The Vibe: Soaking serene waters.

The Area: Located in the tiny village of Guguan in the Taichung valley, famed for its natural hot springs. Encircled by a mountain range and forests, the natural spring waters of the valley flow through the property’s outdoor Water Garden, which encompasses a wooded glen for meditative walks, a serene outdoor bath area and even a bamboo grove.

The DNA: ‘Flow’ is a central theme here, from the canals that feed from mountain springs and swirl around the Chinese firs and Formosan gum trees dotting the garden – some of which date back to Japanese colonial times – to the public lounge areas neatly designed for the crisp mountain breeze to waft through. The architecture is intentionally kept open and simple, with low-slung sofas and benches scattered around to soak up the scenery.

Suite-Me-Up: Every guest room features a hot spring floor with a private outdoor hot spring bath, as well as private outdoor terraces. Guests can also opt to receive healing treatments at the spa as well as a separate public bath area on a ridge, offering views of the undulating valley and mountain range.

Accolades: Condé Nast Traveler Hot List 2020

✅ free Wi-Fi • size matters: 49 rooms & suites • hotel opened: June 2019 • architecture & interior design: Azuma Architect & Associates ✅ free on-site parking • no pets allowed • 24-hour front desk