Jiaoxi Township

Tucked in Yilan County‘s northern section, Taiwan, Jiaoxi Township is a rural enclave whose residents live among their natural surroundings and healing hot springs. Attracting guests from both close by and far, particularly those seeking respite from Taipei‘s bustling city, this stunning location has grown to be a top choice for rejuvenation.

The many hot springs in the township, a geological marvel that turned Jiaoxi into a sought-after weekend trip, support their claim to glory. Many of the natural thermal waters‘ lodging choices fit different budgets and palates. From small hotels to opulent resorts, Jiaoxi’s hospitality industry has expanded to meet the demand of its rising travel industry. Apart from private companies, several public facilities offer free access to their therapeutic waters, which increases their appeal. Often covered from the elements, these common areas allow visitors to enjoy leisurely foot baths, so enhancing community and shared well-being.

The respect of Jiaoxi’s beauty peaked when the Tourism Bureau of Taiwan bestowed upon her the prestigious title of one of the Top 10 Small Tourist Towns in March 2012. This accolade helped to confirm Jiaoxi’s must-see status, so enhancing its appeal to both domestic and international guests.

Jiaoxi’s appeal mostly comes from accessibility; many ways of mobility let simple travel to and from the township. Running the Jiaoxi Station along the Yilan Line, the Taiwan Railways Administration provides direct rail access to major cities. Kamalan Bus Inc. and Capital Star operate bus lines with fast connections to Taipei and Yilan City via the National Freeway 5, which crosses the amazing Snow Mountain Tunnel, for those who would rather drive. Moreover, another crucial artery enhancing the township’s connectivity is Provincial Highway 9.

Jiaoxi’s landscape harmonically combines modern conveniences, cultural legacy, and natural beauty. Comprising three cascades appealing to hikers and environmentalists, the Wofongci Waterfall is evidence of the unspoiled beauty of the area. The journey to these falls is an adventure in itself, guided by well-kept paths across lush forests and offering quiet times at rest stops and viewing pavilions.

The Tamkang University Lanyang Campus most shows the township’s commitment to education and creativity. Rising on Linmei Mountain, this modern learning center is an architectural wonder with incredible panoramic views in addition to a center of instruction. Day visitors see the large Lanyang Plain and the far-off Turtle Island; nighttime transforms the view into a hypnotic tapestry of lights across the lowlands.

For those seeking a more peaceful natural experience, the Longtan Lake Scenic Area presents a wonderful refuge. Surrounded on three sides by rich hills that offer a stunning backdrop for a variety of leisure activities, Longtan Lake, the largest of the five main lakes on the Lanyang plain, especially in the active spring and summer, lakefront fishermen and picnickers abound.

The several temples Jiaoxi has, each with architectural beauty and historical significance, improve her cultural scene. Designed in 1804, the Sietian Temple is the largest and oldest Kuankung Temple in Northern Taiwan. Apart from being a place of worship, this old structure serves as the focal point for important cultural events including the Spring and Autumn Ritual of Kuankung, which draws people from all around the island.

Further emphasizing the spiritual variety of the township is the unique round building shining as a lighthouse of faith among the surrounding hills, the Catholic Sanctuary of Our Lady of Wufengqi. The Zelan Temple and Citiangong Temple are two other well-known religious sites that accentuate Jiaoxi’s spiritual legacy on the great tapestry.

More than just tourist attractions, the hot springs that have made Jiaoxi well-known are vital for the local business and way of life. The rare ground-level hot spring here is sometimes referred to as a “beauty hot spring” because of its mineral-rich waters, which are supposed to have therapeutic effects for the skin. The public Tangwei Brook Park provides visitors access to personally experience these healing waters whether through a leisurely foot bath or a complete-body soak.

For those driven toward more active interests, Jiaoxi offers a variety of hiking paths appropriate for various skill levels. Along the Paoma Historical Trail, Linmei Shihpan Trail, Shengmu Hiking Trail, and the paths within the Wufongci Scenic Area, outdoor enthusiasts have the opportunity to find the natural beauty of the area. Especially the Linmei Shihpan Trail is well-known for its accessibility, which makes it a perfect choice for all kinds of visitors and families.

The haven for golfers will be the international standard 18-hole course set against the Lanyang Plain, the Linmei Golf Course. This big facility offers a difficult game as well as a fantastic vantage point from which to take in the surroundings.

Jiaoxi’s gastronomic scene is not to be undervalued; local cuisine captures the uniqueness of the region. Hot-spring tomatoes and hot spring glutinous rice cakes are among the odd products resulting from the geothermal abundance of the area. A local fruit, the oval kumquat has also become a common keepsake among visitors since it conveniently forms the sweet core of Jiaoxi.