Taiwan’s location in the Circum-Pacific Seismic Belt, also known as the Pacific Ring of Fire, provides it with an abundance of volcanic and geothermal resources. High-temperature springs with crystal-clear water abound various regions in the country, thus earning the name the “Hot Spring Kingdom.” 

According to the website taiwanhotspring.net, more than 100 hot springs have been discovered in Taiwan, located in different geological areas including plains, mountains, valleys, and oceans. The highest concentration of hot springs is in northern Taiwan, where the Tatun volcanoes are located. 

Hot spring varieties in Taiwan include sodium bicarbonate, white sulfur, green sulfur, iron-sulfur, sulfur, mud spring, sulfate chloride, carbonate, alkaline carbonate, and seabed hot spring—each has unique features and benefits.

When the weather is cold, soaking into a hot spring is extremely comfortable. It also provides multiple health benefits to the body such as improving overall health and reducing allergic reactions.  

Some of the clinical symptoms, taiwanhotsprings.net said, that can be improved by soaking in hot springs are asthma, allergic rhinitis, chronic bronchitis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and common colds.

Taiwan’s top 10 hot springs and Taiwanese delicacies are awaiting visitors during the Taiwan hot spring season, ongoing until March 31 this year.

The Tourism Bureau of Taiwan holds series of events to promote the journey of hot springs, delicacies, and culture in Taiwan.

In 2018, the bureau hosted a contest and selected Top 10 hot springs in Taiwan, which are Guanziling Hot Spring, Xinbeitou Hot Spring, Jiaoxi Hot Spring, Jhihben Hot Spring, Kukuan Hot Spring, Taian Hot Spring, Jinshan Wanli Hot Spring, Wulai Hot Spring, Ruisui Hot Spring, and Baolai and Bulao Hot Spring.

Each of top hot springs has different kinds of spring quality, landscape, and local foods. The hot spring towns in Taiwan also offer hot spring healthy menus, taking advantage of local and seasonal ingredients.