What to Expect at Bayan Hot Springs?
The Bayan Hot Springs are some of the best natural hot springs near Taipei. Unlike the more developed hot springs, these natural hot springs consist of primitive, naturally formed pools (made out of rocks by the locals).
These pools are filled with mineral-rich geothermal water sourced directly from the earth. The pools vary in size and temperature, offering an assortment of soaking options. The temperature of the water goes from SUPER HOT on top to nicely warm at the bottom and then the river passes right next to the last bath for when you need to cool down.
While the facilities here are basic, the rustic appeal is what draws visitors who seek an authentic and unrefined experience. Many locals use the grey mud that naturally forms around the hot springs and put it on their faces and bodies because they believe it is good for the skin.
This gray mud is typically a combination of volcanic clay and mineral-rich sediments. Many people believe that applying this geothermal mud to the skin can have therapeutic benefits, potentially helping with conditions like acne, psoriasis, and eczema. Additionally, the heat from the hot springs is thought to enhance blood circulation, which may also have positive effects on the skin. Before putting on the mud, please make sure you do not have any sensitivities or allergies to the mud or its mineral content.

Note: When you type “Bayan Hot Springs” on Google, it says “permanently closed.” It is indeed closed, there is a big fence preventing you from entering the hot springs. BUT locals always find a way around that fence. However, note that it is not allowed by the government to go there. Sometimes the cops show up and ask everyone to leave. Sometimes they even issue fines, so be aware of that.

Note that you have to walk about 30 min to get to the hot springs. The trail is made of dirt and rocks. I do not recommend flip-flops on the rocky path. Moreover, at some point, you need to cross a river (there are big rocks to cross.

When to go? Any day and time. If you go on weekends it can be quite crowded, but even on weekdays! Sunny or rainy days, morning, afternoon or night, there will be people in those hot springs.

How far is Bayan Hot Springs from Taipei?
From Jintian MRT station: 2h by bus + 30 min walk.
How do you get to Bayan Hot Springs from Taipei?
- Take the MRT to reach Jiantan MRT station Red line
- Get out at Exit 1
- Head north and cross the road on the first crossing to the right. The bus stop will be right next to it. It is the Mingchuan University bus stop.
- Take the 1717 bus (there is one every hour). If you missed it, you can also take the 260 shuttle bus and stop at Yangmingshan bus stop (right in front of a 7/11) and then take the 1717 bus. The 260 is a little faster so you might be on time at Yangmingshan bus stop to catch the 1717 .
- Stop at: Qiangxin bus station.
- Head south (the opposite direction the bus was going)
- Take the small street on your right. At the end of the road, there is a small parking and you will see the trail head. (It’s not indicated as a trail, you just continue the road further and when it becomes dirt and rocks, you know you are on the trail 🙂
Let us know how your trip to Bayan Hot Springs went!