The First Hot Spring Under Heaven: A Millennial Retreat of Healing and Culture in Anning

The First Hot Spring Under Heaven

Located approximately 40 kilometers southwest of Kunming, the Anning Hot Spring is a legendary geothermal retreat nestled in a lush valley. Renowned throughout history, it was bestowed the title "The First Hot Spring Under Heaven" (Tianxia Diyi Tang) by the famous Ming Dynasty scholar Yang Sheng'an. Unlike many sulfuric hot springs that carry a strong odor, the waters here are celebrated for being crystal clear, odorless, and tasteless—so pure that they were historically considered drinkable. With an altitude of 1,800 meters, the area enjoys a mild climate, making it a perfect sanctuary to escape the city noise and immerse oneself in the mist-covered mountains and forests,.

A Legacy of Millenniums

1.The history of Anning Hot: Spring dates back to the Eastern Han Dynasty, making it one of the oldest known thermal springs in China. Over the centuries, it became a favored destination for literati, officials, and poets from the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, who left behind a rich legacy of culture. The site is not just a place for physical relaxation but a cultural landmark where history is carved into the very cliffs. The Yunyan (Cloud Cliff) Inscriptions surrounding the spring preserve the calligraphy and poetry of these historical figures, creating a unique atmosphere where nature and humanities intertwine. Walking through the pavilions and ancient paths, visitors can feel the echoes of a prosperous past,.

The Healing Waters

2.The spring water at: Anning is naturally heated deep underground and emerges at a perfect therapeutic temperature of 42°C to 45°C. It is rich in beneficial minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and sodium, which are known to help alleviate rheumatism, skin diseases, and nervous system fatigue. The experience of bathing here is described as slipping into "liquid jade"—smooth, gentle, and revitalizing. In the past, the locals and visitors would perform a ritual of flicking wine into the air to honor the heavens before drinking the spring water, a testament to its revered status. Today, visitors can enjoy these healing waters in various settings, from traditional stone pools to modern forest spas hidden among the trees,,.

Caoxi Temple and Forest Serenity

Adjacent to the hot springs lies the dense forest of Mantang Mountain and the historic Caoxi Temple (Caoxi Si), often referred to as the "Pearl of Buddhism." The temple is famous for its ancient architecture and the "Pearl in the Mouth of the Buddha" phenomenon (a specific astronomical alignment). The combination of the thermal springs, the lush "Green Cliff" (Biyu) vegetation, and the solemn temple bells creates a tranquil environment for spiritual and physical rejuvenation. Whether soaking in a pool surrounded by pine trees or hiking up to read the cliff inscriptions, Anning offers a comprehensive wellness experience that blends the energy of the earth with the peace of the mountains,.