Besides the numerous commercially operated springs, the Maolin National Scenic Area also boasts the most extensive distribution of natural stream springs in Taiwan. Within the region there are Lakusih Stream (Gold Stream) and Fusing Hot Springs of Taoyuan District, Laolao Hot Springs of Gaojhong, Baolai Hot Springs, Bulao Hot Springs, Shihdong Hot Springs and Cikeng Hot Springs of Liouguei District, and finally, Hongchen Gorge Hot Springs of Maolin District.
The minerals of Taiwan’s springs can be divided into three types: volcanic rock, sedimentary rock, and metamorphic rock. The water is also said to promote general blood circulation, improve circulation in the extremities and help conditions such as joint pain or neuropathy. Many tourists consider Hongchen Gorge Hot Springs, where the water is a sodium bicarbonate solution, the best springs they’ve ever been to. Sodium bicarbonate helps to moisturize and whiten the skin, softens cuticles and treats inflammation. It’s also great for conditioning the hair.
Baolai Hot Springs
There are many hot spring villas within the Baolai Hot Springs area. In the morning, head towards Shenwei Tiantai Mountain, Shihba Luohanshan, Liouguei Tunnel and the Liouguei Visitor Center. In the afternoon, head over towards Pulai Sitoushe Walkway to catch a panoramic view of Baolai Village and Laonong Stream. At night, enjoy dishes such as “golden chicken” and “plum sauce bean curd” on the streets of Baolai. Additionally, enjoy different flavors of “wild jelly fig” (coffee, millet and red beans). After dinner, stay at one of the hot spring villas, each with their distinctive features and enjoy a bath or spa.
Bulao Hot Springs and Tengjhih National Forest Recreational Area
The Bulao Hot Springs are named for the Chinese meaning of its name, which is ‘hot springs that grant you immortality’. Tengjhih is the area around a small riverhead in the south, which begins at 1850 meters above sea level and ends at 1550 meters above sea level. It used to be divided into two hiking routes, A and B, going upstream on A and downstream on B in a test of endurance. They are now known as the Wax Begonia Path (formerly A) and the Dragon Spruce Path (formerly B).
The local culinary specialties include monkey head mushrooms, bamboo shoots, peanuts, oyster mushrooms, pumpkin cookies, mountain tea, peaches, and a bounty of other treats. These all serve as delicious snacks or gifts for friends at home to let them know you were thinking of them.
Baolai Hot Springs and Shanping Forest Ecological Science Park
Shanping is the best ecologically preserved place in southern Taiwan. Great forest showers can be enjoyed in both Shanping and Tengjhih. Besides a tour of the hot springs, why not consider arranging a tour of its natural beauty?
Local specialty products include Black Diamond wax apples, golden mangoes, and Sweet Silk Chinese dates.