臺北市政府文化局

Up the hill from Xinbeitou metro station, away from the bustling Beitou Hot Spring District, is a tranquil area filled with greenery and buildings: Beitou Zhongxin New Village. Passing under the arched gate entrance that restores the character of the old military dependent village, the visitor steps onto the village’s main thoroughfare, which like the rest of the village is defined by a distinctive color scheme of red doors, cement tiles, and green wooden windows. Row upon row of buildings showcase the unique architectural adaptations of former military dependents, who ingeniously expanded their homes within the constraints of the narrow living environment.

Zhongxin Village is also Taiwan’s only military dependent village with hot springs. At the end of the main road lies the village’s most iconic feature—the hot spring bathhouse. In the past, the water in the pool was shared, so people could not immerse themselves but had to use a ladle to scoop water over themselves. Modern bathing habits did not exist in the past, and residents often found the sulfurous smell of the hot springs unpleasant. 

But taking it in turns to bathe created a social window for adults and children alike. The scene of villagers lining up according to age remains etched in people’s memories. Visitors to Zhongxin Village can explore the abundant exhibits and listen to stories of lives past. As you stroll through the winding alleyways, it’s worth slowing down to experience the power of healing as you are enveloped in the mist of the hot springs.