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Tanghe tourism's hot spring in its step

The hot springs of Tanghe have been soothing aching muscle and bones in remote Lushi county, Sanmenxia since early in the Qing Dynasty (AD 1644-1911).

Referred to by locals as the "God-given holy water", the springs are rich in minerals such as calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and microelements. The water's PH level is a high 9.5. Twenty tons of water flow through two major active vents per hour, maintaining an average water temperature of 49.5 C.

First documented in The History of Lushi County during Qing Dynasty, the hot spring was originally accessible for all of the neighboring residents.

Besides its mineral rich waters, in the 1940s Tanghe hot springs was the first to welcome open-air bathing at a time when Chinese society was still very conservative, bringing it widespread fame.

Outdoor bathing became a routine for Tanghe locals, with ladies able to soak on even-numbered days, and men on odd-numbered days – a bit like the odd/even traffic systems implemented in some cities today, except a whole lot cleaner.

Intrigued by the unique bathing culture and healthy waters, visitors flocked to Tanghe to dip their toes.

Today, Tanghe hot springs is still a popular tourist destination and has been fully-upgraded to suit the needs of modern bathers.

Many locals have established homestay hotels which are able to accommodate up to 500 people every day.

The well-preserved natural environment neighboring Tanghe hot springs. [Photo/smx.cn]