Yashadi Hot Spring in Gejiu City, Honghe
Overview
Ya Sha Di Waterfall Hot Springs (丫沙底瀑布温泉) is the only radon-rich hot spring in Yunnan Province (云南省). It is located in the valley of the Jasha River (贾沙河) in Jiajin Township (贾沙乡), Gejiu City (个旧市), Yunnan. Ya Sha Di is a natural village, historically inhabited by the Nisu ethnic group (尼苏人) of the Yi people (彝族), who primarily rely on corn (包谷) cultivation for their livelihood. The name “Ya Sha Di” in Yi language means “a flat land with trees on the mountains.” The hot spring is built on a sloped hillside, surrounded by fresh air and the convergence of the Jasha River and Longquan River (龙泉河), which flows into the Red River (红河).
History
Long ago, this area was undeveloped, but local residents were aware of the hot springs and often visited the thermal water outlets for bathing, both for privacy and warmth. When women bathed in the caves, sunlight filtered through gaps, illuminating the white mist and creating a colorful haze. In this colorful setting, the women appeared ethereal, resembling celestial beings, and this scene became known as “fairies bathing,” a local attraction.
Scenic Background
Ya Sha Di Waterfall Hot Springs is nestled in a valley adorned with blooming flowers. From the viewing platform, one can see the entire layout of the hot springs—waterfalls, fish ponds, small bridges, a goldfish-shaped swimming pool, flowing rivers, various soaking pools, and people joyfully enjoying the hot springs, all showcasing the harmonious beauty of nature and humanity. This harmony reflects the construction philosophy of Ya Sha Di Waterfall Hot Springs, which emphasizes minimal disruption to trees and valuable rocks, ensuring that the area remains natural, beautiful, and above nature.
The hot springs are designed to follow the natural terrain, exhibiting a rustic charm. A small river flows through the area year-round, with its source originating from a rocky area. To make good use of this river, the management constructed a 6-meter high dam at its source to raise the water level, creating a 6-meter high and 10-meter wide waterfall, from which the hot springs derive their name. Additionally, the originally narrow river was widened, and inspiration was taken from terraced fields to create ponds, increasing the still water area to over 3,000 square meters and effectively regulating the temperature in the area.
The soaking pools were originally overgrown with weeds and rocks, and during the construction of the swimming pool, finding a flat area proved difficult. Therefore, the designers creatively shaped a swimming pool resembling a goldfish over 20 meters long, leaving an immovable boulder inside. Tourists have praised this unique design. Smaller pools like “Six Blessings Pool,” “Medicine Pool,” “Rose Pool,” “Wine Pool,” “Aloe Pool,” and “Tea Pool” were also constructed in harmony with the river, all designed in irregular shapes. Visitors can soak in the hot springs while enjoying the sound of flowing water, the beauty of flowers, blue skies, and the chirping of birds, creating a perfect blend with nature.
Therapeutic Effects
Ya Sha Di Waterfall Hot Springs is situated on a slope of the Kele Mountains (克勒大山), with water temperatures reaching up to 93 degrees Celsius. It is a typical therapeutic hot mineral spring, rich in various beneficial minerals essential for the human body, such as metasilicic acid, fluorine, sulfur, hydrogen, boric acid, iron, iodine, and zinc. It contains radon gas, an inert gas known for its therapeutic properties. The spring is believed to promote blood circulation, stimulate the body, and have a strong health-preserving effect on the cardiovascular system. It is also effective for muscle spasms, neuralgia, rheumatism, skin diseases, and gastrointestinal issues, while enhancing physical condition, immunity, and disease prevention. As such, Ya Sha Di hot springs are often referred to as the “Divine Spring of Heaven.”
Current Situation
In 2002, after the road from Gejiu to Yuanyang was opened, the road connecting Gejiu to Ya Sha Di Waterfall Hot Springs was constructed, linking the hot spring source to the scenic area and establishing electricity supply. Local private enterprises were invited to assess the natural conditions, mineral content, and flow rate of the hot springs, as well as the government’s development plans. Recognizing the beauty of the area, which is characterized by ancient trees, flowing waters, fresh air, and abundant wildlife away from urban noise, the Ya Sha Di Waterfall Hot Springs Company began construction in 2003. By the Spring Festival of 2004, the hot springs were open to visitors, receiving over 1,000 tourists daily and generating more than 20,000 yuan in daily ticket revenue.
Since its opening in 2004, Ya Sha Di Waterfall Hot Springs has continually innovated under a people-oriented philosophy, introducing family-friendly soaking pools, pressure massage, geothermal stone therapy, a musical fountain square, and night lighting. The scenic area also fosters a variety of animals like peacocks, geese, golden pheasants, pearl chickens, koi, and cats to enhance visitors’ experiences and raise ecological awareness.
To ensure the quality of the hot spring water, the scenic area changes the water in swimming pools daily and aims for two or three changes on holidays. Other small soaking pools operate with flowing water, and water quality reports are displayed for visitors daily. Safety warning signs are set up in different areas, and lifeguards patrol continuously. Visitors will find no litter in the area, as staff regularly maintain cleanliness.
How to Get There
To reach Ya Sha Di Waterfall Hot Springs, you can take a bus or drive from Gejiu City (个旧市). The hot springs are approximately a 30-minute drive away, with clear signage directing you to the scenic area.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: The springs are enjoyable year-round, but visiting during the spring or autumn can provide a more pleasant climate.
- What to Bring: Don’t forget to bring swimwear, towels, and comfortable shoes for walking.
- Facilities: Ensure you check for available amenities such as changing rooms and dining options.
- Respect Nature: Follow the guidelines provided by the management to preserve the natural beauty of the hot springs.
- Safety: Always pay attention to safety warnings and follow lifeguard instructions while enjoying the hot springs.
