Visit Beitou, the hot springs core of Taipei, filled with spas, public baths and museums that use the thermal springs. Explore the Taiwanese tradition of bathing in them. All types of parks and resorts complement the temples and cultural centers of this eclectic haven.

For a comprehensive understanding of the locals’ relationship with thermal waters, head to the Beitou Hot Springs Museum. The former bathhouse has an intriguing front combining Western Victorian elements with traditional Japanese wooden fixtures. Explore the exhibits to learn how the hot springs drew movie stars to the district.

Try the bubbling sulfuric pools for yourself in the nearby Beitou Hot Springs Park. Here, you can choose between multiple pools of varying temperatures.

For a particularly scenic view of the hot springs, visit the Beitou Thermal Valley (Hell Valley) and walk along its raised platform. Look down on the boiling water, whose steam engulfs the setting and produces an otherworldly atmosphere.

Of course, Beitou is more than just its volcanic water. Go west to walk along the eastern bank of the Tamsui River and see the Guandu Bridge and Guandu Temple. Beside the temple is a mountain that provides stunning views of a mangrove swamp.

Learn about different aspects of the local culture through the Taiwan Folk Arts Museum, the Taipei City Beitou Sports Center and the Kaidagelan Cultural Museum.

As evening falls, venture into the Shipai Night Market and try the stinky tofu and dumplings, among other interesting culinary delights.

To get to the center of Beitou, which lies in the northern outskirts of Taipei, drive north from the city center for 9 miles (14 kilometers). Metro lines and buses also travel regularly to the MRT Shipai Station.

On the way, stop at adjacent zones such as the Shilin District, the Zhongshan District and the Datong District.