The suggestion came at night. It was late and rainy, the weather was definitely less than ideal. However, Zac is apparently one of the more rambunctious Australians, because according to him the weather was perfect for a visit to the Hot Springs at Xinbeitou. I was less than convinced. We played a round of rock, paper, scissors with the winner deciding if we would go or not. I lost. Next thing I knew we are on the subway heading north. The dark night was not softened by the falling rain - in fact a chilly wind was causing me to continually regret having to go.
Dismounting the subway we walked through the rain. The 40NT (1.50) was paid at the door and I saw five pools of water. People lounged on the rocks next to them while others sat in the water soaking. Zac having abandoned me for the sake of the conversation of a young Asian woman, I was forced to discover the springs alone. I headed towards a pool in the center. Looking sufficiently bewildered, I drew the attention of a middle aged Taiwanese man who was exiting the pool. He paused and kindly explained to me how I should not just dip my feet (people would think I was washing them off and getting the water dirty), he showed me how to wash my feet off with the tiny bucket set on the stone steps leading to the pool, he explained how the pool below the one we were at was 'general' temperature, and the temperature increased the higher up the pool was located, he pointed out the cold water pool, and finally politely excused himself after cautioning me to enter slowly.
I did, the water was deliciously hot and relaxing. People lounged, and thankfully no one stared. I was the only Caucasian there, but people politely minded their own business. An older lady in a swimming cap that looked as if it had come straight out of another era sat beside me and inquired where I was from. She explained how everyone was very careful to not get the water dirty. People were considerate and followed the rules so that everyone could enjoy the springs.With restrained concern, she explained how it was dangerous for women to stay in the hot water for too long. She suggested that I climb up on the rocks and cool off for awhile. I followed her advice, climbing in and out frequently. My sore muscles relaxed and the rain that was still falling no longer felt so cold.
By the time we left at ten, I was done cursing Zac for dragging me out there. In fact, I was so mellow and relaxed that I couldn't help but smile. I am so lucky to be living in the best place on the planet.:)
I'm guessing this was the community pools half way down the stream. A cold rainy day is actually the best time to go because at most other times it is crowded beyond belief. I've gone a few times where it was so crowded that I've decided to just site on some rocks by the stream and soak my feet.
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