Taipei, the bustling capital city of Taiwan, is known for its lively night markets, delicious street food, and incredible skyscrapers. But just a short MRT ride away, you’ll find the peaceful town of Beitou, a hidden gem that’s famous for its natural hot springs and beautiful surroundings. Beitou is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a relaxing getaway. The town has a rich history and culture, and visitors can learn about the area’s past at its many museums and cultural attractions. Beitou is also a great place to experience local life and try authentic Taiwanese food. In this blog post, we will explore the top things to do in Beitou, so get ready to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and rich culture of this hot spring town!
Beitou Park 北投公園
Located in the heart of Beitou, Beitou Park is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. This park offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, with its lush greenery and serene ponds providing a picturesque backdrop for relaxation and recreation.
With its well-maintained paths and trails, Beitou Park is a popular spot for walking, jogging, and cycling. The park is also home to a number of historic buildings and landmarks, in addition to various amenities and facilities for visitors to enjoy.
Image source: Beitou Hot Spring Resort’s FB page
Stay at a Hot Spring Resort
One of the best ways to fully experience the hot springs in Beitou is to stay at a hot spring resort. These resorts offer guests the opportunity to soak in the mineral-rich waters, and some also provide luxurious amenities and services, such as spa treatments, gourmet dining and comfortable accommodation.
Image source: Beitou Hot Spring Resort’s FB page
Whether you’re looking to escape the stresses of daily life, celebrate a special occasion, or simply enjoy a rejuvenating break, a hot spring resort stay in Beitou is the perfect way to indulge and unwind.
Ketagalan Culture Center 凱達格蘭文化館
The Ketagalan Culture Center is a great place to learn about the indigenous people of Taiwan. The center features a range of exhibits and displays that showcase the history, traditions, and lifestyle of the Ketagalan people, providing visitors with a unique insight into this vibrant and fascinating culture. They also host a variety of events and activities throughout the year, including performances, and festivals.
Image source: Ketagalan Culture Center’s FB page
If you’re interested in history, anthropology, or simply want to learn more about the indigenous cultures of Taiwan, visiting the Ketagalan Culture Center is definitely something you should do.
Taipei Public Library 臺北市立圖書館北投分館
If you’re looking for a quiet place to relax and read a book, head over to the Taipei Public Library – Beitou Branch, which boasts a contemporary design with environmentally-friendly features. The library has an extensive selection of reading materials, including books, magazines, and multimedia materials, that cater to a variety of interests.
With cosy reading nooks, the library has a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes it a perfect place to spend a rainy day or take a break from soaking in the hot springs.
Fuxing Park Hot Spring Foot-Soaking Pool
Fuxing Park has a complimentary foot soak area available to the public, where individuals can immerse their feet in the hot spring water. The majority of visitors to this spot are local residents, particularly the elderly folks.
It’s a great way to relax and unwind after a long day of exploring.
Xinbeitou Historic Station
The Xinbeitou Historic Station is a charming railway station that was originally built in 1916 during the Japanese colonial era.
Today, the station has been converted into a museum that showcases the history and culture of the locality, including the station and the Tamsui Line.
Thermal Valley 地熱谷
Beitou Thermal Valley, also known as Hell Valley, is a natural hot spring located in Beitou. With its steaming light green waters, the thermal valley is a sight to behold and offers a unique experience for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. The high temperature and sulfuric content of the water create a distinctive aroma and are said to have therapeutic benefits.
Visitors can enjoy a relaxing stroll along the nearby trail and take in the scenic beauty of the area.
Beitou Hot Spring Museum 北投溫泉博物館
For those interested in the history of hot springs in Beitou, the Beitou Hot Spring Museum is a great place to explore. The museum is situated in a charming early 20th century Japanese-style building.
It features exhibits on the geology of the area, the cultural significance of the hot springs, and the development of the hot springs over the years.
Image source: Department of Information and Tourism – Taipei City Government’s website
Beitou Public Hot Spring
If you’re looking for a more authentic hot spring experience, head over to the Beitou Public Hot Spring. This public bathhouse is a great place to meet locals and soak in the natural hot spring water. Admission to the hot spring is affordable. The fee starts at around NT$40 per person, making it an accessible option for budget-conscious travellers.
Image source: Department of Information and Tourism – Taipei City Government’s website
If you want to soothe sore muscles or simply enjoy a peaceful soak in the hot springs, then a visit to the Beitou Public Hot Spring is highly recommended.
Beitou Plum Garden
Beitou Plum Garden is a unique museum housed in the former residence of the renowned calligrapher, Yu Youren. This museum offers a glimpse into the life and legacy of one of the most celebrated calligraphers in modern Chinese history.
Beitou Market
A trip to Beitou Market is a must-do when visiting the area, as it provides an excellent opportunity to get a glimpse of local life. During the day, the market offers a wide selection of fresh produce including fruits, vegetables, meats, and seafood, as well as sections for dried goods, household items, and other goods. In addition, there are numerous ready-to-eat food stalls where you can indulge in traditional Taiwanese delicacies such as braised meat rice, salt water chicken, rice dumplings, taro ball dessert, and much more.
When the sun sets, the nearby vicinity turns into a lively night market teeming with street food vendors. You can try out a diverse range of mouthwatering local treats like shaved ice, rice vermicelli, and tian bu la.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Beitou is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Taipei. With its natural hot springs, beautiful parks, and cultural attractions, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an exciting adventure, Beitou has it all. So pack your bags, grab your swimsuit, and get ready to discover Taipei’s hot spring town!
