Zhiben Hot Spring Longquanju: A Relaxed Mountain Getaway in Taitung County

Nestled in the misty, mineral-rich hills of Zhiben, Taitung County’s most beloved hot spring destination, 知本溫泉龍泉居 (Zhiben Hot Spring Longquanju) delivers a peaceful, unhurried retreat far from the crowds of Taiwan’s bustling capital. Tucked away on a quiet lane in Zhiben Hot Spring Village, this family-friendly hot spring hotel leans into the natural beauty of the region, making it ideal for travelers looking to unwind, soak in therapeutic waters, and explore Taitung’s unspoiled eastern coastline and mountains.

Hotel Overview

Located at No. 5, Lane 53, Longquan Road, Hot Spring Village, Taitung County, Longquanju balances rustic comfort with thoughtful amenities. All rooms are fitted with air conditioning, with both non-smoking and spacious family room options perfect for multi-generational trips or group getaways. Guests can book a range of wellness treatments at the on-site SPA and养生会馆 (health and wellness center), or simply relax on the sunlit outdoor terrace overlooking the surrounding forested hills. Practical perks include free public parking (with advance reservation required), 24-hour front desk service, and staff who speak both English and Mandarin for smooth communication with international travelers. Pet owners will be pleased to know that well-behaved pets are welcome at no extra charge, only requiring advance notice to the hotel. Note that the hotel does not offer on-site internet – a deliberate choice that encourages guests to disconnect from work and social media and fully embrace the slow rhythm of Taitung life.

Nearby Local Attractions

Longquanju’s central location in Zhiben puts three of Taitung’s top attractions within easy reach:

• Zhiben National Forest Recreation Area: Just a 10-minute drive from the hotel, this sprawling forest reserve features winding hiking trails past gurgling mountain streams, ancient banyan trees, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It’s home to diverse native wildlife, including Formosan rock macaques and hundreds of species of birds, making it ideal for casual day hikes or birdwatching.
• Zhiben Hot Spring Cultural Park: A 15-minute walk from Longquanju, this open-air park celebrates Zhiben’s centuries-old hot spring history, with free public foot soaking pools, traditional stone lantern walkways, and seasonal cultural events showcasing indigenous Amis and Paiwan arts.
• Taitung Seaside Park: A 25-minute drive east from the hotel, this sprawling coastal park features pristine sandy beaches, bike paths winding along the shore, and the iconic Jialulan Recreation Area, where local artists have installed driftwood sculptures that blend perfectly with the natural coastal landscape. Watch for stunning sunsets that paint the ocean in shades of orange and pink.

Travel Tips

To make the most of your stay, book your parking spot and pet accommodation at least one week in advance, as spaces fill up quickly during peak hot spring season (October to March). Since the hotel does not offer internet, download offline maps and any entertainment you want before arriving. If you plan to hike Zhiben Forest, bring sturdy walking shoes and insect repellent, and leave early in the morning to avoid midday heat in summer. For the best local dining, walk 10 minutes to the main Zhiben hot spring street to try wild mountain vegetable hot pot and fresh grilled mahi-mahi caught that morning off Taitung’s coast.