From Taipei: Taipingshan & Jiuzhize Hot Spring Private Tour — A Detailed Review

Imagine escaping the bustling city for a day to breathe in some of Taiwan’s most scenic spots — without the hassle of public transport or group tours. This private tour, priced at $164 per person, offers a convenient, personalized way to explore Taipingshan National Forest Recreation Area and Jiuzhize Hot Spring with a friendly chauffeur and a flexible itinerary.

What we love about this experience are two things in particular: the ease of having a dedicated driver who handles all the logistics, allowing us to relax and focus on the scenery, and the chance to customize the day — whether it’s hiking, soaking in hot springs, or simply enjoying the views. That said, one thing to consider is that some hot spring activities involve additional costs, so it’s wise to plan for extra expenses if you want to indulge fully.

This tour suits travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and authentic natural encounters over rigid schedules. If you’re eager to see Taiwan’s lush forests, unwind in thermal waters, and learn a bit about local history from a knowledgeable guide, this private trip hits all those marks.

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Key Points

Private, stress-free transportation with pick-up and drop-off at your Taipei hotel
Flexible itinerary customized to your interests, with a professional chauffeur guiding the way
Visiting top natural sites—Taipingshan’s serene forests and Jiuzhize’s rejuvenating hot springs
Additional costs for hot spring access and optional experiences like hot spring egg boiling or train rides
Ideal for small groups or individuals seeking a personalized, authentic Taiwan experience
Learn about Taiwan from guides who are friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share local stories

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From Taipei: Private Custom Yilan Tour with Local Guide

An In-Depth Look at This Private Tour Experience

The Comfort of Private Transportation

The real charm of this tour lies in the private vehicle—whether it’s a car, van, or mid-size bus depending on your group size. We appreciated the courteous and professional chauffeur, who handled all the driving and navigation, freeing us from the stress of figuring out public transit or parking. You’ll be picked up directly from your Taipei hotel, making the start of your day smooth and hassle-free.

Having a dedicated driver means your schedule can be flexible—if you want to linger longer at a particular spot or skip a stop, it’s easy to communicate. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy Taiwan’s scenic countryside without worrying about the logistics, which is a huge bonus for anyone unfamiliar with local transportation.

Exploring Taipingshan National Forest Recreation Area

Once you leave Taipei, you’ll head towards Taipingshan, a highlight for nature lovers. Known for its lush forests, ancient trees, and peaceful atmosphere, it’s a prime spot to breathe in Taiwan’s natural beauty. The tour description emphasizes the “serene atmosphere,” and we found this to be true—an ideal place for a leisurely walk or a light hike.

Kevin’s review sums this up well: “Conifer tree-lined hiking was breathtaking,” highlighting the scenic beauty and the peaceful setting that makes Taipingshan special. We loved the way the forest felt untouched, with fresh mountain air and the gentle sounds of nature. This isn’t a fast-paced stop but rather a peaceful retreat to enjoy the quiet and scenery.

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The Scenic Jianqing Historic Trail

Another aspect of the tour is the Jianqing Historic Trail, a trail that combines natural beauty with hints of local history. While the details are light, the trail offers scenic views and a chance to explore Taiwan’s past in a natural setting. If you’re interested in history or just enjoy walking amidst towering trees, this trail adds a meaningful layer to your day.

Relaxing in Jiuzhize Hot Spring

The hot springs are a major draw, offering an opportunity to unwind after your forest explorations. The tour gives you options: the Jiuzhize Outdoor Nude Bathing Area, which costs NT$150-200 depending on the day, or the smaller Wild Hot Spring pools for NT$400-500.

While the hot spring experience is optional, many travelers find it a perfect way to relax. The hot spring eggs or corn DIY experience adds a fun local twist if you’re feeling adventurous. Keep in mind that the hot springs involve additional expenses, and the outdoor nude bathing area requires a bit of comfort with the natural environment.

Additional Experiences and Options

If your group is interested, you can add a round-trip ticket for the Bong Bong Train at Taipingshan Lodge for NT$180, which offers a charming ride through the forest. This optional activity is a lovely way to see more of the scenery without much effort.

Value and Personalization

What sets this tour apart is the personalized service. Kevin’s review highlights the customizable nature of the experience, with the guide Alex providing engaging conversations and insights about Taiwan. The small-group size means you can tailor your time at each stop—whether you want to hike more, relax in the hot springs, or learn about the local flora and fauna.

Duration and Practicalities

The full-day format allows ample time to enjoy each site without feeling rushed. With hotel pickup and drop-off included, you don’t need to worry about transportation logistics. The price of $164 per person includes tolls, parking, fuel, and passenger insurance, making it a good deal considering the convenience and personalized attention.

Meals and beverages aren’t included, so you’ll want to bring snacks or plan to eat in nearby towns. Since the tour is available in English and Chinese, communication should be straightforward, especially with guides like Alex, who evidently enhances the experience with local knowledge.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private tour is best suited for travelers who prioritize comfort and flexibility. Small groups or individuals who want a tailored day that includes natural scenery, hot springs, and cultural insights will find it especially satisfying. If you’re eager for a day of hiking, soaking, and learning, this experience offers genuine value.

Those who enjoy exploring at their own pace without the constraints of large tour groups or public transportation will appreciate the personalized approach. It’s also a great choice for travelers who want to incorporate local experiences like hot spring DIY activities or scenic train rides into their itinerary.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re looking for a relaxed, well-organized day that combines Taiwan’s lush forests with soothing hot springs, this private tour is a compelling option. The personal chauffeur and customizable itinerary make for a stress-free experience, especially if you want to avoid the crowds and rigid schedules of larger tours.

For those interested in seeing natural beauty at a gentle pace, with the added bonus of local insights from guides, this trip offers a strong balance of comfort and authenticity. It’s particularly appealing if you’re traveling in a small group or solo and want the flexibility to shape your day around your interests.

However, keep in mind that some hot spring activities involve extra costs, so plan accordingly if you want to maximize your experience. If you’re seeking a seamless, scenic adventure with a touch of local flavor, this private tour fits the bill nicely.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, the tour is perfect for solo travelers or small groups. The private vehicle and guide make the experience very personalized, and you won’t be sharing with strangers.

How long is the tour?
It’s a full-day experience, with hotel pickup and drop-off included. This allows plenty of time at each stop to enjoy the scenery and activities.

What are the costs for hot spring activities?
Access to Jiuzhize Hot Spring’s outdoor nude bathing area costs NT$150-200 depending on the day, and the wild hot spring pools are NT$400-500. DIY experience costs about NT$50-70.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the experience is designed to be flexible. You can choose to hike more, relax in the hot springs, or explore additional things like the forest train ride.

What language support is available?
Guides speak both English and Chinese, ensuring clear communication regardless of your preferred language.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, some cash for optional activities, and possibly a swimsuit if you plan to enjoy the hot springs. Also, consider bringing snacks or drinks, as meals aren’t included.

This private tour combines Taiwan’s natural beauty with personalized service, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a relaxed, authentic taste of the island’s forests and thermal waters. Whether you’re a nature lover, a hot spring enthusiast, or simply seeking a day away from the city, this experience offers a memorable, well-rounded adventure.