Chunhuiyuan Hot Spring Resort

Courtyard in Chunhuiyuan

Chunhuiyuan doesn't offer the typical natural-style hot spring bathe that I initially had in mind, with natural surroundings and minimal human involvement, but is rather a hotel-like spa with the hot spring water piped into huge bathtubs in your hotel room. For those that like to keep things private, like myself, it's a good candidate for a comfortable and relaxing weekend or holiday getaway, about 20 minutes drive from Beijing.

The rooms are elegant, decorated in several different styles. Some are in Japanese fashion with Tatami beds and neat back yards, with others more akin to the classic three or four star hotel rooms. My boyfriend and I picked a studio loft, great for a couple, with two TVs, DVD player, computer, and of course, that big bathtub inside the living room. The hot spring bath was definitely soothing, although the hot temperate of the water can make you feel a bit airless inside the room. The water is greenish, powerful and very hot. You can also choose to put some medicinal herbs or bath salt provided by the resort.

Opening time: 9:30 am to 12 pm

Prices: 168 yuan per person (hot spring, swim, buffet dinner, sauna) from Monday to Friday

268 yuan per person in the weekend and public holidays

Directions: take No 942 bus at Dongzhimen and get off at Yuzhuang Station

Telephone: 6945-4433