Fuling Mausoleum (福陵), located in the eastern suburbs of Shenyang, is the tomb of Nurhaci, the founding emperor of the Qing Dynasty, and his consort, Empress Xiaoci, of the Yehe Nara clan. It is also known as Shenyang East Tomb and is one of the “Three Tombs of Shengjing,” covering an area of approximately 194,800 square meters.
Originally constructed, the mausoleum was referred to as “Xiankhan Ling” or “Taizu Ling.” Besides Nurhaci, it also houses the remains of several of his concubines from the Yehe Nara and Ulanara clans. In 1629, the mausoleum was expanded to include the remains of Nurhaci’s mother, who was relocated from the Niyam Mountain in Dongjing (present-day Liaoyang). The name “Fuling” was officially adopted in 1636.
The mausoleum was largely completed in 1651 when the remains of Empress Xiaoci were moved here to be interred alongside Nurhaci, and the surrounding landscape was modified to enhance the site. The area underwent further renovations during the reigns of Emperor Kangxi (1662-1722) and Emperor Qianlong (1736-1795), adding to its historical significance and architectural grandeur.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Fuling Mausoleum
- Vlog about Fuling Mausoleum
- Other Attractions in Shenyang Eastern Suburbs
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 – 2 hours |
| Ticket Price | 20 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 8.00 – 17.00 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-024-88031478 |
Location and Transportation
Fuling Mausoleum is located on Tianzhu Mountain, approximately 10 kilometers east of Shenyang City, in the Dongling Park of Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China. To get there, you can take bus 148, 168, 218, 385, V128, or Sightseeing Line 1, and get off at Dongling Park Stop (东陵公园站).
Highlights of Fuling Mausoleum
Archway and Sacred Path
The Archway and Sacred Path are notable components of the mausoleum. The archway is a four-column, three-bay, three-story structure measuring 9.13 meters in length and 2.65 meters in width. Its square columns are adorned with exposed stone brackets, and at the base of each column, there are drum stones for added stability. The top of the columns features a circular lotus seat, with layers of lotus petals below it, upon which a stone guardian figure, known as a “shihung,” is perched. Along the Sacred Path, visitors will find pairs of stone beasts, including seated lions, standing horses, reclining camels, and sitting tigers. At the end of the Sacred Path, a series of 108 brick steps have been constructed, symbolizing the thirty-six heavenly spirits and seventy-two earthly spirits.
Zhenghong Gate
Another highlight is the Zhenghong Gate, which is characterized by its expansive design. The gate spans three bays in both width and depth, measuring 12 meters wide and 5.89 meters deep. It features three equally sized semi-circular arched doorways. The central door, known as the Shenmen, is used for the entrance of sacrificial offerings and ceremonial texts. The east side doorway, or Junmen, serves as the entrance for the emperor and empress during their visits to the mausoleum, while the west side doorway, or Chenmen, is designated for the entrance of attendants and officials. Notably, the gate lacks door nails, and decorative corner pillars and waistline stones adorn the doorways, showcasing intricate carvings of dragons. The northern facade’s corner pillars and waistline stones remain unadorned, emphasizing the simplicity of the design.
108 Steps
The 108 Steps connect the main mausoleum, situated at the summit of Tianzhu Mountain, to the flat ground where the Zhenghong Gate and stone sculptures are located. This connection is marked by a slope of approximately 30 degrees. The steps extend about 40 meters in length and 7 meters in width. Originally paved with blue bricks, the surface was later replaced with stone slabs. On either side of the steps, brick walls have been constructed, standing at 1 meter high and topped with yellow glazed tiles. Additionally, a single-arch brick bridge, known as the Shen Bridge, is situated on each side of the steps. These bridges function as drainage systems, allowing rainwater to flow away and protecting the mausoleum from erosion.
Longen Hall
The Longen Hall, also referred to as the Hall of Grace, serves as the main building of the mausoleum complex. Within the hall, a warm chamber houses the spirit tablets of Nurhaci, the founder of the Qing Dynasty, and his consort, Empress Xiaoci Gao. This hall is a significant site for both large and small ceremonial sacrifices. The floor plan of Longen Hall is nearly square, with three bays in width and nine beams in depth. The building features a single eave and hip roof, covered with yellow glazed tiles. Among Qing Dynasty imperial tombs, the architectural style of Longen Hall is unique, as only the Zhaoling Tomb and Mu Mausoleum share similar regulations, while most others are designed with double-eave roofs. The main structure is built on a lotus pedestal, representing the central axis of the Sacred Path, and the platform features a large moon terrace surrounding it, elevated slightly above the base. The corners of the terrace are decorated with dragon-headed pillars made from a combination of blue and white stones.
