Wulai Day Trip from Taipei: Hot Springs & Things to Do

Just 27 km south of Taipei, Wulai (烏來, Wūlái) is a small mountain village with strong Atayal roots, steamy hot springs, pretty forest trails, and some seriously good street food.

It’s super easy to get to from the capital, making it a great choice if you’re after a quieter alternative to often-crowded Beitou. Even though Wulai has gained popularity in recent years, it’s still a bit of a hidden gem in my opinion, and a fun day trip (or even an overnight stay if you want more time to soak in the hot springs).

I’ve visited Wulai several times, and what I love most is the food and the vibe. Strolling along the Old Street, snacking on tián bù là and barbecued mochi, then hopping on the little train up to the waterfall — it’s a simple day out, but one that’s always fun and low-key.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best things to do in Wulai, from soaking in hot springs to sampling indigenous street food and everything in between.

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How to Get to Wulai from Taipei

Getting to Wulai from Taipei is straightforward; whether you’re using public transport, driving yourself, or opting for a private tour, it won’t take more than an hour to get there.

If you’ve already looked into Beitou for hot springs, Wulai might not be the first place that comes to mind — but don’t overlook it. In my opinion, Wulai has way more personality. It’s less touristy, more affordable, and surrounded by forested hills instead of city buildings. Plus, you get a great mix of local food, nature, and Atayal culture — not just hot springs.

By Bus (Budget-Friendly)

The easiest way to reach Wulai is by taking Bus 849 from near Xindian MRT Station (the last stop on the green line). The ride takes about 45 minutes and costs NT$15 one way. Buses run frequently, but they can get crowded on weekends, so it’s best to go early.

I’ve taken this bus several times—it’s efficient, scenic, and drops you off right near Wulai Old Street.

By Car or Scooter (Most Flexible)

Driving to Wulai is also a convenient option, especially if you want to explore at your own pace. It’s about a 40-minute drive from central Taipei, and the road winds along the river with some beautiful scenery.

We’ve driven this route before and found parking along Wenquan Street (just across the river from Old Street), though spots fill up fast on weekends. If you can’t find street parking, there’s also a big paid parking lot near the Visitor Center, about a 5-minute walk away.

Scooters are another fun choice if you’re comfortable with mountain roads. Just make sure to have a valid license and check the weather, as the roads can be slippery when wet.

Private Driver (Most Comfortable)

If you’d rather skip public transport and enjoy a more comfortable experience, you can hire a private driver for the day. This is a great option if you’re traveling with kids or seniors, or if you just want to see more without dealing with logistics.

A tour like this New Taipei Private Car Charter Day Tour, typically includes a pickup from your hotel in Taipei and stops at top attractions like Wulai Waterfall, Old Street, Lovers’ Bridge, the trolley ride, and Yun Hsien Resort.

Wulai’s just one of many great getaways from the city. If you’re after more ideas, here’s my full guide to the best day trips from Taipei.

Best Things to Do in Wulai

Wulai’s an easy place to explore on foot, and there’s plenty to do without needing a packed itinerary. Between the hot springs, waterfalls, snack stalls, and nearby trails, you can easily fill a relaxed day. Here’s what to check out while you’re in town.

Soak in the Hot Springs

Soaking in a hot spring is kind of the whole point of coming to Wulai — and luckily, there are plenty of options. The town sits in a geothermal valley, and most hot spring hotels are clustered around the Old Street, just a short walk from where the bus drops you off.

You’ll find everything from basic public bathhouses to private rooms with river views. If you’re not staying overnight, many hotels also offer short soak sessions for walk-in guests. Most places post their prices outside, but it’s totally fine to walk in and ask. Bring cash if you can — not all bathhouses take cards, especially the smaller ones.

Here’s a general idea of what to expect:

• Budget bathhouses or basic private tubs: around NT$500–800 for 60–90 minutes
• Mid-range private hot spring rooms with a view: NT$800–1500
• High-end spa suites or hotel rooms with hot spring tubs: NT$2000+, especially on weekends

You can also book more upscale hot spring experiences online. This one on Klook includes a private tub with river views and typically costs under NT$1000, depending on the time slot.

While most visitors stick to hotels and bathhouses these days, you might still see locals soaking in makeshift outdoor pools by the river. Official access is limited, and conditions vary, but it’s something Wulai was once known for. If you’re curious, check the riverside near the bridges — just be mindful of signage and safety, since these aren’t maintained.

Best Hot Spring Hotels in Wulai

Whether you’re staying the night or just popping in for a soak, there’s a decent mix of hot spring hotels in Wulai with something for every budget.

• Volando Urai Spring Spa & Resort (Luxury): If you’re going all out, this is the place. Volando Urai sits right on the river with gorgeous views, gorgeous decor, and a full-on resort vibe. It’s definitely a splurge, but if you’re celebrating something or just want a truly peaceful getaway, it’s hard to beat.

• Pause Landis Resort Wulai (Luxury): A great high-end pick if you want something comfortable and well-designed, but without the ultra-luxury price tag. Rooms are clean and modern, and each one has a private hot spring tub with mountain or river views.

• Full Moon Spa (Mid-Range): A solid mid-range pick with mountain views and in-room hot spring tubs. Rooms are spacious, and the location’s great if you want to be close to Old Street but not right in the thick of things.

• Hot Spring World (Budget): A good budget-friendly option with clean rooms and basic hot spring facilities. It’s nothing fancy, but it’s well-located and usually one of the more affordable stays in Wulai.

Tips for Using Hot Springs in Taiwan

If it’s your first time visiting a hot spring in Taiwan, here are a few things to know before you hop in:

• Public pools at hot spring hotels are often gender-separated — and yep, that usually means going in naked. Private tubs are a good option if you’re not comfortable with that.
• Always rinse off before getting into any pool. Most places have shower stations for this.
• Avoid the water covering your chest, especially your heart — and don’t stay in too long. A good rule is 20 to 30 minutes at a time.
• Cool down between soaks, especially if you’re hopping between hot and cold pools.
• Skip the soak if you have high blood pressure, heart conditions, or open wounds.
• Drink water before and after — soaking can dehydrate you more than you’d think.
• Read the signs posted at the facilities, especially if you’re visiting a hotel with specific etiquette or safety instructions.

While I feel Taiwan’s hot spring culture is generally pretty relaxed, it’s worth being mindful of local customs so everyone can enjoy the experience.

Ride the Mini Train to the Wulai Waterfall

This is one of my favorite things to do in Wulai. The Wulai Scenic Train is a cute little trolley that runs from near Old Street up to the base of Wulai Waterfall — and yes, it’s touristy, but it’s also genuinely fun.

The ride is short but saves you some uphill walking, which can be a lifesaver in Taiwan’s sticky weather. The waterfall itself is about 80 meters tall and, in my opinion, one of the prettiest in Taiwan. There are a few lookout spots and small cafés nearby if you want to hang around for a bit.

You can also take the cable car (gondola) up the mountain for more views, though it’s not essential unless you’re really into scenery or planning to check out Yun Hsien Resort at the top.

Go for a Walk (or a Hike)

If you’re not up for a full-on hike but still want to explore a bit, just strolling along the river is a nice way to enjoy the scenery.

Wulai also has a few easy walking trails that are super accessible. One option I really enjoyed was taking the mini train up to Wulai Waterfall, then walking back down along Pubu Road. It’s about a 30-minute stroll (longer if you stop for coffee or photos), and you’ll pass the Lovers’ Trail observation deck (情人步道‑觀景台) with great views over the valley. You can find the observation deck here on Google Maps. It’s super relaxing, doesn’t take much effort, and makes a nice break.

If you’re into more serious hiking, there are longer routes around Wulai, too. The Jia Jia Liao Stream Trail runs all the way to Sanxia. It’s about 20 km long and gets pretty remote, so only go if you’re experienced and have planned ahead.

That said, for most visitors (myself included), a short nature walk is more than enough.

Try the Local Food

Taiwan has long been a food lover’s paradise, and even topped a CNN reader poll as the world’s best food destination back in 2015. While that result sparked debate, there’s no denying Taiwan’s street food scene is rich, diverse, and constantly evolving.

Wulai, with its strong Atayal roots, offers a different flavor profile than what you’ll find in bigger cities. Here, you’ll find indigenous ingredients like wild boar sausage, bamboo-tube rice, and millet-based snacks alongside classic Taiwanese street food.

The easiest place to sample everything is Wulai Old Street, where food stalls and small restaurants line the walkway. Some dishes may look (uhm) a bit strange, especially if you’re new to Taiwanese street food, but don’t let that stop you. In my experience, they almost always taste better than they look!

If you’re a street food fan, don’t stop here: Taiwan’s night markets are a whole different (and delicious) experience.

My Top Must-Try Aboriginal Foods in Wulai

Wulai’s food scene offers a unique mix of traditional Taiwanese snacks and indigenous Atayal flavors. If you’re visiting the Old Street, here are some my top picks worth trying:

• Barbecued Mochi (烤麻糬, kǎo máshǔ): This chewy glutinous rice snack is grilled over charcoal, then served with sweet toppings like condensed milk and crushed peanuts. It’s simple but incredibly satisfying.

• Wild Boar Sausage (山豬香腸, shān zhū xiāngcháng): A local specialty with a smoky, gamey flavor. If wild boar’s not your thing, go for the classic Taiwanese pork sausage (香腸, xiāngcháng) — just be ready for a sweeter taste than Western-style sausages.

• Sticky Rice Bamboo Tubes (竹筒飯, zhútǒng fàn): Bamboo tubes stuffed with sticky rice, veggies, and sometimes meat. So yum and fun to eat. Super filling too!

• Fish Cake (甜不辣, tián bù là): Made from fish paste, this popular snack is kind of a Taiwanese twist on Japanese oden (and also my absolute favorite street snack). It’s usually broiled, deep-fried, or grilled, then served with a sweet-savory sauce.

• Various Eggs: You’ll find all kinds of eggs here — from soy-marinated to tea eggs and even quail. Sizes, colors, and textures vary, so it’s a fun item to explore if you’re feeling curious.

If you’re vegetarian, don’t worry — there are still options. Many stalls sell fresh fruit, and most restaurants offer a few veggie dishes. Just keep in mind that some places might add a meat-based sauce, so it’s worth asking before you order. If you want to say it in Mandarin, my Chinese phrases guide covers a few handy lines to help you out.

Have you been to Wulai? If you’ve got anything to add to this guide, let me know in the comments below so that I can keep this post updated! And if you’re still piecing together your full Taipei itinerary, I’ve got a 5-day Taipei plan that includes Wulai as an easy day trip.

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