The eastern part of Taiwan not only offers pleasant scenery but is also rich in hot-spring resources. Among the best known of the hot springs here are those of Zhiben, Wulu, and Green Island in Taitung County, and those of Antong, Ruisui, Hungye, and Wenshan in Hualien County.

The Zhiben hot springs are situated in the Zhiben River valley. In addition to its hot mineral water, the area also offers gorges, waterfalls, a forest recreation area, and other natural scenic attractions.

Go up the valley from Zhiben hot springs to the Guanlin suspension bridge, which is the entrance to the Zhiben Forest Recreation Area. The 80-meter-long vermilion red bridge spans the bed of the river, embellishing the deep green on each side and the rushing water below and adding beauty to the scene. The recreation area is filled with green trees, many of them with intertwined trunks; there are explanatory plaques for the various types of plants, making this an ideal place for walking, enjoying a green shower and getting to know different kinds of vegetation. There are also a campground, barbecue area, and other facilities for those who want to camp out or have a picnic.