Beitou Hot Spring Museum

Overview

The Beitou Hot Spring Museum is a beautifully restored Japanese colonial-era public bathhouse, built in 1913, that documents the history and science of Beitou's famous hot spring culture.

Highlights

• Roman-Style Bath Hall: The ground-floor great hall features an impressive stained-glass-windowed bathing area modeled after European bath houses.
• Tatami Rooms: The upper Japanese-style rooms display period artifacts and explain the geology of the Beitou thermal zone.
• Architecture: The half-timbered Tudor-Victorian exterior is one of the finest examples of Japanese colonial architecture in Taipei.

History

Built in 1913 as a luxury public bathhouse during Japanese rule, it was the largest public bath facility in East Asia at the time. After decades of neglect post-WWII, local residents campaigned for its preservation, and it reopened as a museum in 1998.

Visitor Tips

• Shoe Covers: Visitors must remove shoes and wear provided slippers to protect the historic floors.
• Beitou Walk: Combine with Hell Valley, Thermal Valley, and a soak at one of the nearby public hot spring facilities.
• Duration: 30–45 minutes.