Kukuan Hot Springs, a royal experience

The hot springs in Kukuan are scattered in the river valley and river beds which originate in the surrounding mountains. The water in these hot springs is widely acclaimed for its therapeutic properties because of an old myth.

There were hot springs in Kukuan from as early as the period when Taiwan was colonized by Japan. It is said that the Meiji emperor of Japan frequented the hot springs in Kukuan. The emperor spoke highly of the water quality and decided to name the hot springs after himself. When he returned to Japan, his empress gave birth to a prince. From that moment on, the legend began that those who take a dip in the Kukuan hot springs will have a baby boy.

Today, owners of the Kukuan hot springs have introduced the concept of a 'hot spring spa' and have built spas integrated into the natural landscape. Tourists are able to enjoy the hot springs whilst surrounded by forests or mountain creeks.

The spring water of Kukuan is drinkable, and has an average temperature of between 48 and 60 degrees Celsius. It has a PH value of about 7.9. It is rich in bicarbonate ions and sodium which are a tonic to arthritis, neuralgia and skin disease.