Beitou

Introducing Beitou

Beitou District, located in the northernmost part of Taipei City, borders New Taipei City to the north. Yangmingshan National Park is located here, along with Shilin District. The famous Beitou Hot Springs and Guandu Scenic Area are also located here.

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Most Popular FAQs for Beitou

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Beitou is a district in northern Taipei known for its geothermal hot springs and history of Japanese-era spa development. Its name comes from the Ketagalan indigenous word *Kipatauw.*

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

It is in northern Taipei City, at the foot of Yangmingshan. Take Taipei MRT’s Red (Tamsui) Line to Beitou Station, then transfer to the Xinbeitou branch for one stop to reach the hot spring area.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Many museums and public attractions open ~10:00 to 18:00 (e.g. Beitou Hot Spring Museum).
• Beitou Park is open 24 hours.
• Best time: cooler months (fall to spring) when hot springs feel most pleasant. Summer is okay but less contrast.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Many attractions (e.g. Beitou Hot Spring Museum) are free or low cost. Bathhouses and resorts charge for hot spring access. Tickets are purchased on-site or via hotel or resort websites.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For popular resorts or weekends, booking in advance is recommended; for museums and casual visits, advance reservation is usually not required.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Half to one full day is enough to see major sites and enjoy springs. You can combine with Yangmingshan if you have more time.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Beitou Thermal Valley
• Beitou Hot Spring Museum & Beitou Museum
• Beitou Park (waterfalls, pavilions)
• Plum Garden
• Beitou Heart Village
• Tittot Glass Art Museum

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours in Chinese are common. English-speaking guides or audio guides may be available in major museums or via tour operators.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Overlooking Thermal Valley (steamy sulfur pools)
• From Beitou Park across the small waterfalls and springs
• Plum Garden’s traditional architecture and garden
• Elevated paths in Xinbeitou area with forested views

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at Xinbeitou Station → Beitou Hot Spring Museum → Thermal Valley → Beitou Park → Plum Garden → Beitou Heart Village → finish with hot spring soak.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

There are evening hot spring soakings and sometimes cultural music events; most museums are daytime only.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

It’s busiest on weekends and holidays. Weekdays, especially mornings, are quieter.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Facilities include restrooms, small cafés, souvenir shops, and hot spring bathhouses. Beitou Park has educational centers and outdoor spring pools.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Many paths are paved or leveled; museums and park areas are relatively accessible. Some springs may have steps or require walking, so mobility-limited visitors should check per site.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments are widely accepted; carrying some cash is still useful for small vendors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Local Taiwanese and Hakka-style restaurants around the hot spring zones
• Cafés near Beitou Park and Xinbeitou station
• Night market stalls in Beitou and nearby districts

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian cuisine is readily available in Taipei; halal options are more limited but possible near MRT hubs.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Hot spring resorts and inns in Xinbeitou (e.g. Grand View Resort Beitou)
• Mid-range hotels in Beitou District near MRT
• Guesthouses and local B&Bs in the hills around Beitou

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Yangmingshan National Park and its volcanic trails
• Guandu Wetlands and Guandu Temple
• Tittot Glass Art Museum (on Guandu side)

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops sell hot spring bath goods (minerals, soaps), local crafts, postcards, and tea products.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Return by MRT to central Taipei or onward to Yangmingshan shuttle buses. The metro makes it easy to connect to other Taipei districts.