Jiaoxi

Jiaoxi is unique among Taiwan's hot spring hubs as its thermal waters emerge from the flatlands rather than mountain valleys. The odorless, crystal-clear sodium bicarbonate water is easily accessible right in the town center. A local favorite is the Tangweigou Hot Spring Park, where visitors can enjoy free public foot baths or experience 'doctor fish' spas. Located just a short drive from Taipei via the Hsuehshan Tunnel, it is a premier getaway for city dwellers. The town ingeniously utilizes geothermal water for agriculture, producing the famous Jiaoxi hot-spring tomatoes and water spinach, which are prized for their sweetness. Adventure seekers can hike to the majestic Wufengqi Waterfalls, featuring three impressive tiers, or tackle the 'Matcha Mountain' trail for panoramic views of the Lanyang Plain and the Pacific Ocean. The town's atmosphere is a blend of bustling modern commerce and tranquil spa culture. The best time to visit is from late autumn to early spring when the cool air enhances the soaking experience. Jiaoxi is home to a wide range of accommodations, from high-end international resorts to budget-friendly bathhouses. Its proximity to Taipei and excellent public transport links make it one of the most convenient and popular wellness destinations in Northern Taiwan.

Nearby cities

Yilan

A picturesque city in the Lanyang Plain, famous for hot springs and untouched nature.

Luodong

Taiwan's smallest urban township, which is nevertheless the busiest business center in Yilan County.

Keelung

A bustling port city in the northeast, famous for its night market and rainy weather.

Chiufen Sandiaojiao

A magical mountain village and the easternmost point of Taiwan, offering breathtaking Pacific views.

Yehliu

Yehliu is famous for its geological park featuring bizarre rock formations shaped by erosion along the northern coast.

Wulai

A mountainous village famous for its natural hot springs, towering waterfalls, and indigenous Atayal culture.

Zhongjiao

A prominent surfing paradise on Taiwan's north coast, famous for its consistent waves and wide sandy beaches.

Beitou

Taipei's famous hot spring district, known for its sulfurous steam and historical Japanese influences.

New Taipei City

The most populous city in Taiwan, completely enclosing the capital Taipei.

Hutoushan / Lalashan

A high-altitude mountain retreat famous for its millennia-old giant cypress trees and refreshing air.

Baishawan

A stunning white sand beach on the north coast, perfect for water sports and seaside relaxation.

Chongde

A spectacular village at the foot of the Qingshui Cliffs, ideal for kayakers and nature lovers.

Xiulin

Xiulin is the gateway to the majestic Taroko Gorge, offering pristine pebble beaches along the Pacific.

Smangus

A remote Atayal tribal village known as 'God's Village', famous for its giant trees and communal lifestyle.

History & landmarks

Shifen

Famous for its wide waterfall and a historic railway track that runs directly through the town's market street.

Jiufen Old Street

A charming mountain town that was once a center for gold mining, now famous for its narrow alleys and traditional teahouses.

Maokong Gondola

A cable car system in Taipei that takes visitors up to the tea-growing areas of Maokong, home to many traditional teahouses.

Elephant Mountain

A steep hill near the center of Taipei, offering one of the best views of Taipei 101 and the city skyline.

Yehliu Geopark

A geological park on the north coast, famous for its unusual rock formations.

National Palace Museum

A world-renowned museum housing one of the largest collections of ancient Chinese imperial artifacts and artworks.

Yangmingshan National Park

A volcanic national park right outside Taipei, known for its hot springs, fumaroles, and cherry blossoms blooming in spring.

Taroko Gorge

An impressive marble gorge carved by the Liwu River, offering spectacular hiking trails.

Nature

Laomei Green Reef

A coastal formation with volcanic trenches covered in green algae during spring.

Qingshui Cliff

Spectacular cliffs that drop almost vertically into the Pacific Ocean.

Tamsui River

The Tamsui River flows through the Taipei metropolitan area and empties into the Taiwan Strait in the northwest of the island.

More places

Port of Su'ao

A major civil and military port on Taiwan's rugged east coast.

Taipingshan Forest

Taipingshan Forest was once a major center of the logging industry and is now a misty recreation area with hot springs.

Pingxi Coal Mine

Formerly Taiwan's largest coal mine, which shaped the industrial development of the region.

Jinguashi Gold Mine

One of the largest gold and copper mines in Asia during the Japanese colonial era.

Nangang Software Park

A major technology park in Taipei focused on biotechnology and software development.

Taipei Zoo

One of the largest zoos in Asia, well-known for its giant pandas.

Daan Forest Park

A large green oasis in the heart of Taipei providing recreation for city dwellers.

National Revolutionary Martyrs' Shrine

A shrine built to honor the fallen soldiers of the Republic of China during various historical conflicts.