Tourism GuideHuaqing Palace
A legendary imperial hot spring resort with 3000 years of history where emperors and concubines bathed in natural thermal waters
Key Information
Historical Period
Zhou Dynasty to Tang Dynasty 1046 BC to 907 AD
UNESCO Status
Part of the Silk Roads the Routes Network of Chang'an-Tianshan Corridor World Heritage Site
Hot Spring Temperature
43°C 109°F
Best Time to Visit
Spring and Autumn March to May September to November
Famous Residents
Emperor Xuanzong of Tang Yang Guifei Chiang Kaishek
Huaqing Palace also known as Huaqing Pool is a historic site located at the northern foot of Mount Li in Lintong District Xi'an Shaanxi Province This ancient imperial hot spring resort has a history dating back over 3000 years to the Western Zhou Dynasty The site is most famous for its association with Emperor Xuanzong of the Tang Dynasty and his beloved concubine Yang Guifei whose legendary love story unfolded here The palace complex features natural hot springs that have been used for therapeutic bathing since ancient times with water temperatures around 43°C The architecture combines traditional Chinese palace design with beautiful gardens pavilions and pools The site also holds significance as the location of the Xi'an Incident in 1936 when Chiang Kaishek was detained leading to the formation of the Second United Front against Japanese invasion
Things to Do
- Explore the Nine Dragon Lake and Lotus Flower Pool where Emperor Xuanzong and Yang Guifei bathed
- Visit the Five Rooms Hall where Chiang Kaishek was captured during the Xi'an Incident
- Walk through the beautiful Tang Dynasty style gardens and pavilions
- Experience the natural hot springs at the modern spa facilities
- Watch the spectacular Tang Dynasty Song and Dance Show in the evening
- Visit the Yang Guifei Bathing Pool Museum to learn about the imperial bathing culture
- Climb to the Flying Rainbow Bridge for panoramic views of the palace complex
- Explore the ancient stone inscriptions and calligraphy throughout the site
