Not Just Hot Springs! A Complete Guide to Hidden Gems Around Zhiben Hot Springs
Winter in Taitung is best enjoyed with a trip to Zhiben Hot Springs. Known as the most famous hot spring town in eastern Taiwan, it has become a healing sanctuary for many travelers who fall in love with it after just one visit.
Zhiben Hot Springs originate from the banks of the Zhiben River. The water is a mildly alkaline sodium bicarbonate spring, clear and odorless, with a silky texture that is highly nourishing for the skin, earning it the nickname "Beauty Spring." Whether you're looking to rejuvenate, de-stress, or simply relax, this place has it all.
🌿 A Hot Spring Town Nestled in Nature
Zhiben Hot Springs is divided into the Inner Hot Spring Area and the Outer Hot Spring Area. The Inner Hot Spring Area, built along the Zhiben River, is lined with hotels and bathhouses, making it a favorite among tourists. The Outer Hot Spring Area, closer to the pristine forest, offers a quieter atmosphere, perfect for those seeking solitude and a connection with nature.
Here, you can hear the sounds of flowing water and chirping birds. During the day, mist lingers in the mountains, and at night, you can soak under a starry sky, breathing in harmony with nature—an experience almost impossible to find in urban settings.
🛁 Various Ways to Enjoy the Hot Springs
At Zhiben Hot Springs, you can choose to stay at a resort hotel and enjoy public pools, spas, and open-air baths, or opt for private bathhouses for a more secluded experience. For a taste of local life, try the affordable public baths, where you can chat with locals while soaking, experiencing a different hot spring vibe.
The spring water temperature ranges from 45 to 56°C. It's recommended to warm your feet first before gradually immersing your whole body. Soak for 10–15 minutes at a time, take a short break, and then soak again to improve circulation and avoid fatigue.
📍 Nearby Attractions
Beyond hot springs, Zhiben offers many other places worth exploring:
• Zhiben Forest Recreation Area: Featuring hot spring trails, suspension bridges, and natural valleys, it's a refreshing walk after a soak.
• Baiyu Waterfall: A hidden gem in the forest, its cool, clear waters contrast interestingly with the hot springs.
• Taitung City: Just a 20-minute drive from Zhiben, where you can savor local delicacies like rice noodles and fried swordfish cakes.
📝 Tips
• Winter and holidays can be crowded, so it's best to book accommodations or bathhouses in advance.
• Avoid soaking on an empty stomach or after drinking alcohol to prevent discomfort.
• Summer visits are also enjoyable, as many hotels offer cold springs and swimming pools, making it a year-round destination.
The charm of Zhiben Hot Springs lies not only in its warm waters but also in the tranquility of the surrounding mountains and the laid-back pace of life in eastern Taiwan. As you soak in the steamy waters, watching the river flow and feeling the warmth seep into your bones, it feels as if all your stress and fatigue are washed away, leaving only a rejuvenated you.