Geothermal Valley, Hell Valley, Ghost Lake Introduction
The Geothermal Valley, located next to Beitou Hot Spring Park, is one of the sources of Beitou Hot Springs. It is often shrouded in sulfurous steam, evoking images of a terrifying hell, and is therefore also known as "Hell Valley" or "Ghost Lake." The hot springs here are the hottest in the Datun Mountain volcanic group, and the dreamy landscape filled with sulfur steam creates a fairy-tale-like atmosphere. It was one of the eight scenic spots and twelve attractions in 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 named after a place in Taiwan among thousands of minerals worldwide. This mineral can only be found in Beitou, Taiwan, and in Tamagawa, Japan. In recent years, a Beitou Stone Protection Zone has been established to restore the Beitou Stone. Visitors to this area can not only feel the charm of the hot spring town but also gain a deeper understanding of this unique mineral. The water temperature in Geothermal Valley ranges from 80°C to 100°C and is classified as a hydrochloric acid spring, with high acidity and corrosive quality, commonly referred to as "Green Sulfur Spring" and "Sulfur Waterhead." Previously, many tourists would use the high-temperature water in Geothermal Valley to cook "hot spring eggs," but in recent years, to protect the water quality and prevent accidents from falls, cooking eggs here has been prohibited. When visiting Geothermal Valley, be sure not to bring food to avoid disappointment! The revamped Geothermal Valley now showcases a new appearance, featuring a lakeside trail and hot spring experience facilities, including a hand-washing area (pure mineral spring water) and a love seat with a sloped design. Visitors can stroll along the newly constructed lakeside trail and enjoy the natural steam spa experience, enhanced by the park's landscaping, presenting a fairy-tale-like new scene.
