Project Background
Located in the Rehe valley north of Chengde, this project is nestled within a pristine forest environment. The area was shaped by a massive ancient volcanic eruption, resulting in abundant natural hot springs with exceptional quality.
While hot springs have long served local communities, this project aims to offer urban dwellers a tranquil retreat—combining hot springs with lush plant life to create a unique healing experience unlike any other in the region. After exploring the entire valley and ascending for views, we selected a serene spot at a valley bend, surrounded by mountains and facing water, embodying natural peace.
▲ General layout plan
Design Philosophy
During our exploration of the valley, we observed a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, with some areas brightly illuminated and others suddenly shaded. The mountainside temperature fluctuated, accompanied by the crisp sounds of flowing water and birdsong, creating a rich natural atmosphere. Our design embraces this experience of freely wandering in a natural forest, embodying the concept of a “Forest Valley.”
The design weaves together two key functional spaces—hot springs and plant areas—using a combination of towering vertical stone towers and horizontal transparent glass boxes. This interplay mimics the form of mountain ranges, generating varied spatial experiences reminiscent of a valley’s natural contours.
Spatial Features
The complex consists of eight towers, each varying in height and orientation. On the ground floor, two soaking pools are housed within the towers, while upper floors contain service areas. The second floor features eight towers with two spas, five soaking pools, and one relaxation lounge.
Surrounding the towers, large open plant landscapes enclosed in glass boxes create a seamless connection to nature. The eight towers are linked by a park walkway on the ground floor and an aerial corridor on the second floor, forming a continuous loop without dead ends.
Visitors can choose from multiple routes, evoking the feeling of strolling through a forest. Along these paths, small functional spaces such as coffee shops, resting areas, makeup rooms, and retail outlets enrich the overall experience.
▲ First floor plan
▲ Second floor plan
Inside the towers, guests can soak in hot springs while enjoying views of thick white snow or lush green foliage through expansive scenic windows. Skylights offer glimpses of planes crossing the sky or twinkling stars above. Stepping outside onto the corridors, visitors can stroll among the treetops, creating a serene jungle walk experience.
Material Details
To capture the elemental power of nature, volcanic rock was chosen for the towers’ exterior walls, symbolizing the volcanic origins of both the rocks and the hot springs. These rocks are layered to resemble mountain vegetation and leaves, creating peaks and valleys. This solid volcanic stone contrasts strikingly with the horizontal glass boxes, which provide a transparent and light counterpart.
Indoors, bamboo, wood, and stone are the primary materials, enhanced by carefully designed lighting and the tower’s vertical depth across four distinct layouts. This combination creates a profound and ceremonial bathing atmosphere.
Spirit of Place
In our fast-paced urban society, hot springs and similar facilities become increasingly vital. When visitors disrobe and shed the complexities of the outside world, they strip away their external identities and return to a primal state. This environment fosters genuine, honest interactions both between people and with nature itself. Moriya Onsen Center offers modern city dwellers a sanctuary to reconnect with the natural world and each other.
▲ Concept sketch
▲ Sectional view
Project Information
Project Type: Spa Facilities
Location: Chengde City, China
Architect: B.L.U.E. Architectural Design Firm
Area: 1560 m²
Year: 2019
Photographer: Summer Solstice
Design Team: Qingshan Zhouping, Fujii Yangzi, Yang Huiyong, Li Jiaxi, Chen Baiyi, Gu Lingxi, Wu Huiyi
Architectural Construction Drawing Design: China National Building Standards Design and Research Institute Co., Ltd.
Curtain Wall Construction Drawing Design: Zhongbiao Construction Group Co., Ltd.
Interior Design: B.L.U.E. Architectural Design Firm
Interior Landscape Design: Gao Guqi, Yang Hao
Client: Shide Dadi Happiness Group
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