An enchanting place enveloped by mist and dotted with hot springs, Beitou makes it hard to believe that the kind of respite it offers is just a 35-minute metro train ride away from bustling Taipei. This suburb set in the mountainous outskirts of Taiwan’s capital used to be one of the largest onsen parks under the Japanese rule. Today, it’s a popular destination for those who want to relax and rejuvenate their senses while communing with nature.
Thinking of visiting Beitou anytime soon? Read up on our guide for a perfect retreat:
How to get to Beitou
Getting to Beitou from Taipei’s city center is fairly easy via the MRT. Simply take the MRT Line 2 (Tamsui-Xinyi) and alight at Beitou Station. From Beitou Station, transfer to the MRT Xinbeitou Branch Line and step down at Xinbeitou Station. Alternatively, you may take the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle (Beitou-Zhuzihu Route).
Tip: If you’re just on a quick vacation, it would be best for you to get a Taipei Fun Pass, which entitles you to unlimited rides for 1 to 3 days in the city. Not only is it convenient, it’s also a far more cost-efficient way to get around.
Get it here:
Taipei Fun Pass (Pickup at Taoyuan Airport)
What to see
From hot springs to heritage buildings, Beitou is teeming with fascinating sights you wouldn’t see anywhere else in Taiwan.
Beitou Old Street District
Often overlooked, this area tucked between MRT Beitou and MRT Xinbeitou Stations is the oldest part of the Beitou District. Take a leisurely stroll around and explore some of its historic sites such as Lady Zhou’s Memorial Gate, the Beitou Granary, and the Fagushan Nongchan Temple.
Beitou Old Street District
Along Fengnian Road, Datong Street, Zhongzheng Street, and Qingjiang Road
Beitou Hot Spring Museum
It’s hard to miss this spot. Quite imposing, with its signature brick orange color, the Beitou Hot Spring Museum is a historic building imbued with rich history. Located in Beitou Park, this former bathhouse opened in the 1920s welcomes you to learn more about the district’s colorful past.
Beitou Hot Spring Museum
No. 2 Zhongshan Road, Beitou District, Taipei City
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Tue – Sun)
*Closed on Mondays and public holidays
Plum Garden
Stay on Zhongshan Road and walk towards this Japanese-style house. Built in the 1930s, it served as the summer home of statesman and renowned calligrapher Yu Youren. His works are still on display in the house if you wish to sneak a peek.
Plum Garden
No. 6 Zhongshan Road, Beitou District, Taipei City
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Tue – Sun)
*Closed on Mondays and public holidays
Thermal Valley
At the very end of Zhongshan Road, you will find Beitou’s most popular attraction—the Thermal Valley. Often compared to Beppu, Japan’s “Hell Spring,” it features aquamarine to turquoise blue sulfurous waters that look deceptively tempting. Needless to say, you can’t take a dip here. Some sights are best viewed from a distance.
Thermal Valley
No. 30-10 Zhongshan Road, Beitou District, taipei City
9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Tue – Sun)
*Closed on Mondays
Beitou Museum
Not to be confused with Beitou Hot Spring Museum, Beitou Museum can be found in a 1921 Japanese-style building. Formerly known as Kazan Hotel, it is a well-preserved heritage residence surrounded by gardens and viewing decks overlooking the town and mountains. It also hosts seasonal exhibits on art and culture. Its first floor has a teahouse, where you can experience an authentic Japanese tea ceremony.
Beitou Museum
No. 32, Youya Road, Beitou District, Taipei City
10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Tue – Sun)
*Closed on Mondays
Xinbeitou Hot Spring District
Enjoy the pleasures of Beitou in the hot spring district. Though most bathhouses are open throughout the day, this place is best visited at sundown, when the bathhouses emanate an inviting glow.
Where to stay
Complete your visit with a good night’s rest at The Gaia Hotel, an elegant and tranquil hotel nestled in the mountains of Beitou. During your stay, you may also take a healing soak at their outdoor hot spring before enjoying a savory meal or delightful tea in the afternoon.
The Gaia Hotel
11242 No. 1, Qiyan Road, Beitou District, Taipei City
(02) 5551 – 5588
service@thegaiahotel.com
thegaiahotel.com
