Yang Ming Shan Hot Springs & Yehliu Geographic Park

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

Towering mountains in green hues, lush mystical forests, deep rivers and gorges, steaming natural hot springs and moon-like landscapes; these are the wonders that Taiwan offers those willing to explore its natural beauty.

You can do just that during this full-day adventure that begins at your pier in Keelung. Accompanied by a knowledgeable and friendly guide, you will set out on a scenic journey across the area's gorgeous countryside. As you travel, your guide will fascinate you with tales about the area's culture, history and geological make-up.

Your destination is the Tienlai Hot Springs Resort - nestled among the verdant slopes of Yangmingshan National Park - where you will have two hours to luxuriate in the outdoor, hot springs pool there!

Taiwan is positioned on the "ring of fire" which encircles the Pacific Rim, along the border of a series of tectonic plates. Though the volcanoes of the park are now extinct, beneath lies a huge reservoir of magma, which pushes heat up through rocks to the surface, emerging as hot springs and steaming fumaroles.

So slip into your swimsuit and experience firsthand what the Taiwanese have enjoyed for centuries; the luxury and relaxation of hot-spring bathing. You'll be enveloped by the soothing, milky waters of the mildly alkaline, sulfuric hot springs that some believe have healing powers.

As long as you're indulging your body, enjoy the delicious offerings of a sumptuous, buffet lunch, served to you at the resort. Appetizers, main courses, local dishes, dessert and beverages. You'll come away quite satisfied.

Re-board your motorcoach for a drive to one of Asia's most unusual landscapes: Yehliu Geo Park, famous for its spectacular and bizarre rock formations. Yehliu is a cape that stretches from mountains 1,700 meters into the sea. Walk along this lunar-like landscape that abuts a pounding sea and feel the amazing, raw power of the millions of years of geological forces that have shaped it.

Have your cameras at the ready as you encounter honeycombed rocks teeming with ocean life, rocks in the shape of ginger roots, candle rocks with their ball-shaped cores, and over 180 mushroom rock formations. Amongst them, you'll find Yehliu's most iconic landmark, the Queen's Head Rock, resembling the profile of an Egyptian Queen. There are others with specific names like Beehive, Elephant and Fairy Shoe. Let your own imagination run wild, as you explore the curves and shadows of the rocks to see what familiar shapes you can find here. Perhaps even name a few yourself!

Prior to your return drive back to your ship, visit the gift shop to purchase souvenirs to add to the photographs and memories you'll take home with you after your day exploring Taiwan's natural wonders.

Special Notes:

Bring your bathing suit, a towel and a bathing cap if you wish to soak at the hot springs. Changing rooms, lockers and showers are available at the Hot Springs.