5 hot spring resorts within Taiwan’s East Coast that will rejuvenate your senses

The charmingly tacky resort town of Jiaoxi stays packed with tourists from Taipei, who come to eat spicy ice cream, dip their feet into “fish spa” and enjoy hot spring water that literally flows through the streets. Located amidst all the tatty fun, the brand new, extremely swank Wellspring by Silks is an oasis for the weary. Each room has its own outdoor hot spring, perfect for unwinding after riding strenuous mountain passes. Once you’ve washed away the aches and pains, head up to the rooftop pool to watch the nightly movie or down to the gallery where notable artists give painting classes to guests.

Situated midway between the East Coast’s two cities, Hualien and Taitung, the Grand Cosmos Resort is over the top in all the best ways. The massive complex – with architecture inspired by European castles – features Taiwan’s biggest outdoor water park, a library, karaoke rooms, video game arcades, retail outlets and Taiwan’s only Banyan Tree spa. The owner chose this out-of-the-way spot for the quality of its reinvigorating thermal water, which is piped into each guest room a variety of public baths, each with its own temperature and mineral content. Expect manicured gardens and spectacular views. Try to stay on a weekend, when local aboriginal tribespeople set up a craft market just for guests.

Located at Beinan Township in Taitung, this rustic resort offers a variety of sleeping arrangements, from cozy log houses to stylish single-family cottages with wooden flooring and its own indoor tub. Both indoor and outdoor hot springs are available – the outdoor ones are particularly charming, offering a view of the tranquil mountain surrounds. You can rent a bike, dip into one of its pools, book an outdoor barbecue pit, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along its extensive grounds. Once you feel hunger pangs, head over to its onsite restaurant that serves healthy Chinese dishes.

Located near Fuyuan Recreational Forest Area, Butterfly Valley Resort is a perfect blend of nature and modern architecture. The tall and lush trees surrounding the resort create an illusion of a scenic and tranquil environment, while the resort itself is an elegant infrastructure of concrete and glass. There are two types of hot springs here: a beauty hot spring (which contains sodium bicarbonate, known to have beneficial effects on the skin) and the golden hot spring (a carbonate spring which helps with blood circulation). If you’re looking for some privacy, check into its luxurious presidential villa suite and unwind in the comfort of your own personal hot spring tub, comprising water drawn from the source located directly underneath the valley.

Families with children will be pleased with this homely bed and breakfast that’s located at the foot of a mountain. With a spacious courtyard, an outdoor swimming pool and an outdoor waterpark with features such as fountains, water slides and swings, there’s plenty to keep the kids busy. Parents on their part can catch a break by soaking in its large outdoor hot springs. Rooms are clean and comfortable, and some have in-room hot spring tubs. Head to its restaurant for some delicious homestay-style meals.

Please check the establishments’ respective websites for opening hours as well as booking requirements before visiting, and remember to adhere to safe-distancing measures while out and about. 

The information is accurate as of press time. For updated information, please refer to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ website.

To learn more about Singapore Airlines flights, visit singaporeair.com.

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