2016 Taipei Hot Spring Festival: Warm Autumn in Beitou

As the weather cools, it\'s the perfect time for hot pot and hot springs. When it comes to greater Taipei\'s most renowned bathing destination, Beitou Hot Springs takes the crown. The annual Taipei Hot Spring Festival in October lets you leisurely enjoy Beitou\'s hot springs while experiencing local culture - no wonder it draws attention every year.The Lin family from Shilin District has attended the Taipei Hot Spring Festival for several consecutive years. Mr. Lin says: "The activities are spectacular every year - last year we witnessed Japan\'s \'shrine collision\' blessing ceremony, which was truly thrilling, so we\'re really looking forward to this year!"

Diverse Activities: Experience Beitou\'s Unique Character

The hot spring industry has driven Beitou\'s local economic prosperity and brought together diverse cultures, shaping Beitou\'s distinctive character. "Hot springs, tavern cuisine, and Nakashi" are Beitou\'s three famous traditional features. Many historic buildings and cultural artifacts are well preserved, creating a fascinating blend of old and new. Visitors to Beitou often feel as if they\'re traveling through a time tunnel.

To help locals relive childhood memories and let visitors experience Beitou\'s unique cultural atmosphere, the 2016 Taipei Hot Spring Festival (now in its 15th year) features large-scale hot spring and food exhibition booths, plus various events combining tradition and fun - the nostalgic Nakashi Star Competition, Ming Hwa Yuan performances, creative Witch Singing Party, yukata fashion show, charity creative market, and more. The highlight bringing festivities to a climax is the energetic children\'s portable shrine and Beitou mascot "Witch Doll" street parade.

Shrine Parade: Community Excitement

Unlike the intense adult shrine-collision spectacle, the children\'s shrine parade is a cute and heartwarming street procession. Participating elementary students wear Japanese festival "happi" coats and carry the children\'s portable shrine gifted by Japan\'s Dogo Onsen Ryokan Cooperative - their adorable and eye-catching appearance is an annual parade highlight.

Even more special this year, Beitou Fu\'an Temple\'s Earth God joins the festivities. The "Earth God procession" will parade alongside "Witch Doll" and various themed mascots for a grand blessing ceremony. This spectacular festival deepens Taiwan-Japan cultural exchange while bringing a wave of excitement to the Hot Spring Festival.

Smart Guided Tours: Easy Dining, Shopping & Fun

Beyond the exciting activities, Beitou has many must-visit attractions and traditional local foods. This year\'s festival introduces the smartest new way to explore Beitou through technology. Download the "Hot Spring Witch GO" App for your personal online tour guide - walk, play, and explore with the Hot Spring Witch. The Lucky 7 promotion also gives you a chance to win NT$10,000+ premium suite accommodation vouchers!

Attend the Taipei Hot Spring Festival for hot springs, exhibitions, gourmet food, performances, and autumn scenery - dining, drinking, playing, and entertainment all in one!

2016 Taipei Hot Spring Festival Information

Dates: 10/20 (Thu) - 10/24 (Mon)

Hours: 10:30-20:30

Venues: Xinbeitou MRT Station plaza and south-side road, Beitou Qixing Park, Beitou Park

News source: China Times Digital