Thermal Valley (地熱谷) is one of the source springs of Taipei's Beitou hot-spring district, a turquoise thermal lake that steams with sulfur vapor all year round. It is famous as one of only two "green sulfur springs" (radium-bearing acidic sulfur springs) in the world, and locals long nicknamed it "Ghost Lake." Reopened in 2022 as "Thermal Valley Park 2.0," it now has a Taiwan-shaped hand bath and a lakeside loop trail.
The otherworldly sight of sulfur steam endlessly rising off an emerald-green thermal lake
Rare geological value as one of only two radium-bearing green sulfur springs on Earth
A 10–20 minute lakeside loop trail with elevated viewpoints and a photogenic "lover's seat"
A mineral hand bath (淨手礦泉湯) shaped like the island of Taiwan for a small hands-on spring experience
Free admission and an easy stroll from Xinbeitou MRT station through leafy Beitou Park
Good to know
SafetyThe source water reaches 80–100°C and has a pH of about 1.4–1.6, roughly as acidic as sulfuric acid. Contact with the water or steam can cause severe burns, so never cross the railings or touch the water.
RulesThe old tradition of boiling eggs in the spring was banned long ago after burn injuries and water-quality damage. Cooking and approaching the water's edge are now prohibited, so follow the posted signs.
SafetySteam makes the wooden boardwalks and stone paths slippery, and the water contains heavy metals (arsenic, lead) and trace radioactive radium, so it cannot be drunk or bathed in. The sulfur smell is strong; people with respiratory issues, pregnant visitors and small children should limit their time here.
SeasonSummer feels very hot and muggy amid the steam, and thick vapor lingers even in winter. The humidity fogs camera lenses and glasses, so bring a cloth, plus a hat, water and non-slip shoes.
CautionTaxis to and from Beitou should run on the meter; avoid drivers quoting a flat fare, ask for the meter ("yòng biǎo") or use Uber or the Taiwan Taxi app. Nearby public hot-spring pools have varying swimwear/swim-cap rules, so check before entering.
MannersDon't block the narrow trail while taking photos, and keep children from running or leaning over railings near the scalding water.
Practical info
About a 13–15 minute walk from Xinbeitou (新北投) MRT station through Beitou Park. Admission is free; generally open Tue–Sun 09:00–17:00 (extended to 18:00 in summer), closed Mondays (open on public holidays). Confirm hours and seasonal extensions before visiting.
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