There’s something deeply satisfying about finding a destination that feels a world away, yet takes almost no effort to reach. New World Qingyuan delivers exactly that. Getting there is surprisingly easy: one direct train from Hong Kong, followed by a 45-minute Didi from the station, and you’re suddenly surrounded by the hills and farmland of northern Guangdong. Better still, this region is known for its natural hot springs, meaning you can skip the flight to Japan or Taipei and still get your onsen-style fix much closer to home.
Set within the Qingxin Natural Hot Springs district (often dubbed Guangzhou’s “back garden”), the resort feels intentionally removed from urban life. Surrounded by farmland, greenery and mountain views, it’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down almost immediately. This isn’t a quick overnight trip. Give it at least two nights – there’s more here than you might expect.
Rooms
With over 200 rooms and suites, New World Qingyuan offers plenty of space while still feeling relaxed and easy to settle into. Rooms are generously sized, with a design that leans towards contemporary Japanese-inspired minimalism, softened by warm textures and an abundance of natural light.
I checked into a sprawling 110sqm Hot Spring Suite, complete with a separate living room, a spacious dressing area, and a bathroom anchored by a deep soaking tub. The real highlight, though, is the balcony setup: many rooms come with an outdoor onsen-style soaking tub, turning your own private space into a mini spa moment.
Dining
Food here feels firmly rooted in its surroundings – and that’s very much the point. Qingyuan is known for its high-quality chicken and eggs, and the resort leans fully into that reputation, showcasing ingredients that are not just local, but often sourced directly from nearby farms.
XIAN is their farm-to-table all-day dining restaurant which celebrates authentic regional flavours. Breakfast is a particular highlight, with an impressive buffet spread featuring freshly made congee and dim sum, local noodle specialities, farm-fresh vegetable dishes, and made-to-order eggs paired with a selection of artisanal breads and pastries.
For something more refined, LU TING offers an elevated take on regional cuisine, with private dining rooms suited to group gatherings. Meanwhile, The Commons and Poolside Bar acts as a relaxed social hub for everything from casual meals to drinks.
Wellness
Whether you choose to fully switch off or stay active, everything here is designed to restore a sense of balance.
The hot springs are the main draw. Fed by natural spring water drawn deep from the earth, the mineral-rich pools are known for their restorative benefits. The layout follows a traditional Japanese onsen style, with indoor and open-air pools tucked into the landscape, allowing you to soak while surrounded by greenery and fresh air.
If you’re after some pampering, the spa offers restorative hydrotherapy, facials, and massage treatments. Pro tip – don’t skip the hair wash. I’d been wanting to try this for the longest time, and happily sank into a massage chair while a therapist worked through a deeply relaxing scalp treatment and conditioning ritual, finishing with a blow dry. It’s simple, but quietly indulgent and I left with hair that feels noticeably softer.
For those looking to recharge rather than unwind, there’s also a well-equipped fitness centre and an outdoor pool.
Family Fun
For families, New World Qingyuan makes things exceptionally easy. The kids’ programme features three themed zones focused on adventure, arts and personal development, while The Den offers everything from karaoke and movie rooms to billiards, archery, mini golf and even a beach volleyball court.
What I loved
With its combination of hot springs, nature, thoughtful dining, friendly staff and genuinely engaging activities for young and old, it offers far more than a typical weekend escape.
For Hong Kong travellers, this is where the appeal really lands. It delivers a genuine reset without the friction of long-haul travel or heavy planning. You arrive quickly, settle in easily and leave feeling like you’ve actually had a break.
THE LOOP HONG KONG was a guest of New World Qingyuan.