Xinbeitou Hot Springs

Xinbeitou is the hot spring quarter of Beitou, the northernmost district of Taipei, and a popular getaway from the rush of the city, best known for its hot springs.

From Taipei Main Station, take the MRT Tamsui-Xinyi (Red) line to Beitou and change there for the short branch-line shuttle to Xinbeitou. Step off and you are in a completely different world.
There is a sudden change in scenery, from the bustling city to the calm mountains. There is a Hot Spring Museum located right as you enter Xinbeitou, taking you into the history of the Japanese culture of spring baths. Xinbeitou's hot springs owe their existence to the Datun volcano group in Yangmingshan. Bathing options range from hotel and resort spas to the municipal Beitou Park Open-Air Hot Spring Bath, known as the Millennium Hot Spring, which is run by Taipei City Government, takes visitors in timed sessions and requires a swimsuit. It has been closed for rebuilding in recent years, so check before you go.
Other attractions in Beitou are the Thermal Valley, where you will find steaming hot springs out in the open. The Beitou Branch of the Taipei library is quite scenic as well, surrounded by lush gardens and trees. The Plum Garden is another historic site, showcasing many features of the Japanese culture.