Xiashankou Hot Springs Village in Eryuan County, Dali
Introduction
Nestled in Yunnan Province’s Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Xiashankou Hot Spring (下山口温泉) is a magical area known for Putuo Spring (普陀泉). Legend has it that this spring is a remnant of Guanyin Bodhisattva’s (观音菩萨) jade bottle, with crystal-clear water resembling jade and an ethereal quality. The unique geographical setting makes the Putuo Spring Hot Spring Resort feel like a paradise.
The Xiashankou Hot Spring Resort fully utilizes the geothermal resources of the mountain pass and the picturesque Miqiao River (弥苴河). It features large and medium-sized hot spring swimming pools and rafting activities. The resort combines accommodation, dining, fishing, and cultural performances, making it a major tourist hotspot in Dali.
Location
Xiashankou Hot Spring is situated at the confluence of three rivers—Miqiao River, Fengyu River, and Haiwei River—serving as a crucial passage between Eryuan and Dengchuan. The western mountain belongs to Tianma Mountain (天马山), while the eastern one is the Lingying Mountain (灵应山) range. The gorge between these two mountains is known as Putuo Kong (普陀崆), also referred to as Longma Canyon (龙马涧).
Attractions
- Putuo Spring (普陀泉): Located in Xiashankou Village, known for its Japanese-style forest hot springs. The water is naturally weak alkaline, continuously gushing from geothermal sources filtered through the Cangshan Mountains (苍山).
- Flame Mountain Hot Spring (火焰山温泉): Adjacent to the mysterious Haixi Sea (海西海) and the beautiful Laojun Mountain (老君山), this hot spring features an outdoor bathing area over 400 square meters, rich in beneficial minerals like potassium, sulfur, magnesium, and iron.
Travel Information
Address
Yunnan Province, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Eryuan County (云南省大理白族自治州洱源县)
How to Get There
- By Road: It is located 0.5 km from the village committee and 5 km from the town. The area is accessible via local transportation from major cities in Yunnan.
- Nearby Cities: The resort is within reasonable distance from Dali Ancient Town (大理古城), making it a perfect day trip or weekend getaway.
Best Season to Visit
The optimal time to enjoy the hot springs is from August to December, as the rainy season in Eryuan is concentrated between May and October. Visitors are advised to carry rain gear during this period.
Travel Tips
- Packing Suggestions: Light clothing is recommended for summer, and don’t forget sun protection like hats and sunglasses. During the rainy season, an umbrella or raincoat is advisable.
- Dining: Local delicacies include sour and spicy fish, Dali raw skin (大理生皮), seaweed flowers, papaya chicken, and various traditional Bai dishes.
- Duration of Visit: Plan for about 3 hours to fully enjoy the hot springs and surrounding attractions.
Accommodation
The resort offers various accommodations, including charming VIP wooden cottages. Visitors can experience the serene ambiance while enjoying hot springs, delicious local cuisine, and the beautiful natural scenery of the area.
Notable Legends
It is said that the local residents, who have long consumed the spring water, enjoy excellent health, with no reported cases of cardiovascular diseases or hypertension. The area has a significant number of centenarians, attributed to the beneficial properties of the spring water.
The famed traveler Xu Xiake (徐霞客) once noted about Putuo Spring: “The locals say there is a hot water cave in Putuo Kong… Water surges from the cave bottom as if boiling. Entering the cave, one is enveloped by hot steam, causing perspiration. Those with ailments find relief.”
