When it comes to hot spring hotels in Jiaoxi, there are dozens to choose from. Conveniently situated just a short walk from both the train station and the inter-city bus station, Yamagata Kaku is the biggest hotel in the area and a popular choice for visitors. A 4-star hotel, it has everything you want in a staycation: in-room hot spring tubs, spacious bathrooms, restaurants within the hotel and of course luxurious onsen facilities.

As the name indicates, the hotel has Japanese influence, a common trait of many hot spring hotels – an ode to the onsen culture so loved by Taiwanese people. Yamagata Kaku marries the Japanese style with a nod to local indigenous cultures in design. The second floor hot spring facilities include bathing areas at various temperatures, saunas, large dressing rooms and lounge areas. There are also three dining areas in the hotel: Yonezawa, serving farm to table food with scenic views of the ocean, a Japanese ramen restaurant on the first floor and Kavalan Hall, a banquet hall at the top floor usually used for events.

The rooms are very spacious, with a generously sized bathroom that leads into an outdoor shower and large tub that can be filled on demand with hot spring water. In terms of amenities, they are stocked with everything from tooth brushes to slippers and (Japanese) robes to a kettle and tea set. So tack on room service and there really isn’t any excuse to leave your room after you check in. Settle in, bring that tea set to the hot tub and sit back.