Geothermal Valley, Hell Valley, Ghost Lake Introduction
Geothermal Valley is located next to Beitou Hot Spring Park and is one of the sources of Beitou Hot Springs. Due to the constant diffusion of sulfurous steam, it is reminiscent of a terrifying hell, hence it is also known as "Hell Valley" or "Ghost Lake." The hot springs here are the hottest in the Datun Volcano Group, with a surreal landscape filled with sulfur fog that resembles a fairyland, making it one of the Eight Scenic Spots and Twelve Beautiful Views of Taiwan during the Japanese colonial period. The stones in Geothermal Valley contain the radioactive element "radium," known as "Beitou Stone," which is the only mineral in the world named after a location in Taiwan. Currently, this mineral is found only in Beitou, Taiwan, and Tamagawa, Japan. In recent years, a Beitou Stone Protection Area has been established to preserve Beitou Stone. Visitors can not only feel the ambiance of the hot spring town but also gain a deeper understanding of this unique mineral. The temperature of the spring water in Geothermal Valley ranges from 80°C to 100°C, classified as a hydrochloric acid spring. The water quality is highly acidic and corrosive, commonly referred to as "blue sulfur spring" and "sulfur head." Previously, many visitors used the high-temperature spring water to cook "onsen eggs," but in recent years, cooking eggs in Geothermal Valley has been prohibited to protect the quality of the hot spring water and to prevent accidents from slips. When visiting Geothermal Valley, please refrain from bringing food to avoid disappointment! Now, Geothermal Valley has been renovated and reemerges with a new look, featuring a lakefront trail and hot spring experience facilities, including hand bath entrance (cleansing hand mineral spring) and love seats designed with a sloped surface. Visitors can stroll along the newly constructed lakefront trail, experience the steam spa of nature, and enjoy the beautified landscaping of the park, showcasing a brand new fairyland-like appearance.
