If Taiwan isn’t on your travel radar, it’s time to rethink your bucket list. This dynamic destination is a treasure trove of experiences, blending the best of urban excitement with cultural charm.
From its rejuvenating hot springs to breathtaking coastal drives, Taiwan offers a perfect escape that promises both relaxation and adventure. Ready to explore Taiwan’s pure bliss? Let’s dive in!
Nature’s Rejuvenating Retreat In Taiwan’s Hot Springs
Hot springs are often referred to as the hot tears of the earth. These springs are formed by natural waters that originate from the core of the earth and are considered one of the most precious gifts on the planet. They exist in four types across the world—hot springs, cold springs, mud springs, and seabed hot springs, each offering various health benefits. Taiwan, with its geological location, is home to over 100 hot springs, making it a prime destination for those seeking therapeutic relaxation.
In Taiwan, hot springs are more than just a soak–they’re an experience steeped in natural beauty and healing traditions. The waters of these springs are believed to have therapeutic properties. However, they vary based on their chemical composition, mineral concentration, and temperature, offering diverse benefits to the body. If you’re seeking therapeutic mineral baths and want to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, consider Taiwan’s hot springs. They are a place of heaven. Along with relaxation and calmness to the body, they also provide you with the best scenic views along with luxurious resorts and spas.
Where To Experience Hot Springs?
Here are some of the top hot springs experiences you can explore in Taiwan:
1. Beitou Hot Springs
Located in Taipei, it offers a historical hot spring experience with modern amenities. It is one of the most famous and accessible hot springs in the city, where the waters are perfect for relaxation and calmness after a hectic day. Here, the major highlights are the Beitou Hot Spring Museum, Thermal Valley, and various public and private baths.
2. Wulai Hot Springs
Situated in the Wulai district of New Taipei City, Wulai Hot Springs is considered one of the premier hot spring destinations in northern Taiwan. This place is also known as “beauty hot springs” because it produces alkaline sodium bi-carbonate which is believed to be good for skin. If you want to soak in the warm waters of Wulai Hot Springs, the best time to visit is during the early summer when the mountainsides are covered in red cherry blossoms.
3. Jiaoxi Hot Springs
Located in the Yilan district, Jiaoxi Hot Springs is a popular hot spring destination on the northeast coast. There are many hotels and resorts in the area that provide private hot spring rooms and baths to their travellers. Not only this, Jiaoxi offers several cheaper and pocket-friendly public bath houses to its visitors, where they can chill and relax to their fullest.
4. Jinshan Hot Springs
In 1867, the hot springs were formed in the coastal district of Jinshan in New Taipei City. A variety of hot spring sources are available in this area, including seawater-fed springs, sulfuric springs, carbonic acid springs, and iron oxide springs, which moisturise the skin and stimulate blood flow.
5. Guanziling Hot Springs
Taiwan’s most famous mud hot springs, Guanzilia in Tainan, are known for their wellness experience. There are also dozens of hot spring hotels in the area that offer hot spring baths and mud spas, perfect for relaxation. With a pH level of 7.8-8.6, the water here contains high levels of sodium bicarbonate, which improves circulation, reduces inflammation, and relaxes the body and skin. There are also dozens of hot spring hotels in the area that offer hot spring baths and mud spas, perfect for relaxation.
Experience Scenic Ocean Drives Along Taiwan’s Coastline
Imagine cruising along winding roads with the ocean on one side and lush mountains on the other. Well, that’s the essence of Taiwan’s ocean drives! These routes are more than just drives; they’re a journey through some of the island’s most breathtaking landscapes and what can only be described as a ‘ride to heaven’!
These ocean drives not only highlight the island’s stunning natural beauty but also an opportunity to explore local culture and charming coastal towns. Below are some of the ocean drives from which you can enjoy the dreamiest views ever:
1. Pingxi Coastal Drive
Situated on the Northern Coast, Pingxi Coastal Drive offers beautiful seascapes, unique rock formations, and historic sites. Here, one can explore different spots, which include Yehliu Geopark, Juming Museum, Jinshan Old Street, and Keelung Miakou Night Market, to have an amazing experience from food to stunning views.
2. Su-Hua Highway
Located on Taiwan’s east coast, on the boundaries between Hualien and Yilan countries, Su-Hua is well known for its dramatic coastal scenarios and breathtaking ocean views. This scenic drive stretches from Su-Hua in Yilan country to Hualien and is considered one of the most scenic drives in the world. Nanfanga’o, a charming fishing port is also accessible from here.
3. Kentington Coastal Drive
The drive-through Kenting National Park on the southern coast offers some of the most beautiful and scenic coastal views in Taiwan. Besides ocean views, Kenting Coastal Drive boasts lush landscapes, turquoise waters, and white sand beaches.
Rent A Car To Explore
Experiencing Taiwan’s ocean drives through self-driving offers flexibility and gives you the freedom to explore the breathtaking oceanic scenery at your own pace. If you plan on driving on your own, you can easily rent a car at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport. Across the island, many companies offer car rental services with varying rates based on model and number of days.
For more information about the rental services and pricing, check out these options:
Furthermore, Taiwan is promoting its ‘Taiwan the Lucky Land’ campaign as a destination for travellers interested in exploring new Asia. Eligible travelers, with a stay of 3 to 90 days, can register 1 to 7 days before arrival. In Taiwan’s airports, participants can participate in a draw to win digital vouchers or accommodation worth NT$5,000 (₹12,837). The initiative aims to reward 500,000 lucky independent travellers.
So, whether you’re unwinding in natural thermal waters or cruising along scenic ocean routes, every moment In Taiwan is a chance to create unforgettable memories!
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All image credits: Taiwan Tourism