Want a place to escape the winter cold while feeling like a shrimp being boiled alive? Here are Hunan’s best hot springs. They’re good for your health too.

1. Huitang Hot Spring 宁乡灰汤温泉

Huitang Hot Spring in Ningxiang County (宁乡县) 80km from Changsha is one of China’s three most famous hot springs. Formed about two millennia ago, the magma in the Yan and Wei mountains (燕山、沩山) heats the water up to 89.5 ℃. The water is clear and contains 29 beneficial minerals.

2. Rucheng Hot Spring 汝城温泉

Rucheng County(汝城县) in Chenzhou (郴州) provides therapeutic baths containing over 30 kinds of minerals and micronutrients, which improve blood circulation, relieving nerve tension and eliminating fatigue. The hot springs of Rucheng Village are some of the finest in Hunan owing to their high temperatures, large area, and facilities.

3. Wanfu Hot Spring 张家界万福温泉

Need a spa after a day of hiking in the mountains? Wangfu Hot Spring in Zhangjiajie has a backdrop of mountains and lush forests, is half open-air and has moderate temperatures averaging 53℃.

4. Mang Mountain Forest Hot Spring 莽山森林温泉

Mang Mountain Forest Hot Spring in Mang Mountain National Forest Park (莽山国家森林公园), Chenzhou (郴州), has more than 60 soaking pools. Heated 600m within the earth, these crystal-clear waters are famous for their mineral content and legendary healing powers.