One of the world’s premier locations for hot springs, hot spring spas and hot spring hotels, it may surprise you that here in Taiwan, cold springs are also a thing. Not only do they exist, they’re also a popular tourist attraction and perfect for cooling off when Taiwan’s summer heat is getting unbearable. (More: 12 Ways to Embrace and Enjoy Taiwan’s Summer Heat)
What are cold springs?
Barely found anywhere else in the world, Taiwan’s cold springs are carbonated pools of carbonic acid water, being this way due to high levels of naturally occurring carbon dioxide as a result of forming in limestone. With an average temperature of less than 22 degrees Celsius and because of their carbonated nature, it sort of feels like bathing in a cold bath of soda water. Technically, the water is drinkable. But we wouldn’t recommend it. Because, you know, there’s people in it…
What are the benefits of cold springs?
While bathing in cold springs will obviously cool you down when it’s hot outside, they also have some health benefits. Supposedly, the cold water will help improve your circulation and can also help cure some skin diseases. Drinking the water is also supposed to be good for you, but we wouldn’t recommend it. Because, you know, there’s people in it…
Where can you go to a cold spring in Taiwan?
Suao, Yilan is the only place in Taiwan where you’ll find cold springs. Suao Cold Spring Park is the place to go for a local, more authentic cold spring experience. NT$70 for access to the public pool and NT$200 for the private, a dip in the cold springs is very affordable, while you can also alternate between private hot and cold springs for NT$300 (NT$450 for two people). For those of you who are craving something a bit more upmarket, check out RSL Cold & Hot Springs Resort.
Here are more ways to avoid Taiwan’s summer heat: