Xiaguan Hot Spring in Dali City

Xiaguan Hot Spring (下关温泉) is located in the Xier River Gorge (西洱河峡谷), 3 kilometers west of Dali City (大理市) in Yunnan Province (云南省), adjacent to the Kunji Highway (昆畿公路) (National Road 320). The spring maintains a stable temperature between 76.5–80°C and is classified as a medium-to-high temperature carbonate hot spring. It contains over ten types of minerals and rare elements, including calcium carbonate.

The spring water naturally gushes from rock crevices, with an annual discharge rate of 15.18 liters per second. It is reputed to have therapeutic effects for skin diseases and rheumatism. Historically known as Tangzipu (塘子铺), the site was once the location of the Desheng Pass (德胜关) fortress recorded in the Ming Dynasty’s Zhaozhou Chronicles (赵州志). Today, a variety of bath options are available to serve tourists.

Location

Situated in Tangzipu Hot Spring Village (塘子铺温泉村) of Xiaguan Town (下关镇), Dali City, the hot spring lies between Zhemo Mountain (者摩山) to the east and the Xier River (西洱河) to the west, at an elevation of 1,950 meters. It is about 5 kilometers from the Dali Passenger Transport Center and connects via the Kunji Highway (National Road 320) to major expressways such as the Hangrui and Huru lines. Nearby public transport stations include Jingzaizhuang and several hot spring resorts, with access to special bus lines like Taiyi and Pingpo routes.

Geological Features

The hot spring emerges along a fault zone, surfacing through Mesozoic purplish-red sandy mudstone and fine conglomerate formations. The annual variation in water temperature is only about 2°C, and the pH remains stable between 6.7 and 7.1. The measured highest temperature reaches 80°C, with a daily average discharge of 1,310 cubic meters and a mineralization level of 0.4 grams per liter.

Therapeutic Value

Chemical analysis shows the presence of minerals such as calcium bicarbonate and calcium sulfate, with calcium bicarbonate concentrations reaching 320 mg/L. Clinical observation indicates auxiliary therapeutic effects for skin conditions and rheumatic diseases. The site offers both public and private bathing pools, with designated areas for general recreation and health treatment.

Development and Use

The registered operator is classified as a water-based recreation facility service provider, offering hot spring bathing and food services. According to 2025 data, the site receives over 13,000 tourists annually, with 6,600 planned visits recorded. A range of bathhouse options is available, along with facilities such as parking lots.

Historical Background

During the Ming Dynasty, the site was known as Desheng Pass (德胜关), also referred to as Tangzipu (塘子铺), serving as a strategic western gate of Dali City. The Qing Dynasty Zhaozhou Chronicles (赵州志) also recorded the area as “Tangzipu,” named after a relay station on the post road. In 1958, geological surveys confirmed the medical value of the spring, leading to the construction of the first public bathhouses in 1972. A major renovation in 2022 expanded its annual visitor capacity to 100,000.

Tourist Information

The best time to visit is from March to April, when the average daytime temperature is around 15°C. Recommended visiting duration is 2–3 hours. Due to the high altitude, sun protection is advised. From the Dali Passenger Transport Center, visitors can take Bus Route 1 directly to the hot spring, with a travel time of about 30 minutes.

Nearby local restaurants offer traditional Dali delicacies such as clay pot fish (砂锅鱼), Rushan (乳扇) (grilled cheese made from cow’s milk), and other Bai ethnic specialties.