Set in a complex tectonic zone, long shaped by geothermal activity, Taiwan claims over 100 hot springs – one of the largest concentrations and varieties on the planet. These include lukewarm springs, mud and thermal springs, with temperatures above 36.7ºC, and rare salt water springs on the offshore Green Island.
The first hot spring resort was opened in 1896 under Japanese rule and the trend flourished until the end of World War II. Interest was revived in the late 1990s. Bathing is now widely enjoyed in natural mountain pools, modest bath-houses or luxury Zen-style hotels and spas. From family week-ends to corporate meetings, hot springs have become an integral part of Taiwanese culture, a way to ensure natural health and beauty in scenic surroundings and share quality time with relatives, colleagues or friends.
Taiwan Travel, Hot Springs Near Taipei and Across the Island
South of Taipei, odour-free sodium carbonate springs are found in Wulai, while north of the capital, Beitou, the closest, and Yangmingshan with its natural volcanic park, are renowned for their rich sulphur springs. Choices abound along both coastal strips, from Hinschu county to Taichung in the west, from Jiaoxi to Rueisuei and Jhiben, one of the best known resorts, in the east.
Suao in the northeast, has Taiwan’s only cool spring, a mere 22°C, but more thermal waters bubble and steam in the far south and in the central mountains. There, at over 1000 metres in Nantou county, Lushan claims the island’s highest hot spring resort, popular for its clear bicarbonate springs reaching 75-90ºC and romantic cherry blossom in season.
Natural Holistic Health and Beauty in Hot Spring Resort and Spa
Hot spring resorts may offer various amenities, ranging from aromatherapy and water massage beds to bubbling whirlpools, Chinese herbal pools or steam rooms. Some baths are family-oriented, others have separate areas for men and women, where bathing in the nude is allowed. Many have outdoor pools where the spectacular scenery of Taiwan's natural world helps promote well being and relaxation. You can just bathe in thermal waters or complete the experience with a hot stone massage or other spa ritual.
Rich in minerals, Taiwan’s hot springs are endowed with a range of health restoring properties. They are said to alleviate arthritis, gout and skin problems, relieve muscular pain and improve circulation. Above all, they relax mind, body and soul, opening the way for natural holistic health and beauty. Soaking eliminates toxins, increases the energy flow and enhances the feel good – look good factor, further encouraged by high levels of negative ions.
Bathing in Thermal Spring in Taiwan, Things to Know
Here are a few tips to bear in mind when bathing in a thermal spring in Taiwan.
- Avoid eating a full meal before bathing and don’t take alcohol into the pool area.
- Shower, or wash Japanese style with bucket and water scoop, before entering the water.
- Test the water with finger or toe.
- Always be discreet, this is not a fun park, it’s a place to relax in peaceful surroundings.
- Try alternating hot and cold baths every 10 minutes or so, as the Taiwanese do, with short breaks if you wish.
- Drink plenty of water before and after bathing.
- If you have a heart-related problem or other serious condition, ask your doctor’s advice before soaking in hot or cold springs.
Source: Taiwan A to Z Essential Cultural Guide by Amy C. Liu
Solange Hando - I am a travel writer, editor and photographer, contributing to a range of publications in the UK and worldwide.
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