Water House is an excellent Hot Spring Hotel in Beitou with perhaps the best deal for the money in the area. Breakfast and private baths are included. There are also public bathing areas. The Hotel is also right next to Thermal Valley and the Beitou Hot Spring Museum. You can also book a hot spring experience with afternoon tea on KKday here. It is definitely a decent hotel worth considering in Beitou.
Planning your trip to Beitou? Here are some top travel tips for you:
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 Willie’s Deli is an American-style deli and grocery store in Tianmu, Beitou District, Taipei City. The deli sells American-style beef and pork sandwiches, and the store often sells imported products from the USA and Europe that are much sought-after by foreigners in Taiwan. If you are missing products from the USA or Europe, then this store is definitely worth a stop.
Table of Contents Historical Background: Willie’s Deli has been in business since 1979 and has specialized in providing products for the expat community in Taipei. Hours: 11 AM to 9 PM Closed Tuesdays Activities: Besides soaking in hot springs, there are many activities available in Beitou such as Rock Climbing, Water Skiing, Kani Kimono Rental, Escape Experience, Beitou Museum, and more on Klook here or KKday here. Tours:You can check out tours to Beitou such as a Beitou and Yangmingshan Day Tour, Beitou and Yeliu Day Tour, Beitou and Tamsui Day Tour, Beitou and National Palace Museum Tour, Beitou Muslim Friendly Tour, Beitou Arts and Culture Tour, Flower Season Tour, and more on Klook here or KKday here. You can also check out the Beitou Fun Package from KKday which includes a one-day transportation coupon, hot spring coupon, and coupon for over 8 souvenir shops in Beitou. Where to Stay: High end: We have stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We also recommend Fullon Hotel which has locations in Tamsui and Fulong near the beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). Budget Hotels: We have stayed at and also recommend Fu Chang Hotel in Ximending, which is within walking distance of Ximending shopping district (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We have also stayed at and recommend Hai Xia Your Home which is right in front of Fulong Beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan. Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here. How to get there: By MRT/Bus: Take the MRT to Zhishan MRT station. From there you can take the 616 bus to Sanyu Temple stop. You can book tickets to travel to Taipei via inter-city bus on Klook here. By Car/Scooter: From downtown Taipei, take Provincial Highway 2 north to Shipai Road and turn east until it turns into Tianmu Road. There is limited paid parking nearby. Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? Check out Klook here, or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here. By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan’s landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan’s many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. Map: Please see a map below: 
Guandu Wharf (關渡碼頭, aka Lingshan Temple) is a popular riverside area in Beitou District of Taipei. Along with a bike path with beautiful wildlife and river scenery, there is a ferry terminal and a small night market to check out. Nearby you can also check out Guandu Temple and Guandu Nature Preserve. It is definitely worth a visit on your next trip to Taipei.
□ Planning your trip to Taipei? □ Here are some top travel tips for you:
Historical Background: Guandu was originally known as Gantoumen 干豆門 (literally dried beans gate). Positioned with Guanyin Mountain and Datun Mountain behind it and facing the Tamsui River, it became a crucial port due to its strategic location. In the early days, settlers arrived in northern Taiwan through Guandu Wharf to establish their homes and cultivate the land, leading to the early development of the area. However, over time, sediment build-up at the mouths of the Keelung and Tamsui Rivers caused a decline in water transportation. Guandu Wharf sits adjacent to Guandu Nature Park and Guandu Temple. On holidays and in the evenings, visitors frequently stroll and relax around the wharf. It’s also a popular spot for cyclists, with many riding from Bali via the Guandu Bridge or from Tamsui to enjoy the beautiful scenery. It's an ideal location for sightseeing. The Taipei Ferry Company started operations in 2003, but due to sedimentation, many ferry routes along the Tamsui and Keelung Rivers have been shut down. Since 2023, a small night market has been set up near the wharf. Price: Free Hours: 7 AM to 5 PM Tours: You can book a 2-hr Raohe Night Market Walking Private Tour with a Tour Guide, or Taipei at Night: Din Tai Fung Dinner & Raohe Street Night Market Guided Tour on KKday here, or Klook here . Where to stay: High end: We have stayed at and recommend the Nangang Marriott (book on Booking.com here or Agoda here). We have also stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here or Agoda here). Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan. Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here. Ferry Routes:
How to get there: By Ferry: Please see the ferry routes above. Many ferry routes may close due to sedimentation. As of the time of writing, only the Tamsui to Fisherman's Wharf ferry was running on a daily basis. For the latest ferry information, please check the Ferry website here. By MRT: Take the MRT red line to Guandu Station. The wharf is about a ten minute walk to the west. You can also book an MRT travel pass on Klook here. By Car: If you travel there by car, there is lots of paid parking near the wharf. If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here. By Scooter: There is free parking next to the wharf. Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? You can search on Klook here or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy, and there are many bike paths nearby. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan's many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. You can also book a Sunset Riverside Bike Ride and Historical Tour, 4 Hour Cycling in Taipei, Ultimate 8-Hour Cycling City Tour, or Taipei City Bike Tour with Night Market Experience on TripAdvisor here. For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here. Map:  Beitou Park is a large park near Xinbeitou MRT Station with a hot spring river running through it. It is a nice place to enjoy natural scenery inside the bustling Beitou hot springs district. The park is also full of history, dating back to the Japanese area, and there are many interesting sites within the park.
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Historical Background: Beitou Park (aka New Beitou Park) was the third park established in Taipei City, following Yuanshan Park and 228 Peace Memorial Park, and was the first hot spring park in Taiwan, covering an area of approximately 3.98 hectares. During the Japanese era of Taiwan in 1901, the completion of the railway between Taipei and Tamsui led to a surge in visitors to Beitou. In 1911, Beitou Park was established and included features such as water channels, fountains, and public bathhouses. On June 17, 1913, Beitou Park officially opened, and the Beitou Hot Spring Public Bathhouse was constructed at that time. The bathhouse was managed by the public health office of the Taipei District and cost a total of 56,000 yen to build. Alongside the bathhouse, the surrounding environment was also improved. In April 1916, the New Beitou Line, a railway branch from Beitou Station, was completed to facilitate access to the hot springs. The park featured a circular plaza with planted trees, ponds, small bridges, fountains, and benches for visitors to rest. Around the park, hot spring inns, restaurants, clubs, and other entertainment facilities were established, making the park the core area of Beitou’s hot spring tourism. The fountain in front of the library was featured in the movie Turn Left, Turn Right as the meeting place of the film’s protagonists. Local residents later petitioned to revert the park’s name to “Beitou Park,” arguing that the longer name “Beitou Hot Spring Waterside Park” was too cumbersome. In 2020, Beitou Park and its surrounding landscape, including the children’s playground, were officially registered as a cultural landscape of Taipei City. Hours: 24/7 Activities: Besides soaking in hot springs, there are many activities available in Beitou such as Rock Climbing, Water Skiing, Kani Kimono Rental, Escape Experience, Beitou Museum, and more on Klook here or KKday here. Tours: You can check out tours to Beitou such as a Beitou and Yangmingshan Day Tour, Beitou and Yeliu Day Tour, Beitou and Tamsui Day Tour, Beitou and National Palace Museum Tour, Beitou Muslim Friendly Tour, Beitou Arts and Culture Tour, Flower Season Tour, and more on Klook here or KKday here. You can also check out the Beitou Fun Package from KKday which includes a one-day transportation coupon, hot spring coupon, and coupon for over 8 souvenir shops in Beitou. Where to Stay: High end: We have stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We also recommend Fullon Hotel which has locations in Tamsui and Fulong near the beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). Budget Hotels: We have stayed at and also recommend Fu Chang Hotel in Ximending, which is within walking distance of Ximending shopping district (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We have also stayed at and recommend Hai Xia Your Home which is right in front of Fulong Beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan. Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here. How to get there: By MRT: Take the MRT to Xinbeitou MRT station. From there you can also take the S9 or S26 bus further up the mountain if needed. You can book tickets to travel to Taipei via inter-city bus on Klook here. By Car/Scooter: From downtown Taipei, take Provincial Highway 2 north to New Beitou MRT Station. Many of the hotels here provide free parking for guests. Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? Check out Klook here, or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here. By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan’s landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan’s many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. Map: Please see a list of places we will cover in the map below:  The Ketagalan Culture Center is an exhibition hall located in the Beitou District of Taipei City. The museum promotes indigenous culture through various exhibitions and events and includes a library. The best part is admission is free. It is definitely worth a stop on your next trip to Beitou.
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Historical Background: The name “Beitou” is a transliteration from the Ketagalan language, meaning “witch.” Over 400 years ago, it was home to the Ketagalan people. To preserve and promote indigenous culture and art, the Ketagalan Culture Center, managed by the Taipei City Government’s Indigenous Affairs Commission, was newly built and opened in November 2002. The Ketagalan Culture Center was established in 2002. Originally built on top of the Beitou Shinto Shrine. is an exhibition hall located in the Beitou District of Taipei City, near Beitou Park. The Ketagalan people were the early plains indigenous inhabitants of the Taipei area. The center is named after them and serves as a venue for promoting indigenous culture in Taipei City. The first three floors showcase indigenous artifacts and important collections from the Pingpu tribes. The public spaces of the center also serve as venues for performances, events, gatherings, and workshops, fostering emotional bonds within the urban indigenous community. The center also offers a thematic library with a diverse collection of books on Indigenous culture and art, helping visitors appreciate and understand Indigenous heritage. The center is usually not very crowded even on weekends and holidays. Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM Closed Mondays Activities: Besides soaking in hot springs, there are many activities available in Beitou such as Rock Climbing, Water Skiing, Kani Kimono Rental, Escape Experience, Beitou Museum, and more on Klook here or KKday here. Tours: You can check out tours to Beitou such as a Beitou and Yangmingshan Day Tour, Beitou and Yeliu Day Tour, Beitou and Tamsui Day Tour, Beitou and National Palace Museum Tour, Beitou Muslim Friendly Tour, Beitou Arts and Culture Tour, Flower Season Tour, and more on Klook here or KKday here. You can also check out the Beitou Fun Package from KKday which includes a one-day transportation coupon, hot spring coupon, and coupon for over 8 souvenir shops in Beitou. Where to Stay: High end: We have stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We also recommend Fullon Hotel which has locations in Tamsui and Fulong near the beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). Budget Hotels: We have stayed at and also recommend Fu Chang Hotel in Ximending, which is within walking distance of Ximending shopping district (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We have also stayed at and recommend Hai Xia Your Home which is right in front of Fulong Beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan. Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here. How to get there: By MRT: Take the MRT to Xinbeitou MRT station. The museum is within walking distance. You can book tickets to travel to Taipei via inter-city bus on Klook here. By Car/Scooter: From downtown Taipei, take Provincial Highway 2 north to New Beitou MRT Station. Many of the hotels here provide free parking for guests. Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? Check out Klook here, or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here. By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan’s landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan’s many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. Map: Please see a list of places we will cover in the map below:  Beitou ‘s Hot Spring Museum (北投溫泉博物館) was once the largest bathhouse in East Asia during the Japanese era, dating back to 1911. However, after its heyday, the bathhouse fell into disrepair. Now it has been renovated into a museum celebrating the hot spring history and culture in Beitou. It is a must-see if you visit Beitou.
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In 1894 during the Qing Dynasty, the first person to establish a hot spring in Beitou was German sulfur merchant Ouely. The following year, Japanese Rear Admiral Tsunoda Hidematsu and Taipei County Secretary Nirei Keiji inspected the hot springs. On November 10, 1895, Governor Kabayama Sukenori also visited, and a public bath area began to form near today’s Beitou Hot Spring Museum. In 1905 funds were raised to construct Puji Temple, dedicated to the goddess of hot springs, Kannon, to bless the local hot spring industry. In 1911, construction began on the Beitou Public Hot Springs which was established under the direction of the Taipei Prefecture, modeled after the hot springs of Izu in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan. It cost more than 56,000 yen to build, and construction was finally finished in 1913. In the late 1920s, members of the Japanese imperial family, including Prince Asaka Yasuhiko, visited Beitou’s public baths. In 1954, Beitou became a legally recognized red-light district. The practice was abolished in 1979, and Beitou has since shifted focus to tourism and leisure. In the 1960s and 1970s, the number of hot spring inns in Beitou peaked, with over 70 inns in operation. However, from 1975 onwards, the industry began to decline due to poor management, lack of public infrastructure, and excessive development. In 1995, a local movement to save the Beitou Public Bathhouse succeeded, leading to its restoration as the Beitou Hot Spring Museum, which was designated a historic site in 1998. In 1999, the Tourism Bureau declared it the “Year of Beitou Hot Springs,” revitalizing the industry. Beitou Hot Springs, along with Caoshan, Guanziling, and Sichongxi Hot Springs, was one of the four major hot springs in Taiwan during the Japanese era. Beitou Hot Springs is a popular tourist attraction, especially with local Taiwanese people and Japanese tourists. The winter is the most popular season. Hours: 10 AM to 6 PM Closed Mondays Price: Free Activities: Besides soaking in hot springs, there are many activities available in Beitou such as Rock Climbing, Water Skiing, Kani Kimono Rental, Escape Experience, Beitou Museum, and more on Klook here or KKday here. Tours:You can check out tours to Beitou such as a Beitou and Yangmingshan Day Tour, Beitou and Yeliu Day Tour, Beitou and Tamsui Day Tour, Beitou and National Palace Museum Tour, Beitou Muslim Friendly Tour, Beitou Arts and Culture Tour, Flower Season Tour, and more on Klook here or KKday here. You can also check out the Beitou Fun Package from KKday which includes a one-day transportation coupon, hot spring coupon, and coupon for over 8 souvenir shops in Beitou. Where to Stay: High end: We have stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We also recommend Fullon Hotel which has locations in Tamsui and Fulong near the beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). Budget Hotels: We have stayed at and also recommend Fu Chang Hotel in Ximending, which is within walking distance of Ximending shopping district (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We have also stayed at and recommend Hai Xia Your Home which is right in front of Fulong Beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan. Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here. How to get there: By MRT: Take the MRT to Xinbeitou MRT station. The museum is about a five-minute walk from the MRT station. You can book tickets to travel to Taipei via inter-city bus on Klook here. By Car/Scooter: From downtown Taipei, take Provincial Highway 2 north to New Beitou MRT Station. There is limited paid parking nearby. Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? Check out Klook here, or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here. By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan’s landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan’s many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. Map:Please see a list of places we will cover in the map below:  Thermal Valley (aka Geothermal Valley, Ghost Lake, Jade Spring Valley, or Hell Valley 地熱谷) is a bubbling and steaming turquoise pool, that is one of the sources of Beitou’s hot springs and one of only two green sulfur hot springs in the world. Here you can take a walk around the entire pool, enjoy the scenery, and understand more about the history and geology of the area. With convenient transportation from the MRT and free entrance, it is a popular tourist destination in Beitou. It is definitely a must-see spot if you visit Beitou.
Table of Contents Historical Background: Thermal Valley is called Ghost Lake or Hell Valley because the constant steam and rising heat evoke an eerie image of hell. In the past, some visitors have accidentally fallen into the scalding hot springs and were tragically burned to death, which is why it is also known as “Hell Valley.” The narrow definition of Beitou Hot Springs categorizes the springs by their composition: the geothermal springs of Thermal Valley (green sulfur springs, 50–90°C and highly acidic), the white sulfur springs of Sulfur Valley (pH of 3–5, and a temperature of about 45°C), and iron-sulfur springs located in Upper Beitou (neutral carbonate hot springs, with a lower temperature of about 40–60°C). During the Japanese occupation period, Geothermal Valley was rated as one of Taiwan’s eight scenic spots and twelve landscapes, renowned as “Sulfur Spring Jade Mist.” This is due to the mesmerizing play of light and steam in the morning when the sunlight hits the rising steam, creating an enchanting, dream-like scene. The water’s faintly green, jade-like clarity led some to call it “Jade Spring Valley.” The spring contains trace amounts of radium, which is said to have health benefits, and supplies hot springs to nearby public bathhouses or hotels near Beitou Park. In earlier times, locals would bring eggs to Geothermal Valley to cook “hot spring eggs.” However, due to scalding incidents and environmental concerns, this practice was stopped. The Taipei Water Department, responsible for maintenance, also noted that the hot springs are sulfate and sulfate chloride springs with heavy metals, which pose health risks and are not recommended for cooking eggs. The government renovated Thermal Valley in 2023, channeling the spring water into a lake surrounded by pathways and railings. There are pavilions along the walkways where visitors can enjoy the view, and shallow stone and concrete water channels that were previously available for free foot soaking, but that are now closed off. The city government has incorporated Thermal Valley into Beitou Hot Spring Park, now designated as the Beitou Hot Springs Water Park. The area is usually popular, especially on weekends and holidays. Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM Activities: Besides soaking in hot springs, there are many activities available in Beitou such as Rock Climbing, Water Skiing, Kani Kimono Rental, Escape Experience, Beitou Museum, and more on Klook here or KKday here. Tours: You can check out tours to Beitou such as a Beitou and Yangmingshan Day Tour, Beitou and Yeliu Day Tour, Beitou and Tamsui Day Tour, Beitou and National Palace Museum Tour, Beitou Muslim Friendly Tour, Beitou Arts and Culture Tour, Flower Season Tour, and more on Klook here or KKday here. You can also check out the Beitou Fun Package from KKday which includes a one-day transportation coupon, hot spring coupon, and coupon for over 8 souvenir shops in Beitou. Where to Stay: High end: We have stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We also recommend Fullon Hotel which has locations in Tamsui and Fulong near the beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). Budget Hotels: We have stayed at and also recommend Fu Chang Hotel in Ximending, which is within walking distance of Ximending shopping district (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We have also stayed at and recommend Hai Xia Your Home which is right in front of Fulong Beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan. Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here. How to get there: By MRT: Take the MRT to Xinbeitou MRT station. From there you can walk about ten minutes to Thermal Valley. You can book tickets to travel to Taipei via inter-city bus on Klook here. By Car/Scooter: From downtown Taipei, take Provincial Highway 2 north to New Beitou MRT Station. There is limited paid parking nearby. Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? Check out Klook here, or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here. By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan’s landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan’s many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. Map:  Puji Temple (普濟寺 aka Lingquan Mountain Puji Temple 靈泉山普濟寺 or Tiezhenyuan, 鐵真院) is a Buddhist temple in Beitou, dating back to the Japanese era of Taiwan. It is one of the most well-preserved temples dating back to the Japanese era and is definitely worth a stop if you visit Beitou.
Table of Contents Historical Background: After the Japanese took control of Taiwan in 1898, three Buddhist monks of the Myoshinji Branch of the Rinzai Zen Sect were sent to Taiwan. In 1905 funds were raised from Railway Department employees to construct Puji Temple, dedicated to a statue of the goddess of hot springs, Kannon or “Guanyin of Hot Springs,” to bless the local hot spring industry. In January 1916, a shrine was hastily set up to hold a memorial service for the passing of Murakami Shoichi, an employee, even though the temple had not yet been completed. The local followers decided to name the temple “Tiezhenyuan 鐵真院” after Murakami. Construction began in 1915 and was completed in January 1916. The temple served as a place of worship and gathering for Railway Department employees in Beitou. In 1923, Crown Prince Hirohito visited the temple. In 1934 the temple underwent a major expansion and was officially recognized as a full temple. After World War II, the temple was renamed “Lingquan Mountain Puji Temple 靈泉山普濟寺.” In 1998, Puji Temple was listed as a historical monument. The temple suffered damage during the 921 earthquake in 1999 and was further impacted by heavy rains in 2000. A restoration project took place in 2000 to restore the area. Currently, the temple is popular on weekends and holidays, especially with tourists. Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM Price: Free Activities: Besides soaking in hot springs, there are many activities available in Beitou such as Rock Climbing, Water Skiing, Kani Kimono Rental, Escape Experience, Beitou Museum, and more on Klook here or KKday here. Tours:You can check out tours to Beitou such as a Beitou and Yangmingshan Day Tour, Beitou and Yeliu Day Tour, Beitou and Tamsui Day Tour, Beitou and National Palace Museum Tour, Beitou Muslim Friendly Tour, Beitou Arts and Culture Tour, Flower Season Tour, and more on Klook here or KKday here. You can also check out the Beitou Fun Package from KKday which includes a one-day transportation coupon, hot spring coupon, and coupon for over 8 souvenir shops in Beitou. Where to Stay: High end: We have stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We also recommend Fullon Hotel which has locations in Tamsui and Fulong near the beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). Budget Hotels: We have stayed at and also recommend Fu Chang Hotel in Ximending, which is within walking distance of Ximending shopping district (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We have also stayed at and recommend Hai Xia Your Home which is right in front of Fulong Beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan. Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here. How to get there:By MRT: Take the MRT to Xinbeitou MRT station. From there you can also take the S9 or S26 bus further up the mountain if needed. You can book tickets to travel to Taipei via inter-city bus on Klook here. By Car/Scooter: From downtown Taipei, take Provincial Highway 2 north to New Beitou MRT Station. Many of the hotels here provide free parking for guests. Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? Check out Klook here, or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here. By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan’s landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan’s many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. Map:  Xinbeitou Historic Station (aka New Beitou Station 新北投車站) is an old train station originally built by the Japanese to bring tourists to the Beitou Hot Spring area. Now it has been restored into a museum and gift shop for visitors to enjoy. It is definitely worth a stop on your next trip to Taipei.
Table of Contents Historical Background:The New Beitou train line, also known as the “Bath Line 湯線,” was a branch line of the TRA Tamsui line, connecting Beitou Station to the Beitou Hot Spring area, with a total distance of 1.2 KM. During the Japanese occupation, Hirata Gengo established Taiwan’s first hot spring inn, Tengu-an, in 1896, which spurred the development of the Beitou Hot Spring area. Soon, many other hot springs were formed in the area, including the Beitou Public Hot Spring. The New Beitou line was finished in 1916, and was constructed solely for hot spring tourism. After it began operation on April 1, 1916, the New Beitou Line helped boost the development of the hot spring area, which at its peak in 1935, boasted 35 hot spring inns. However, during World War II, in 1945, the tracks were removed and repurposed for defense needs (allegedly to prevent Allied forces from landing by placing the rails along the Tamsui coastline). The line was restored in August 1946, after the war. The original terminal, Xinbeitou Station, was initially planned for demolition during the construction of the MRT Xinbeitou Branch Line in the 1990s. However, the Taipei City Government symbolically sold the station to the Taiwan Folk Village for one New Taiwan dollar, preserving it in Changhua County. The station was donated to Taipei City, after which a work team from the Taipei City Government began architectural surveys and structural numbering at the Taiwan Folk Village, after which the station was dismantled and transported back to Beitou for reconstruction. Reconstruction on the station began in 2014 and was completed in 2016. Currently, the station is a popular historical site in Beitou. Hours: 24/7 Activities: Besides soaking in hot springs, there are many activities available in Beitou such as Rock Climbing, Water Skiing, Kani Kimono Rental, Escape Experience, Beitou Museum, and more on Klook here or KKday here. Tours:You can check out tours to Beitou such as a Beitou and Yangmingshan Day Tour, Beitou and Yeliu Day Tour, Beitou and Tamsui Day Tour, Beitou and National Palace Museum Tour, Beitou Muslim Friendly Tour, Beitou Arts and Culture Tour, Flower Season Tour, and more on Klook here or KKday here. You can also check out the Beitou Fun Package from KKday which includes a one-day transportation coupon, hot spring coupon, and coupon for over 8 souvenir shops in Beitou. Where to Stay: High end: We have stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We also recommend Fullon Hotel which has locations in Tamsui and Fulong near the beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). Budget Hotels: We have stayed at and also recommend Fu Chang Hotel in Ximending, which is within walking distance of Ximending shopping district (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We have also stayed at and recommend Hai Xia Your Home which is right in front of Fulong Beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan. Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here. How to get there: By MRT: Take the MRT to Xinbeitou MRT station. From there you can also take the S9 or S26 bus further up the mountain if needed. You can book tickets to travel to Taipei via inter-city bus on Klook here. By Car/Scooter: From downtown Taipei, take Provincial Highway 2 north to New Beitou MRT Station. Many of the hotels here provide free parking for guests. Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? Check out Klook here, or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here. By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan’s landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan’s many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. Map: Please see a list of places we will cover in the map below:  Beitou Public Library, also known as Beitou Green Library (北投綠色圖書館), is perhaps the most beautiful library in Taiwan. Built inside Beitou Park, it has great views of the park and includes high ceilings, large windows, and wooden floors and walls harking back to the Japanese era. It is definitely worth a stop on your next trip to Beitou.
Table of Contents Historical Background: Beitou Library is a branch library of the Taipei Public Library system. It was originally established as a library under the Yangmingshan Management Office. In 1963, it was incorporated into the Taipei Public Library system. However, due to the use of beach sand in its construction and the insufficient strength of the concrete, the library was closed in 1987, and the building was demolished and rebuilt in 2002. The current library reopened in late 2006. The design focuses on integrating with the park’s natural environment, considering Beitou’s unique sulfurous geography by using wooden structures. The building also maximizes the use of large floor-to-ceiling windows to collect natural light. It is regarded as Taiwan’s first “green building” library, certified with a Diamond Grade Green Building Label. It is also perhaps Taipei’s most beautiful library. Hours:Monday9 AM–5 PM Tuesday8:30 AM–9 PM Wednesday8:30 AM–9 PM ThursdayClosed Friday8:30 AM–9 PM Saturday8:30 AM–9 PM Sunday9 AM–5 PM Activities:Besides soaking in hot springs, there are many activities available in Beitou such as Rock Climbing, Water Skiing, Kani Kimono Rental, Escape Experience, Beitou Museum, and more on Klook here or KKday here. Tours:You can check out tours to Beitou such as a Beitou and Yangmingshan Day Tour, Beitou and Yeliu Day Tour, Beitou and Tamsui Day Tour, Beitou and National Palace Museum Tour, Beitou Muslim Friendly Tour, Beitou Arts and Culture Tour, Flower Season Tour, and more on Klook here or KKday here. You can also check out the Beitou Fun Package from KKday which includes a one-day transportation coupon, hot spring coupon, and coupon for over 8 souvenir shops in Beitou. Where to Stay:High end: We have stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We also recommend Fullon Hotel which has locations in Tamsui and Fulong near the beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). Budget Hotels: We have stayed at and also recommend Fu Chang Hotel in Ximending, which is within walking distance of Ximending shopping district (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We have also stayed at and recommend Hai Xia Your Home which is right in front of Fulong Beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan. Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here. How to get there:By MRT: Take the MRT to Xinbeitou MRT station. From there you can also take the S25 bus Beitou Green Library. You can book tickets to travel to Taipei via inter-city bus on Klook here. By Car/Scooter: From downtown Taipei, take Provincial Highway 2 north to New Beitou MRT Station. There is limited paid parking nearby. Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? Check out Klook here, or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here. By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan’s landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan’s many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here.  The Beitou Museum (aka Taiwan Folk Art Museum 北投文物館) is a former Japanese-era Hot Spring hotel that has now been turned into a museum and art exhibition space in Beitou District of Taipei. The building also includes restaurants and great views of Beitou. It is a great place to enjoy the history and culture of Beitou.
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Historical Background:In 1894 during the Qing Dynasty, the first person to establish a hot spring in Beitou was German sulfur merchant Ouely. The following year, Japanese Rear Admiral Tsunoda Hidematsu and Taipei County Secretary Nirei Keiji inspected the hot springs. On November 10, 1895, Governor Kabayama Sukenori also visited, and a public bath area began to form near today’s Beitou Hot Spring Museum. In 1905 funds were raised to to construct Puji Temple, dedicated to the goddess of hot springs, Kannon, to bless the local hot spring industry. In 1913, a public hot spring bath was established under the direction of the Taipei Prefecture, modeled after the hot springs of Izu in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan. It cost more than 56,000 yen to build. In the late 1920s, members of the Japanese imperial family, including Prince Asaka Yasuhiko, visited Beitou’s public baths. The Beitou Museum was originally known as the Kazan Hotel and was built in 1921. It was known as the best hot spring hotel during the Japanese era and was used by Kamakazi pilots before their final flights. After the ROC took control of Taiwan, the building was converted into a dormitory for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and was known as the Old Moon Manor 佳山宿舍. Later the building was taken over by a private owner and remade into the Taiwan Folk Art and Antique House (臺灣民藝文物之家), which preserved folk art and aboriginal art. Its name was later changed in 1987 to the current name, Beitou Museum (北投文物館). In 1998, the museum was designated as a national historic site. It is one of the largest wooden structures left from the Japanese era. Later, the building underwent renovations from 2002 to 2008. The museum is usually not very crowded and provides great views of the area. Hours:10 AM to 6 PM Closed Mondays Price120 NT per person You can book tickets for a discount on Klook here or KKday here. Yiran House 怡然居: Set meals are about 500-1000 NT You can book a discount meal on Klook here.  Beitou Public Hot Spring (aka Millennium Hot Springs or Beitou Outdoor Public Hot Springs 北投公共溫泉) is a large outdoor public hot spring area in Beitou, Taipei. With a price of only 60 NT, and discounted tickets for locals, it is one of the most popular and economical ways to enjoy Beitou’s hot springs. It is definitely worth a stop on your next trip to Beitou.
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Historical Background: Beitou’s hot springs are distributed along the Huangxi Valley, with such springs as Thermal Valley Hot Springs, Sulfur Valley Hot Springs, Upper Beitou Hot Springs, Shuangchong Creek Hot Springs, and Longfeng Valley Hot Springs. The Beitou Hot Springs are categorized as green sulfur springs (Thermal Valley, 50–90°C and highly acidic), White Sulfur springs (Sulfur Valley, pH of 3–5 and a temperature of about 45°C), and iron sulfur springs (Upper Beitou, eutral carbonate hot springs, with a lower temperature of about 40–60°C). In 1894 during the Qing Dynasty, the first person to establish a hot spring in Beitou was German sulfur merchant Ouely. The following year, Japanese Rear Admiral Tsunoda Hidematsu and Taipei County Secretary Nirei Keiji inspected the hot springs. On November 10, 1895, Governor Kabayama Sukenori also visited, and a public bath area began to form near today’s Beitou Hot Spring Museum. In 1954, Beitou became a legally recognized red-light district. The practice was abolished in 1979, and Beitou has since shifted focus to tourism and leisure. In the 1960s and 1970s, the number of hot spring inns in Beitou peaked, with over 70 inns in operation. However, from 1975 onwards, the industry began to decline due to poor management, lack of public infrastructure, and excessive development. In 1995, a local movement to save the Beitou Public Bathhouse succeeded, leading to its restoration as the Beitou Hot Spring Museum, which was designated a historic site in 1998. In 1999, the Tourism Bureau declared it the “Year of Beitou Hot Springs,” revitalizing the industry. Beitou Hot Springs, along with Caoshan, Guanziling, and Sichongxi Hot Springs, was one of the four major hot springs in Taiwan during the Japanese era. Beitou Hot Springs is a popular tourist attraction, especially with local Taiwanese people and Japanese tourists. The winter is the most popular season. Beitou Public Hot Springs, the open-air hot spring bath at Beitou Park, also known as “Millennium Bath,” opened in December 1999. The bath covers an area of about 1,000 square meters and is designed with a Japanese architectural style, utilizing natural materials such as stone and wood. The ticket booth and restroom roofs are built with black tiles. To maintain a hygienic environment, there are strict rules for bathers: they must wear swimsuits, shower caps, and shower before entering the hot spring pool. The facility operates six different time slots each day for visitors to enjoy. In 2022, partial renovations were carried out to update the aging handrails, uneven flooring, pool filtration systems, doors, and shading nets over the hot spring area. Hours: 5:30–7:30 AM 8–10 AM 10:30 AM–1 PM 1:30–4 PM 4:30–7 PM 7:30–10 PM Price: 60 NT per person Rules:
Besides soaking in hot springs, there are many activities available in Beitou such as Rock Climbing, Water Skiing, Kani Kimono Rental, Escape Experience, Beitou Museum, and more on Klook here or KKday here.  Beitou is one of the best day trips near Taipei and a popular tourist location. As a result, many restaurants have opened in the area, especially around Xinbeitou MRT Station. In this guide, we will tell you how to enjoy food in this area like a local and eat your way through Beitou.
Please note that this is not a comprehensive guide. For the latest prices, opening hours, and other information, you should check Google. Table of Contents
 Marshall Zen Garden (also known as Shaoshuai Zen Garden 少帥展館) was originally a Japanese era Inn and home to Zhang Xueliang, an outcast Chinese warlord who spent more than 50 years on house arrest here. Now it has been renovated and converted into a restaurant, museum, and hot spring bath. Sitting in the hills of Beitou, it has great views of the surrounding area and Mount Guanyin. It is a great place to enjoy the scenery in Beitou.
Table of Contents Historical Background:Marshall Zen Garden was originally known as Xintaka Inn 新高旅社 which was built in 1920. Later, during the Japanese occupation of Taiwan, served as a comfort station for Kamikaze pilots before their suicide missions. In the 1960s, Zhang Xueliang 張學良, the “Young Marshal” (Shaoshuai 少帥 in Chinese) who was placed under house arrest by Chiang Kai-shek, and also lived here in seclusion with his wife, Zhao Yidi 趙一荻. Zhang Xueliang, who lived through significant moments in Chinese modern history, was born in 1901 and was the son of a Chinese Warlord. After his father’s assassination by the Japanese in 1928, Zhang Xueliang took over leadership and played a critical role in the unification of China. Zhang initiated the Xi’an Incident. The Xi’an Incident occurred in December 1936, when Zhang Xueliang and Yang Hucheng detained Chiang Kai-shek to force him to stop the civil war against the Chinese Communist Party. They demanded that Chiang focus on uniting with the communists to resist the growing threat of Japanese invasion. As a result, Chiang harbored deep hatred for Zhang especially because of losses during the Chinese Civil War, and kept him under house arrest for more than 50 years. Following the suggestion of Soong Mei-ling and with the approval of Chiang Ching-kuo, Zhang purchased the land with his own money and built a residence. He remained there until 1995, when he moved to Hawaii and sold the property. Xueliang passed away in Honolulu in 2001, at the age of 101, concluding a life that spanned a century and mirrored China’s turbulent history. Marshal Zen Garden is now a popular spot for tourists and can get crowded on the weekends. 
Guandu Nature Park (關渡自然公園) is a large park a nature reserve in Beitou District of Taipei. The park was originally planned to be turned into a stadium but was saved by wildlife conservationists who were concerned about the birds and wetlands within the park. The area includes bike trails, bird-watching observatories, and walking trails. It is definitely worth a visit on your next trip to Taipei.
Here you can also enjoy Guandu Wharf and Guandu Temple. Click on the links above for our full blogs on these three areas. Historical Background: Around 1700 during the Qing Dynasty, the area around Guandu Nature Park was a vast body of water. By 1875, it had been reclaimed and converted into farmland. However, after 1955, due to groundwater extraction in the Taipei Basin causing land subsidence, the construction of the Guandu Dike, and the rerouting of the Keelung River, this area frequently experienced flooding, and the farmland outside the dike was gradually abandoned and swamps and mangrove forests began to form in the area. The wetland and migratory bird habitat in front of Guandu Temple soon became a focal point for birdwatchers. The Taipei Birdwatching Association wrote to the city government asking to establishment a protected area. In 1983, the Taipei City Government under Taipei Mayor Lee Tung-Huii designated the grassy marshlands from south of the Guandu Dike to the tip of Shezi Island at the mouth of the Keelung River as the "Taipei Guandu Waterbird Ecological Conservation Area." Plans were also made for a nature park. Guandu Nature Park The mudflats outside the Guandu Dike were designated as the "Guandu Nature Reserve" in 1986. In 1996, the Taipei City Government officially established "Guandu Nature Park," defining the protected area to preserve the natural wetland and provide a space for conservation, education, recreation, and research. The park covers an area of 57 hectares and includes a nature center, coastal forest area, pond area, fiddler crab area, birdwatching areas, and more. In 2001, the Taipei City Government entrusted the management of Guandu Nature Park to the Taipei Birdwatching Society. Since 2012, Guandu Nature Park has let brackish water flow into the park during high tide to increase the environmental diversity of the wetlands. Currently, the mangrove forests are also expanding. Birds Seen in the Park:
Price: 60 NT per person Hours: 7 AM to 5 PM Tours: You can book a 2-hr Raohe Night Market Walking Private Tour with a Tour Guide, or Taipei at Night: Din Tai Fung Dinner & Raohe Street Night Market Guided Tour on KKday here, or Klook here . Where to stay: High end: We have stayed at and recommend the Nangang Marriott (book on Booking.com here or Agoda here). We have also stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here or Agoda here). Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan. Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here. How to get there: By MRT: Take the MRT red line to Guandu Station. The temple is about a ten minute walk to the west. You can also book an MRT travel pass on Klook here. By Car: If you travel there by car, there is lots of paid parking near the temple. If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here. By Scooter: There is free parking next to the temple. Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? You can search on Klook here or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy, and there are many bike paths nearby. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan's many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. You can also book a Sunset Riverside Bike Ride and Historical Tour, 4 Hour Cycling in Taipei, Ultimate 8-Hour Cycling City Tour, or Taipei City Bike Tour with Night Market Experience on TripAdvisor here. For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here. Map:  Wondering where to stay in the Beitou Hot Spring Area (北投最佳的溫泉英文介紹)? There are so many hot spring hotels in this area, that it may be hard to choose from. There are many hotels within walking distance from the MRT station as well as museums and historical sites. There are also hotels that are more secluded and private. In this blog, I will take you on a virtual tour to discover the best hotels in Beitou.
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Activities in Beitou:Besides soaking in hot springs, there are many activites available in Beitou such as Rock Climbing, Water Skiing, Kani Kimono Rental, Escape Experience, Beitou Museum, and more on Klook here or KKday here. Tours in Beitou:You can check out tours to Beitou such as a Beitou and Yangmingshan Day Tour, Beitou and Yeliu Day Tour, Beitou and Tamsui Day Tour, Beitou and National Palace Museum Tour, Beitou Muslim Friendly Tour, Beitou Arts and Culture Tour, Flower Season Tour, and more on Klook here or KKday here. You can also check out the Beitou Fun Package from KKday which includes a one day transportation coupon, hot spring coupon, and coupon for over 8 souvenir shops in Beitou.  Beitou is Taiwan’s Premiere Hot Spring area in Taiwan (北投溫泉). Originally built by the Japanese on natural hot spring water flowing down from Yangmingshan, this area is now springing with hot spring baths, hotels, museums, hikes, restaurants, and more. It is one of the best day trips near Taipei. In this guide, we will tell you how to enjoy this area like a local, and at the same time soak like Japanese royalty.
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Historical Background:Beitou’s hot springs are distributed along the Huangxi Valley, including areas like Shamao Mountain, Datun Volcanic Group, Qixing Mountain volcanic rock layers, and Jinshan Fault in northern Taiwan. These include Thermal Valley Hot Springs, Sulfur Valley Hot Springs, Upper Beitou Hot Springs, Shuangchong Creek Hot Springs (Xingyi Road Hot Springs Area), and Longfeng Valley Hot Springs. The narrow definition of Beitou Hot Springs categorizes the springs by their composition: the geothermal springs of Thermal Valley (green sulfur springs, 50–90°C and highly acidic), the white sulfur springs of Sulfur Valley (pH of 3–5 and a temperature of about 45°C), and iron sulfur springs located in Upper Beitou (eutral carbonate hot springs, with a lower temperature of about 40–60°C). Historical and Cultural Background In 1894 during the Qing Dynasty, the first person to establish a hot spring in Beitou was German sulfur merchant Ouely. The following year, Japanese Rear Admiral Tsunoda Hidematsu and Taipei County Secretary Nirei Keiji inspected the hot springs. On November 10, 1895, Governor Kabayama Sukenori also visited, and a public bath area began to form near today’s Beitou Hot Spring Museum. In 1905 funds were raised to to construct Puji Temple, dedicated to the goddess of hot springs, Kannon, to bless the local hot spring industry. In 1913, a public hot spring bath was established under the direction of the Taipei Prefecture, modeled after the hot springs of Izu in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan. It cost more than 56,000 yen to build. In the late 1920s, members of the Japanese imperial family, including Prince Asaka Yasuhiko, visited Beitou’s public baths. In 1954, Beitou became a legally recognized red-light district. The practice was abolished in 1979, and Beitou has since shifted focus to tourism and leisure. In the 1960s and 1970s, the number of hot spring inns in Beitou peaked, with over 70 inns in operation. However, from 1975 onwards, the industry began to decline due to poor management, lack of public infrastructure, and excessive development. In 1995, a local movement to save the Beitou Public Bathhouse succeeded, leading to its restoration as the Beitou Hot Spring Museum, which was designated a historic site in 1998. In 1999, the Tourism Bureau declared it the “Year of Beitou Hot Springs,” revitalizing the industry. Beitou Hot Springs, along with Caoshan, Guanziling, and Sichongxi Hot Springs, was one of the four major hot springs in Taiwan during the Japanese era. Beitou Hot Springs is a popular tourist attraction, especially with local Taiwanese people and Japanese tourists. The winter is the most popular season. |
Author 作家I am an American expat who has extensive experience living, working, and traveling in Taiwan. In my day, I had to learn many things about Taiwan the hard way. But I have come to learn that Taiwan is one of the best places in the world for Foreigners to live. This blog does not represent the opinions of every foreigner in Taiwan. I am just trying to help others learn more about this beautiful country. Categories
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