Beitou Hot Springs

The water of the Beitou Hot Springs is slightly acidic, has a distinctive ‘rotten eggs’ smell, and is generally at a temperature of between 37°C and 40°C. This creates a mist above its surface, which shrouds the entire valley, particularly on cold days. Further upstream is the appropriately named Hell Valley (sometimes known by the tamer and more scientifically-accurate name of Geothermal Valley), where the water temperature is consistently as high as 100°C and the natural springs visibly roil and boil. Naturally, this is much too hot to bathe in, but it's a remarkable sight to behold.

The Beitou Hot Springs Museum explains the growth of the region and the health benefits of the mineral-laden water, which are said to include treating fatigue, eczema and arthritis. There are many public baths around, as well as private spas and spa hotels. While traditional Japanese-style hot spring etiquette requires bathers be naked for their dip, the public outdoor springs are more conservative and demand that you wear a bathing suit.

Beitou Park and the neighbouring Qinshui Park – and the excellent range of relaxing spas which surround both – can be found directly adjacent to the Xinbeitou MRT Station. This is at the end of the Xinbeitou Branch Line, which splits off from the Red (2) Line at Beitou Station.