Jiaoxi

Jiaoxi, a laid-back hot-spring town on Taiwan's northeast coast, is where urbanites come to soak away their stresses. The air smells faintly of sulfur, and steam rises from roadside drains—a constant reminder that thermal waters bubble just beneath the surface. Beyond the spas, Jiaoxi offers easy access to coastal trails, night markets, and the dramatic Pacific shoreline.

Highlights & What to See

• Soak in a public foot spa – Tangweigou Hot Spring Park has free foot baths where locals gather to chat while their feet soak in 40°C mineral water. It’s a free, quintessentially Jiaoxi experience.
• Ride the Jiaoxi Bicycle Path – A flat, 7-km route that winds through rice paddies and past old farmhouses, ending at the coast. Rent a bike near the train station.
• Explore Wufengqi Waterfall – A short hike through lush forest leads to this tiered waterfall. The plunge pool at the base is tempting for a swim on hot days.
• Visit the Jiaoxi Night Market – Smaller than Taipei’s but full of local flavour. Try the scallion pancakes, grilled squid, and the famous Yilan peanut ice-cream roll.
• Tour the Jimi Museum – A quirky, free museum dedicated to the Jimi doll character. Whimsical and unexpected, it’s a hit with families and fans of kitsch.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors come for a day trip from Taipei, but Jiaoxi rewards an overnight stay. Arrive by late morning to enjoy a foot soak and bike ride, then hike to Wufengqi in the afternoon. Spend the evening at the night market and book a hotel with an in-room hot spring bath for the full experience. If you have a second day, head to the coast or continue south to Yilan City.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Yilan City – 15 minutes by train; explore the National Center for Traditional Arts and the Yilan Distillery.
• Dongshan River Water Park – A scenic riverfront park with rental bikes and pedal boats, great for a relaxing afternoon.
• Taipingshan National Forest Recreation Area – About 1.5 hours by car; a misty mountain escape with ancient cypress forests and the Bong Bong Train.
• North Coast & Guishan Island – Take a whale-watching cruise from Toucheng or hike the coastal trails for dramatic sea views.
• Wulaokeng – A lesser-known hot spring area nearby, quieter than Jiaoxi and popular with locals.

Please check official sources for current details.