Xifeng invests in ‘hot springs’ to bolster tourism

In order to become "a city of hot springs", the Xifeng government has redoubled its efforts to develop and complete its hot springs industry.

Local hot springs in Xifeng are usually characterized by radon, a noble gas that is odorless, tasteless, colorless, and radioactive. It is believed that springs that contain radon contribute to the recovery of skin cancers, rheumatism, high-blood pressure and heart attacks.

There are 12 proven hot springs sites in the county. The government is now putting together a development plan for the hot spring industry. Enterprises involved are being given a five-year water bill exemption.

So far, 700 million yuan ($105 million) has been invested in the renovation of 26.67 hectares of space in hot spring health resorts. More than 200 outdoor or indoor spring pools have been established.

The first two months of 2021 have seen a surge of visitors. Tourism revenue reached 12 million yuan, an increase of 50 percent year-on-year. The government plans to take forward three hot spring projects that will hopefully bring a two-billion-yuan revenue to the county.

In addition, the hot spring is considered a key part of the "health maintenance" program, which has become increasingly popular over the years. The role of "radon" in killing pains and curing diseases is being explored. A total of 200 professional physical therapists, acupuncturists and tea specialists are in place to provide customers with distinctive services.