(Photo opposite: public hot springs in Beitou) In the northern hills of a city of nearly three million people, tucked away in a secluded, lush green cove, lies a bountiful source of hot spring water that has fascinated both residents and visitors for as long as people can remember.

Indeed, the Japanese were so marveled by this area that they helped develop it into what it is today. But this is not Japan; rather, it is Taiwan. More specifically, this area is called Beitou, and it is located in the capital city of Taipei.

When most people think of Taipei, they think of the Taipei 101 building, pearl tea, or electronics. But something else Taipei is known for is its wonderful hot springs. And few people know that you can enjoy these hot springs for less than $2 a visit.

This naturally-heated groundwater, full of minerals, is thought to have therapeutic value, and is believed to help alleviate all sorts of physical pain. While there are many places in Beitou to enjoy hot springs, the cheapest and perhaps most interesting place is the public outdoor hot spring, which costs NT$40, or just over $1.25, to visit for a two-hour period.

To get there, get off at Xin Beitou Station of the Taipei MRT Red Line (Danshui Line), exit the ticket gates, and then walk straight ahead and up Zhongshan Road. The hot spring will be on your right-hand side, past the park and the Beitou Hot Springs Museum (the actual address is 6 Zhongshan Road). The hot spring is open daily, during the following periods: 5:30 a.m. – 7:45 a.m.; 8:30 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.; 12:00 p.m. – 2:45 p.m.; 3:30 p.m. – 6:15 p.m.; 7:00 p.m. – 9:45 p.m.

I’ve been to this hot spring several times and have enjoyed it immensely. There are people of all ages, and although it gets crowded on the weekend, you’ll meet at least a few friendly people there who will be genuinely interested in you and might even strike up a conversation with you.

There are, however, a few things to remember when visiting. Firstly, the hot spring is not Japanese-style, so bring your bathing suit. If you don’t have one, you can buy one there, but I highly recommend bringing your own. Also, before dipping into the water, rinse yourself off in one of the showers. Finally, the highest pool is the one with the hottest water, and the temperature of the water decreases as you go further down (there are three pools in total).

So although the Beitou public outdoor hot spring is not as luxurious or as private as other hot springs in the area, it is by far the cheapest and best way to get acquainted with the joy of visiting a hot spring – something that locals have been enjoying for years. And now you can too, for less than $2.

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