In 1894 (the 20th year of the Guangxu era), German explorer Oueil discovered Beitou Hot Springs, opening a new chapter in Beitou's hot spring history. The following year, Osaka native Hirata Gengo experienced Beitou Hot Springs and was amazed by the excellent water quality and natural scenery. Recognizing Beitou's immense tourism and commercial potential, he established Taiwan's first hot spring inn, "Tengoku-an," in March 1896. From then on, Beitou's hot spring culture flourished, and Beitou became one of the four most famous hot springs during the Japanese colonial period.

During the Japanese era, Beitou's hot spring district developed rapidly. Various hotels and restaurants were established, along with distinctive local entertainment such as Nakashi street singing performances, creating Beitou's unique nightlife culture. To this day, Beitou remains an important tourism resource in Taiwan. Beitou has been praised as a "hot spring paradise" by the New York Times travel section.

• 2011: Awarded a three-star must-visit destination in the Michelin Green Guide
• 2012: Named one of Taiwan's Top 10 Tourism Towns
• 2012: Beitou Library named one of the 25 most beautiful public libraries in the world
• 2013: Selected as one of Taiwan's Top 10 Happiest Travel Destinations
• 2014: Received the "Three-Star Business District" rating in Taipei City
• 2015: Beitou Branch Library selected by "WHEN ON EARTH" as one of the 10 coolest green buildings in the world

Beitou Hot Springs are located in the hot spring zone beneath the Datun Volcanic Group. The spring quality varies by location, resulting in different mineral compositions and colors. Generally, Beitou's springs are sulfur-based and can be classified into three types: Green Sulfur, White Sulfur, and Iron Sulfur.

"White Sulfur" (acidic sulfate spring): Formed when mountain spring water absorbs volcanic gases and geothermal heat. The water appears yellowish-white with a mild sulfur scent.

"Green Sulfur" (transparent acidic hydrochloric spring): The water appears transparent with a greenish tint, also known as radium hot spring. Only Akita, Japan and Beitou have green sulfur springs worldwide.

"Iron Spring" (neutral sulfate spring): Has no distinct odor, appears as a transparent pale brown, with iron-calcium mineral deposits typically settled at the bottom of the pool.