Beitou Hot Spring Museum

What are the most recommended things to do in Beitou Hot Spring Museum?

  • Explore the Beitou Hot Spring Museum and learn about the history of hot springs in Taiwan.
  • Visit the museum’s traditional Japanese-style bathhouse, which showcases Beitou’s rich hot spring culture.
  • Take a stroll in Beitou Park, located right next to the museum, to enjoy the natural hot spring steam rising from the ground.
  • Visit the nearby Thermal Valley (also known as Hell Valley) to see hot spring steam rising from a natural sulfuric spring.
  • Experience the Beitou Hot Springs in one of the public or private bathhouses nearby for a relaxing soak.

Introducing Beitou Hot Spring Museum

Beitou Hot Spring Museum, located in Beitou District, Taipei City, is a historical preservation museum. It used to be a public hot spring bath, so it is also known as Beitou Hot Spring Bath.

The building, constructed with Japanese-style timber structures, is nestled against a backdrop of verdant mountains, with winding paths and lush vegetation, giving it the feel of a country villa. In 1997, it was designated a Class III cultural relic and historical site in Taiwan and converted into the Beitou Hot Springs Museum.

The central hot springs pool is a highlight of the Beitou Hot Springs Museum. Roman arches surround it, and sunlight filtering through stained glass creates an exotic atmosphere. The large European-style bathhouse is reserved for men only, and nearby displays include brushes, ladles, and buckets from the early days of Beitou Hot Springs.

Once the largest hot spring bathhouse in East Asia, it was later converted into a community service center and swimming pool after 1945, before being abandoned and left to decay. Today, it retains a certain grandeur, almost the size of a swimming pool, surrounded by arched walls, reminiscent of a Roman bathhouse.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-2 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Tuesday - Sunday: 9:00-17:00, last admission at 16:45

Closed on Mondays and national holidays ( Open on Saturdays and Sundays )


Most Popular FAQs for Beitou Hot Spring Museum

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

The Beitou Hot Spring Museum was once a public bathhouse and is now a museum that showcases the history and culture of hot springs in Taiwan. Beitou has been known for its natural hot springs since the Qing Dynasty, and it remains one of the most popular hot spring destinations in Taiwan.

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

The Beitou Hot Spring Museum is located in Beitou District, Taipei. It is easily accessible by taking the Taipei MRT Red Line to Beitou Station, then transferring to the Xinbeitou Line, which will take you to the Xinbeitou Station, a short walk from the museum.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Beitou Hot Spring Museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during weekdays in the morning or early afternoon to avoid crowds, especially on weekends and public holidays.

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

The entrance fee to the Beitou Hot Spring Museum is NT$40. Tickets can be purchased at the museum entrance. There are no online ticket sales for this museum.

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

No, you do not need to book tickets in advance. Tickets are available for purchase on-site at the museum entrance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes around 30 minutes to 1 hour to fully explore the Beitou Hot Spring Museum, depending on how much time you spend exploring the exhibits and the surrounding park area.

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

  • The traditional Japanese-style bathhouse, which is the main feature of the museum.
  • The historical exhibits detailing the development of Beitou’s hot spring culture.
  • The beautiful garden and outdoor area surrounding the museum, which offer scenic views and a relaxing atmosphere.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, but they may be offered in English upon request. Audio guides are available in multiple languages, including English, for a self-guided experience.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • The outdoor garden and park area surrounding the museum offer great photography opportunities with lush greenery and the historical bathhouse in the background.
  • The museum’s traditional architecture provides a beautiful setting for photos, especially from the front of the building.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

  • Start by exploring the traditional Japanese-style bathhouse to understand the architectural history.
  • Move on to the exhibits inside the museum, which explain the significance of hot springs in Beitou.
  • Finish by taking a stroll in the surrounding park area and visiting nearby landmarks like the Thermal Valley.

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

The Beitou Hot Spring Museum does not offer night visits or light shows. The museum is only open during the daytime, and special tours are available by appointment or during certain events.

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

The museum can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are weekday mornings, particularly right after opening.

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

  • Toilets are available inside the museum.
  • There are no food or drink facilities within the museum, but nearby cafes and restaurants offer local Taiwanese food.
  • There are rest areas outside the museum where visitors can relax and enjoy the surrounding park.
  • Shops offering souvenirs related to hot springs are available near the museum.

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

The Beitou Hot Spring Museum is accessible for elderly and children, though some areas may involve walking or stairs. There is no specific accessibility for disabled visitors, as the museum has limited wheelchair-friendly features.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly used at the museum entrance, but cards and mobile payments are also accepted at nearby cafes and shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

  • There are several cafes and restaurants nearby serving local Taiwanese dishes, including hot spring-themed meals.
  • Popular spots include the Beitou Hot Spring Restaurant, where visitors can experience the famous “hot spring eggs” and other local specialties.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in nearby restaurants, although halal food may be less common in this area.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

  • There are several hotels and guesthouses in Beitou, including the Beitou Hot Spring Resort, which offers a luxurious stay with access to hot spring baths.
  • Budget accommodations are also available nearby for those looking for more affordable options.

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

  • Visit the nearby Thermal Valley (Hell Valley) to see natural hot spring steam.
  • Take a walk in Beitou Park and enjoy its scenic trails and peaceful surroundings.
  • The Beitou Library, a unique modern library, is also a short distance away and worth a visit.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops near the museum selling items like hot spring-themed bath salts, local tea, and traditional Taiwanese crafts.

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

  • After visiting, take the Taipei MRT from Xinbeitou Station to continue your trip to other parts of Taipei.
  • Taxis and buses are also available for convenient transportation to nearby areas and attractions.