My personal guide to Liyang, the hot spring capital of the Jiangzhehu region.

For those of you in the Jiangzhehu region looking for the perfect hot spring destination, Liyang is definitely the place to be! As a seasoned traveler who has visited Liyang twice, I've put together this super detailed guide to help you unlock the ultimate Tianmu Lake Yushui Hot Spring experience. 1. Choosing a Hotel I highly recommend the Yushui Hot Spring Resort! It's in a fantastic location, right near the hot springs. Staying here gives you access to a wide variety of buffet breakfast options that will leave those who have trouble making decisions overwhelmed. You'll also get a free Meihu Water Park ticket. Although you have to buy hot spring tickets separately, it's totally worth it. The hotel has an elegant atmosphere, and the rooms are cozy and comfortable. You'll be able to get a good night's sleep after a long day of fun. 2. Hot Spring Guide If you want to make the most of your time at Yushui Hot Spring, timing is key! The official entry time is 1pm. Start by warming up in the regular pools to get used to the water temperature. Then, head straight to the bamboo tip hot springs at the top of the mountain. I was especially lucky on my second visit. When I got there, the cleaning lady was still tidying up. Although it was scheduled to open at 2pm, she was very welcoming and let us in early to take photos and enjoy the hot springs. We had the whole place to ourselves for a good 20 minutes! But it soon got crowded, so if you want to take beautiful photos, follow my advice and head to the highest point first, then slowly make your way down. The massage pool will help you relax your muscles, the red wine pool will give you a tipsy feeling, and the lavender pool is filled with a romantic floral fragrance. You'll feel refreshed after soaking in them. 3. What to Eat If it's your first time in Liyang, you can't miss the classic local dishes. The fish head soup is so delicious, you'll want to savor every last drop. The milky white soup is rich and flavorful. The braised bamboo shoots are crisp and refreshing, bursting with the flavors of spring. The black rice is soft, sticky, and sweet. One bite is all it takes to feel completely satisfied. A set meal for two usually costs less than CNY 150, which is a great value. If you want to try something different like I did this time, the hotel buffet is an excellent choice. There's a wide variety of food to choose from, and there's sure to be something that will tantalize your taste buds. 4. What to Do Nearby Besides the hot springs, Liyang has many other attractions. I highly recommend the Nanshan Bamboo Sea. It's a natural oxygen bar. Strolling through it, you'll be refreshed by the crisp air and feel completely relaxed. The unique bird park is filled with singing, lively birds, making it the perfect place to bring children. If you climb to the top of the mountain, you can also see adorable giant pandas slowly eating bamboo. They're incredibly cute. You can also set off fireworks outside the hotel in the evening, which will create a fantastic atmosphere. The whole trip is all about fewer crowds, comfort, and a slow pace, making it perfect for a weekend getaway to unwind. Liyang is truly a hidden gem. Whether it's the hot springs, the food, or the surrounding attractions, it's sure to give you an unforgettable experience. Follow my guide, and I guarantee you'll feel the same way I do: You won't want to leave, and you'll want to come back again and again! So gather your family and friends and head to Liyang for a relaxing vacation.