Wulai Hot Spring, Natural hot spring in Wulai District, Taiwan
Wulai Hot Spring is a natural thermal spring in Wulai District where mineral-rich water emerges from underground year-round, reaching temperatures between 40 and 45 degrees Celsius. The water flows directly from the source along the Nanshi River into outdoor pools positioned throughout the riverside area.
The thermal waters were first used by the Atayal indigenous people who discovered the springs centuries ago while exploring the Nanshi River valley. This early use shaped the region and made it known as a place for natural bathing.
The name Wulai comes from the Atayal word "ulay", which the indigenous people used to describe the steam rising from the thermal waters. This heritage remains visible in local names and how the community identifies with these natural springs.
The location is accessible by bus 849 from Xindian MRT station, with the journey taking around 40 minutes through mountain roads. Wear comfortable shoes as the paths to the pools include some rocky riverside sections.
The mineral water flows directly from the ground into outdoor pools along the riverside without heavy filtering, providing an authentic natural bathing experience that you rarely find in commercialized facilities. Many visitors do not realize they can often spot small fish in the warm water.
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