Getting into hot water: Tengchong, Yunnan

Tengchong, Yunnan

The Hot Sea Hot Spring is the largest of its kind in Tengchong. Peng Nian / For China Daily

The little frontier town of Tengchong in Yunnan combines mesmerizing elements from a volcano, forests, wetlands to native color. It also has the richest hot spring resources in the whole of China.

The Hot Sea Hot Spring, about 30 km away from the county town, is the largest of its kind in Tengchong. Built in the national geothermal park, the spring’s water is rich in minerals, such as sulfur, iron, and silicon. The well-equipped resort has a swimming pool and a number of independent outdoor or indoor spas. There is a luxurious hotel in the park, too.

Cheaper and quieter spas are also popular. The Huangguaqing Hot Spring, for example, is preferred by many for its location in a valley that is green all year round.

Here, a special bathing ritual is strictly adhered to.

A steam bath comes first. The steam holes on the bed are laid with sand and cobblestones before they are covered by a thick layer of fresh pine leaves and herbs. Finally, a grass mat is laid on top. The visitor lies down with a blanket.

As the steam gathers heat, perspiration begins to flow and a little rubbing down will help cleanse the pores.

A soak in the spring water then refreshes and soothes away the stress.

The Cherry Blossoms Valley Spa, about 30 km from Tengchong, is an all-natural outdoor spa.