Location & How to Get There

Nan Hot Spring Scenic Resort is tucked in the southern part of Chongqing, specifically at No. 6 Nanquan Road, Banan District. To reach this relaxing oasis, hop on Metro Line 3 and get off at Nanquan Station—it’s just a short walk (or taxi ride) from there. If you’re driving, punch “Nanquan Road, Banan” into your GPS, and you’ll find plenty of parking spots near the entrance.

Natural Wonders: Hot Springs & Scenery

The heart of Nan Hot Spring Scenic Resort is its sulfur-rich hot springs, which bubble up from Jianyu Mountain. These springs have been drawing crowds since the 1860s, when bathhouses were first built here. Today, you can soak in retro pools or modern swimming lanes, all fed by the same warm, mineral-packed waters.

Beyond the main springs, the resort hides five other famous springs:

  • Jade Spring (Yuquan): Crystal-clear water perfect for a quick dip.
  • Sunny-Rainy Spring (Qingyuquan): A quirky spot where water flows even when it hasn’t rained!
  • Dragon Spring (Longquan): Legend says it’s named after a dragon rumored to live nearby.
  • Flying Spring (Feiquan): Water arcs gracefully from rock cliffs.
  • Tiger’s Roar Spring (Huxiaoquan): Guess why they named it—the sound of rushing water!

The area is also divided into four mini-adventures:

  • Grand Spring Area: Where the historic bathhouses are.
  • Stone Plow Garden (Huayuan): A bamboo-filled valley with tiny waterfalls.
  • Fairy Cave Area: Explore limestone caves with drippy stalactites.
  • Bamboo-Stone Garden: Exactly what it sounds like—a peaceful mix of green bamboo and rocky paths.

Cultural Treasures: History Meets Nature

This place isn’t just about nature. Wander into the “Co-Capital” Ruins, a nod to Chongqing’s role as China’s wartime capital during the 1940s. You’ll spot old buildings and plaques telling stories of that era.

Another must-see: the Jianwen Site, linked to the Ming Dynasty’s Emperor Jianwen. Locals say he hid here after a palace coup, and you can visit a simple temple dedicated to his memory. It’s a quiet spot to ponder history while listening to birdsong.

Practical Stuff: Food, Rest, & More

After exploring, grab snacks at the resort’s cafes and tea houses, or try hot spring-cooked eggs (a local specialty!). There are basic restaurants serving Sichuan dishes if you’re hungry. For overnight stays, nearby hotels offer hot spring tubs in rooms—perfect for a cozy retreat.

The resort is super family-friendly: kids love splashing in the warm pools, while couples appreciate the romantic bamboo groves. Just wear swimwear under your clothes—you’ll want to jump in those springs ASAP!

My Trip Tips: A Day Well Spent

Morning: Arrive early to beat crowds. Start with a soak in the main hot springs.
Afternoon: Hike through Stone Plow Garden, snap photos at Fairy Cave, and peek at the Jianwen Site.
Evening: Unwind in the bamboo forest or treat yourself to a sunset dip.

Tickets cost around 50-100 RMB (super affordable!), and the resort stays open till late. Pro tip: Weekdays are less crowded, so plan accordingly.

Nan Hot Spring Scenic Resort is like a secret Chongqing hideaway—equal parts natural spa, history lesson, and forest escape. Perfect for travelers who want to unwind without skipping the “wow” moments!