Beitou used to be where Ketagalan tribe resided. Beitou means "witch's residence" in Ketagalan language. When Han people immigrated here at early Ching Dynasty, they called Beitou "Pataauw". Beitou Hot spring area was under cultivation long time ago, even during the reign of Emperor Kungshui of Ching Dynasty. During Japanese occupation, a Japanese built the "Tienguo House" hot spring hotel, which was not only the start for the glorious era of Beitou Hot spring area, but also the origin of Taiwan's hot spring history.

Although the glory of Beitou Hot Spring is gone now, the strong sulfuric scent in the hot spring bathing pool is unforgettable. Beitou is still a nice place for enjoying a hot spring bath in northern Taiwan. The hot spring hotels and public bathhouses mostly center around Chungshan Rd., Yoya Rd., and Husan Alley. Spring water here, however, varies according to its geological location and have different treatments for different illness as well.

There are 3 types of Beitou Hot spring. They are appraised as 3 Famous Hot spring in Beitou. First is the green sulfur (acid sulfate chloride) hot spring in Hell Valley, which is good for curing ski diseases and arthritis. Second is the white sulfur (acid sulfate) hot spring which is good for treating skin diseases, arthritis, and gastrointestinal diseases. Both I-tsun Hotel and Spring City Resort use white sulfur hot spring. Third is the neutral iron-bearing hot spring, which is also good for curing skin diseases and arthritis.

Transportation:
Take Tamshui Line of MRT and get off at Beitou Station. Then transfer to Hsing Beitou Line and get off at "Hsing Beitou" station. Take the exit of MRT, here is the Hsing Beitou Park.

Website: Beitou Hot Spring Museum, Beitou Hot Springs Region