Jinshan is nestled on Taiwan’s North Coast, a hidden gem famous for its hot springs, particularly the unique golden hot spring. Small as it may be, this cozy town offers visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the soothing embrace of the unique natural waters of this golden hot spring while enjoying the tranquil surroundings.
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The Golden Hot Spring is named after the golden hue of an iron-rich spring (鐵泉). In addition to this precious golden hot spring, which is believed to exist in only 11 countries in the world, Jinshan also boasts underwater hot springs (海底溫泉), sulfur springs (硫磺泉), and carbonated springs (碳酸泉). Combining these precious hot springs with its beautiful landscapes and local characteristics, Jinshan has become one of northern Taiwan’s most popular tourist destinations.
A glimpse into history
According to the earliest records, after the Jinshan earthquake in 1867, the hot springs in this area gushed out due to the explosion of the sulfurous mountain. In 1899, some villagers began to set up small baths for business. In 1939, during the Japanese colonial period, the Taiwan governor built a two-story Western-style hot spring hotel in Jinshan, which was rare then. Afterward, local people also began to open public baths in the area.
Passed down from generation to generation, this heritage eventually transformed the vicinity into the “Jinshan Wanli Hot Spring Area,” also known as “Jinbaoli Hot Spring (金包里溫泉).” Due to its popularity, hot spring hotels have sprung up in the area one after another in recent years.
Especially with the discovery of an 80-meter-deep new iron-rich hot spring well and the establishment of the Huanggang Public Bathhouse (磺港公共浴室), the small town has attracted more tourists to explore the unique golden hot spring in Jinshan.
Hot springs in the Huanggang community
The temperature of the springs in Jinshan is pleasantly warm, around 40-50°C (104-122°F), providing a soothing and relaxing experience for those who immerse themselves in the rejuvenating waters. As for the pH value, it tends to be slightly acidic, which contributes to its therapeutic properties.
The iron-rich hot spring in this area is commonly called the “Golden Hot Spring” (“Gold Soup” 金湯) because of its golden hue. The underwater hot spring is referred to as the “Silver Hot Spring” (“Silver Soup” 銀湯) because it is clear or slightly milky colored.
The golden hot spring in this community is from a newly developed well. As a self-gushing spring, pumps are unnecessary to transfer the water from the 80-meter (262 feet) deep well. The temperature of the hot spring water is about 75°C (167°F).
The iron-rich golden hot spring water is originally transparent and colorless underground. But after it is exposed to the atmosphere, the iron ions oxidize and turn golden brown.
The golden and silver hot springs are believed to have various benefits for skin health, blood circulation, and overall relaxation.
The public bathhouses in Jinshan
With abundant springs, Jinshan has the highest density of public bathhouses in Taiwan. Moreover, three of the five public bathhouses in Jinshan are centered near the Huanggang Fishing Harbor.
The Huanggang Public Bathhouse (磺港公共浴室) has two indoor men’s pools, one indoor women’s pool, and three enchanting outdoor footbath pools. Renovated in 2009, the Huanggang Public Bathhouse is the area’s most popular public bathhouse.
Nestled in the embrace of nature, these outdoor pools allow guests to savor the golden hot spring waters while relishing the beauty of the surroundings. In particular, the blend of warmth and open air creates a refreshing and revitalizing experience, further enhancing the allure of Jinshan’s treasure.
The Sheliao Public Bathhouse (社寮公共浴室) has a nostalgic feel. With its proximity to the Jinshan Qingshui Wetland, where migratory birds can be seen in winter and lotus flowers in summer, it can be planned as a rest stop during a trip.
The Nanping Public Bathhouse (南屏公共浴室), located deep in the Huanggang fishing harbor, is not a common sight for tourists. In the early years, it was the favorite place of fishermen, who bathed there after work before going home to save on tap water.
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