TOUR STOPS
- Yangmingshan National Park
- Flower Clock
- Xiaoyoukeng Geological Area
- Hot-spring Bath in Shamao Village
Yangmingshan National Park, located just to the north of Taipei, is the national park closest to Taipei. It is a volcanic-type park, with impressive volcanic terrain that is especially well known for its rich variety of butterflies. The geologic features produced by volcanic action, crater lakes, sulfur fumaroles, geothermal energy, and hot springs have value for both study and recreation. The park features a large number of tourist sites, each with its own unique attractions; the Datun Nature Park, for example, is characterized by natural resources, such as subtropical- and temperate-zone broadleaf forests and volcanic formations. The Menghuan Lake Nature Preserve in the Lengshuikeng area is home to a rare fern, the Taiwan isoetes; this is, in fact, the lowest degree of latitude anywhere in the world where this plant grows. For this reason, it is considered a national treasure. Xiaoyoukeng is filled with volcanic fissures that spew steam from the bowels of the earth, forming clusters of sulfur crystals. In addition to the awesome crumbled terrain as well as the characteristics mentioned above, another attraction is the hot springs.
Since ancient times, people have recognized the rejuvenating and therapeutic properties of these natural resources. Taiwan is ranked among the world's top 15 hot spring sites and harbors a great variety of springs, including hot springs, cold springs, mud springs, and seabed hot springs. The island proudly regards itself as possessing one of the highest concentration and variety of hot springs in the world.
Shamao Village is a wonderful place to experience one of the best hot-spring baths in Taiwan. Hot spring outlets here are mostly sulfur springs. The temperatures of the springs range from 55 to 58 degrees Celsius. Bathing in the hot-spring water has a relaxing and refreshing effect. It not only helps relieve muscle pain, nervous-system pain and digestive problems, but also has curative effects on arteriosclerosis and other ailments. For more details about the procedures, please visit Easy go Spa.
Because most of Taiwan's hot springs are located in beautiful scenic areas, when going to soak in one of the numerous hot springs you will not only be able to get away from the hectic city life but will also be given the opportunity to enjoy gorgeous scenery while listening to the voices of nature, thus adding a new dimension to recreation and health. Therefore, coming to Taiwan on a hot spring tour will definitely pay off!
* The above article is adapted from Taiwan Tourism Bureau and Yangmingshan National Park
