Geothermal Valley, Hell Valley, Ghost Lake Introduction
The Geothermal Valley is located next to Beitou Hot Spring Park and is one of the sources of Beitou Hot Spring. It is often surrounded by sulfur vapor year-round, evoking images of a terrifying hell, which is why it is also known as "Hell Valley" or "Ghost Lake." The hot springs here are the hottest within the Datun Mountain volcanic group, and the surreal scenery filled with sulfur mist resembles a fairyland, making it one of the Eight Scenic Spots 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 named after a place in Taiwan among thousands of minerals worldwide. Currently, only Beitou in Taiwan and Tamagawa in Japan possess this mineral. In recent years, to promote the conservation of Beitou Stone, the Beitou Stone Protection Area has been established. Visitors 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 belongs to the hydrochloric acidic spring category. The hot spring water is highly acidic, possessing corrosive properties, commonly referred to as "Green Sulfur Spring" and "Sulfur Water Head." Previously, tourists often cooked "hot spring eggs" using the high-temperature spring water; however, in recent years, to protect the water quality and prevent accidents from slips, cooking eggs in Geothermal Valley has been prohibited. When visiting Geothermal Valley, it is advisable not to bring food to avoid disappointment! The current Geothermal Valley has been transformed into a brand new appearance, featuring a lakeside walking trail and hot spring experience facilities, including hand-soaking mineral spring water at the entrance and a love seat designed with a large slope. Visitors can stroll around the newly constructed lakeside path, experience the natural steam spa, and enjoy the beautifully landscaped area, presenting a fairy-tale-like new look.
