温泉 (wēn quán) literally means 'warm spring' — combining 温 (wēn), meaning 'warm' or 'mild', and 泉 (quán), meaning 'spring' or 'natural water source'. It refers specifically to naturally occurring geothermally heated groundwater that emerges from the earth, often rich in minerals like sulfur, calcium, or magnesium. Unlike ordinary springs, hot springs are valued worldwide for their therapeutic properties and relaxing effects on muscles and skin.

In China, 温泉 is commonly associated with wellness tourism, traditional Chinese medicine practices, and leisure activities. Many regions — such as Beijing’s Xiaotangshan, Guangdong’s Conghua, and Yunnan’s Tengchong — are famous for their natural hot spring resorts. People visit 温泉 not only for recreation but also for health maintenance, stress relief, and seasonal relaxation, especially during colder months.