Abstract
Purpose: The Asan Hot Springs are adjacent to the Seoul Metropolitan area and have excellent traffic access. However, a steady decline in tourist numbers followed the decline in the urban population. This study aims to provide participants with a hot springs visit as part of their independent tourism experience and then analyze their feedback to obtain meaningful suggestions to enhance local tourism. Methods: We recruited 12 families interested in taking a two-day, one-night tour, including a visit to the Asan Hot Springs. Participating families were grouped into two cohorts (Type C and Type A) depending on whether they included children aged one to ten. Each family answered a survey regarding their overall satisfaction with the Asan Hot Springs and provided targeted feedback regarding hot spring resorts, accommodations, restaurants, adjacent tourist spots, and tourism costs. Results: Most of the families that participated in the study were residents of Seoul, Incheon, or Kyunggi (74.47%); the majority were two-generation families (75%) with children (75%). The Type C group enjoyed the campsite (55.56%) accommodations at the Asan Hot Springs more than their Type A counterparts. Families visited an average of 3.6 places during their stay, and 61.11% of participating families visited entertainment and tourist attractions, including the Type C visit to the thermal bath. Compared with Type A, Type C families spent more on tourism and were more satisfied with the entertainment and tourist attractions experience. Overall, all study participants were satisfied with the thermal sources. Conclusion: Our results indicate that families with children have a higher added value than visitor groups consisting only of adults. Considering the significant impact on the local economy, the Asan Hot Springs and associated tourist attractions and services should be developed with these visitors in mind.