Xiangbishan Hot Spring Forest Park in Huaning County, Yuxi
Huaning Elephant Trunk Mountain Hot Spring Forest Park (华宁象鼻山温泉森林公园) is located 8 km southeast of Huaning County (华宁县), Yuxi City (玉溪市), Yunnan Province (云南省). The scenic area comprises Elephant Trunk Hot Spring (象鼻温泉), Golden Lock Bridge (金锁桥), Emerald Screen Mountain (翠屏山), Elephant Trunk Ridge (象鼻岭), and resort facilities. It’s 132 km from Kunming (昆明) and 40 km from Yuxi City (玉溪市).
Cultural History
The hot spring was discovered during the Eastern Han Dynasty (东汉时期), boasting nearly 2,000 years of history. Celebrated by literati throughout dynasties, Qing Dynasty poet Zhang Lingyun (张凌云) composed poems praising its beauty. Named after its location beneath Elephant Trunk Ridge (象鼻岭), the mineral-rich spring contains numerous beneficial trace elements.
Ethnic Culture
As an Yi Autonomous County (彝族自治县), Huaning offers rich Yi ethnic traditions. Visitors can experience cultural practices like the Yi Flower Drum Dance (彝族花鼓舞).
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Featuring a central subtropical climate with mild seasons, the ideal visiting period is March through November for comfortable outdoor activities.
Recommended Attractions
Elephant Trunk Hot Spring (象鼻温泉)
- Temperature: 39-40°C
- Therapeutic for skin conditions and rheumatism
- Visit duration: 2 hours
Golden Lock Bridge (金锁桥)
- Built in 1745 (Qianlong 10th year)
- Among Yunnan’s largest single-span stone arches
- Visit duration: 30 minutes
Emerald Screen Mountain (翠屏山)
- Named for its screen-like verdant slopes
- Visit duration: 30 minutes
Elephant Trunk Ridge (象鼻岭)
- Resembles a drinking elephant
- Hiking trails reveal geological formations
- Visit duration: Flexible
Transportation
Public Transport:
From Kunming South Bus Station (昆明南部汽车客运站):
- Hourly buses to Huaning (¥30-40)
- Transfer to resort shuttle
Self-Driving:
Navigate to “Huaning Elephant Trunk Mountain Hot Spring Forest Park (华宁象鼻山温泉森林公园)”
Local Cuisine
Specialties include:
- Bean Soup Rice Noodles (豆汤米线)
- Tangerine-Flavored Banquet (桔香宴)
- Pea Flour Porridge (稀豆粉)
Shopping
Find Yi ethnic handicrafts (彝族手工艺品) and embroideries (刺绣) near the park or in Huaning County.
Accommodation
Elephant Trunk Hot Spring Hotel (象鼻温泉酒店)
- Location: Jianghua Highway (江华公路), Ningzhou Street (宁州街道)
- Features: Hot spring therapy, water recreation
- Booking: 0086-15812062722
Visitor Information
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Ticket Price: Check online platforms
Notes: Preserve environment and respect local customs
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1:
- Arrive in Huaning
- Check into hot spring hotel
- Enjoy therapeutic bathing
Day 2:
- Visit Golden Lock Bridge and Emerald Screen Mountain
- Afternoon relaxation
Day 3:
- Local exploration and souvenir shopping
- Departure
This forest park captivates visitors with its therapeutic springs and cultural heritage. Whether soaking in mineral waters or exploring historical sites, you’ll discover Yunnan’s unique charm. May this guide facilitate your journey through this remarkable landscape.
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