Huashuiwan Hot Spring

Huashuiwan (Flower Water Bay) is Chengdu's weekend escape: a valley of hot-spring resorts in the foothills of Dayi county, an hour's drive from the city center. In winter the outdoor pools steam against snow-dusted mountains; in summer the same terraces are shaded and green.

The valley is dotted with hotels and private bath villas, so you can make it a day trip or a weekend. English menus at the reception desks, a proper changing routine, and some of the best hot-spring water in Sichuan make this the easiest soak-and-hike combination around Chengdu.