Getting into hot water: Hailougou, Sichuan

Hailuogou, Sichuan

Minya Konka Hot Spring lies in the scenic Hailuogou area. Jing Aiping / For China Daily

Hailuogou scenic area in Sichuan province boasts many natural springs, with water temperatures ranging from boiling hot to icy cold. The water is of excellent quality here, and tourist can drink from springs, free from pollution and impurities, generously scattered along the main entrance road and the other accessible paths in the park.

But to soak in the springs, you may want to head for the Minya Konka Hot Spring, which has a big swimming pool and several smaller hot-spring pools. Minya Konka is only 7 km from the park entrance.

Another excellent hot spring is near the park's Campsite No 1, halfway between the Minya Konka Hot Spring and Campsite No 2.

Hosts of monkeys are often seen along the main drive in the park, and you can enjoy a dramatic change of scenery as the road climbs, especially when you go in winter.

The hot spring at Campsite No 2, where the renowned Heavenly Pool is located, is the most famous in Hailuogou. Here, there are many wooden cabins, restaurants and bars, all of which seem to blend into the surrounding scenery. Nearly every cabin has its own little hot spring pool.

If you prefer company, there is a series of hot springs as well as a swimming pool just next to the accommodation cluster. It's worth a visit even in the chill of winter.

Spring water here is rich in calcium, and a favorite pastime among visitors is to try to cook soft-boiled eggs here.

Monkeys also provide free entertainment, gathering around the cabins in the hope of food and play. In fact, they have become an attraction in themselves.