Ruisui Hot Springs lies alongside the Xiuguluan River. The spring water is classified as sodium bicarbonate type — popularly known as "beauty springs" — pale yellow in color with relatively high iron content, at temperatures of approximately 50 to 60 degrees Celsius. This hot spring area sits near the suture zone between the Eurasian Plate and the Philippine Sea Plate, making it rich in geothermal resources and one of the longest-established, most concentrated hot spring resort clusters in the Hualien-Taitung Rift Valley.
Highlights of Ruisui Hot Springs
Ruisui Hot Springs sits on the eastern bank of the Xiuguluan River, in a geological zone near the suture between the Eurasian and Philippine Sea plates, where geothermal activity is vigorous. The water's high sodium bicarbonate content leaves skin feeling slightly silky after soaking. The water also contains ferrous ions that oxidize on contact with air, giving the spring a pale yellow to orange-red hue — making this one of the more distinctive hot spring types in Taiwan.
The hot spring area is distributed along the river, surrounded by the agricultural landscape of the Hualien-Taitung Rift Valley — rice paddies, tea gardens, and pastures stretching wide. Several lodging options within the area offer private bath rooms or outdoor pools, some with views over the Xiuguluan River channel. Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant climate, making it ideal to end a rift valley cycling or river rafting trip with a relaxing soak.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
Practical Information
Getting There & Time
- From Hualien City, head south along Provincial Highway 9 for approximately 70 kilometers to Ruisui Township, then follow signs for Wenquan Road. Driving time is roughly 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Most hot spring lodges charge for private bath rooms; booking ahead is recommended, especially on weekends when availability fills up quickly.
- Hot springs can be enjoyed year-round. Autumn and winter (October to February of the following year) offer cooler ambient temperatures, making the contrast between air and water most satisfying.
Nearby Connections
- Heading north, you can add a visit to Wuhe Tea Plantation or Tabalang (Tabalong) Village. Heading south, the route can extend to Yuli Township.
- The Xiuguluan River rafting endpoint is near Changhong Bridge, where you can connect to the East Coast (Shihtiping) itinerary.
Sources: Hualien County Government Tourism Information, Central Geological Survey public data. Photos to be replaced with Dio's own shots.