weekend getaway.
Beitou Hot Spring One Day Itinerary
If you’ve only got a day to spare, here’s how to make the most of it:
- 9:00 AM: Take the MRT to Xinbeitou Station.
- 9:30 AM: Start at Beitou Hot Spring Park. Visit the Beitou Hot Spring Museum to learn about the area’s history.
- 11:00 AM: Walk up to Thermal Valley to see the steaming “Hell Valley.”
- 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at one of the hot spring ramen shops.
- 1:30 PM: Visit the Beitou Public Library and Plum Garden.
- 3:00 PM: Time for a soak! Choose between Millennium Hot Spring for a public bath experience or splurge on a private room at one of the hotels.
- 5:00 PM: Do some souvenir shopping around the park area.
- 6:30 PM: Dinner at a local restaurant or back in Taipei.
This day trip itinerary gives you a taste of everything Beitou has to offer in just one day. You’ll see the main sights, learn about the history, and get to experience the hot springs yourself.
How to Spend a Relaxing Weekend in Beitou
If you’ve got a whole weekend, you can take things slower and add in some extra experiences. Here’s a suggested two-day Beitou hot springs itinerary:
Day 1:
- 10:00 AM: Arrive at Xinbeitou Station and check into your hotel.
- 11:00 AM: Explore Beitou Hot Spring Park, visit the Hot Spring Museum and Plum Garden.
- 1:00 PM: Lunch at a local restaurant.
- 2:30 PM: Visit Thermal Valley and the Ketagalan Culture Center.
- 4:30 PM: Enjoy a soak in your hotel’s hot spring or try out Spring City Resort.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner at one of the historic buildings like Beitou Museum or Marshall Zen Garden.
Day 2:
- 8:00 AM: Early morning soak in the hot springs.
- 9:30 AM: Breakfast at your hotel or a local cafe.
- 10:30 AM: Take the shuttle bus to Yangmingshan National Park.
- 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM: Hike one of the trails in Yangmingshan.
- 3:30 PM: Return to Beitou.
- 4:30 PM: Final hot spring soak before heading back to Taipei.
- 6:30 PM: Dinner in Beitou or back in Taipei.
This weekend itinerary allows you to fully immerse yourself in the Beitou hot spring experience while also exploring the beautiful nature in Yangmingshan National Park.
Remember, these are just suggestions. Feel free to mix and match based on your interests and energy levels. The beauty of Beitou is that everything is pretty close together, so it’s easy to adjust your plans on the fly.
And there you have it – your complete guide to Beitou hot springs in Taipei! Whether you’re looking for a relaxing soak, a history lesson, or a nature adventure, Beitou’s got something for everyone. So pack your swimsuit and get ready for a steamy good time in one of Taiwan’s coolest (or should I say hottest?) destinations!
