Xiaguan Hot Spring in Dali City
Introduction
Xiaguan Hot Springs, located 3 kilometers west of Dali City (大理市) in the Xier River Canyon (西洱河峡谷), lies alongside the Kunwan Highway (昆畹公路), also known as National Route 320 (320国道). Originally named Dali Desheng Pass (大理德胜关) and also called Tangzipu (塘子铺), the nearby village is now known as Qingcaizhuang (青菜庄). According to the “Zhaozhou Gazetteer” (赵州志), it states: “Deshengpu, to the north connects to Taihe County (太和县, now Dali Ancient Town), has Desheng Pass City.” This indicates that it was originally a strategic pass linking Dali to Baoshan (保山), later transforming into a marketplace, and eventually gaining fame for its hot springs.
- Location: 3 kilometers west of Dali City (大理市), in the Xier River Canyon (西洱河峡谷), alongside Kunwan Highway (昆畹公路)
- Water Temperature: 76°C
- Spring Flow Rate: 200 tons per day
- Source: Springs erupt from rock fissures
- Therapeutic Benefits: Beneficial for skin diseases and rheumatism
- Transport: A bus from Dali Passenger Transport Center can reach Xiaguan Hot Springs in about 30 minutes
- Accommodation: Nearby inns charge around 20 to 30 RMB per person per night
- Dining: Unique method of cooking fresh fish in spring water and local cold chicken rice noodles available at roadside eateries
Detailed Information
The hot spring water at Xiaguan flows from rock fissures, with a daily output of 200 tons at a temperature of 76°C. It contains over ten types of minerals, including carbonates, resulting in high-quality water. After bathing, the skin feels smooth and rejuvenated, providing certain benefits for skin conditions and rheumatism. As noted in Ming Tongxuan’s poem “Desheng Pass Hot Springs” (《德胜关温泉》):
蒸蒸本元气，澡雪人争浴。虽无泽物功，远胜贪泉屈。
“Rising steam embodies original energy, bathing in snow, people vie for immersion. Though lacking in worldly benefits, it surpasses the greedy springs.”
Xiaguan Hot Springs is nestled in a valley, backed by Mount Zhema (者摩山), with steep rocky cliffs facing the surging waters of the Xier River. The courtyard features pavilions and corridors, adorned with flowers that bloom year-round, creating a tranquil and picturesque environment—an ideal place for relaxation and recuperation.
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
The best times to visit are during the March Street Festival (三月街, March 15–20) and the Butterfly Festival (蝴蝶会, April 15) in Dali. With an annual average temperature of around 15°C, spring (March to April) is the optimal period following the cold winter.
Travel Reminders
When visitors feel tired from hiking or exploring parks, they can choose to relax at Xiaguan Hot Springs, which provides excellent bathing facilities. Positioned alongside the winding Xier River and backed by the majestic Zhema Mountain, it is a perfect spot for unwinding and rejuvenation.
How to Get There
To reach Xiaguan Hot Springs, take a bus from the Dali Passenger Transport Center (大理客运中心), which takes about 30 minutes.
Travel Tips
- Plan Ahead: Consider visiting during festivals for a unique cultural experience.
- Local Cuisine: Try local dishes like fresh fish cooked in spring water and cold chicken rice noodles for an authentic taste.
- Bring Swimwear: Don’t forget your swimwear if you plan to enjoy the hot springs.
- Respect Nature: Maintain cleanliness and respect the natural environment while visiting the springs.
