When I visited Tangquanchi winter resort in Henan province in mid-December 2015, temperature stayed within the range of 4C° to 12C°. It was not exactly warm, then again, most part of Henan had already saw the first snow by then.
To get to the resort took some efforts. Tangquanchi is about three hours’ bus ride from Xinyang city. First, I caught the bus service in central Xinyang for a non-stop ride to Huangchuan town. After getting off at the foot of Dabie Mountain, I hired a private car for RMB100 (AUD20.85) and took another 30-minute ride up the mountain.
There is also a mini bus service to the resort, but the private car is much more convenient. The driver, who was most likely a local resident, also acted as my private tour guide and introduced me to the place.
I got there nearly 4 hours later, but it was all worth the effort.
Fresh air, light breezes and a tranquil view greeted me the moment I stepped out of the car. A huge lake came into view immediately. The lake is in fact a reservoir that provides fresh water to many nearby towns. Surrounded by mountains and filled with small islets, the lake provides a picturesque view.
Willow trees lined up the walkways built around the lake, making it a quiet and peaceful escape. The vast water expanse also offers boating to those who want to see the area in a different light.
There are small cafes and traditional tea houses at the resort, where tourists can enjoy a cup of Maojian tea and have a chat with other visitors or local residents.
The whole place has a rustic feel and is filled with a pleasant atmosphere. The friendly locals live almost entirely on tourism, renting out accommodation, selling groceries or running their own restaurants.
I didn’t go for a boat ride, but took my time to go around and enjoyed the views of the lovely place.
More than just a winter resort, Tangquanchi presents different views as the seasons change, making it a favorite spot for couples taking pre-wedding photos.
Dabie Mountain that surrounds the lake is a tourism hot spot in itself. In spring and summer, it is covered with azaleas and lush greenery. And in autumn, osmanthus blossom and send out a rich sweet scent.
During the Chinese New Year, which is also when China sees the coldest days, Tangquanchi is especially popular. Believing that it is best to start the new year clean, many head for the hot springs here.
With a water temperature of 56C°-58C°, the hot springs not only beat the chills, but are also curative. Tangquanchi’s hot springs contain strontium, calcium, potassium and a dozen other natural minerals, and are reputed for its natural therapeutic effects on skin infections, rheumatism as well as respiratory ailments.
Hotels are equipped with hot spring facilities and rates range from RMB150 to RMB800 (AUD31 to AUD167). The biggest one – Mingyang Tangquanchi Hotel – offers both standard hotel rooms and luxury villas that overlook the lake.
Rates for the villas are steep, starting at RMB2,700 (AUD563) per night. However, guests get the privilege of their own hot spring pool and balconies with a panoramic view of the lake.
The Tip Box 