Huaqing Hot Spring (华清池), also known as Huaqing Palace (华清宫), is a grand and magnificent historical site nestled against the mountainside overlooking the Wei River in China. Originally named “Tangquan Palace” and later renamed “Wenquan Palace,” it earned various titles throughout history, including “Lishan Palace,” “Ligong,” and “Xiu Ling Palace.” Its construction dates back to the early Tang Dynasty, but it reached its zenith during the reign of Emperor Xuanzong.
Emperor Xuanzong dedicated great effort to the expansion and beautification of Huaqing Palace. He frequented the palace almost every October, returning to Chang’an at year’s end. However, with the outbreak of the An Lushan Rebellion and the subsequent turmoil in Chinese politics, the splendor of Huaqing Palace waned rapidly. Subsequent emperors visited it less frequently.
Throughout the dynasties, there were efforts to maintain and repair the palace, but by the time of the Chinese Liberation, the once vibrant hot spring retreat had fallen into disrepair, with its pools and palaces in a state of neglect.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Huaqing Hot Spring
- Vlog about Huaqing Hotspring
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Facts about Huaqing Palace
- Other Palaces in Xi’an
Basic Information
| Telephone Number | 0086-029-83812003 |
| Estimated Length of Tower | 1-2 hours |
| Opening Hours | 7.30 – 18.00; Last entry: 17.40 (1st January – 9th September) 7.30 – 17.00; Last entry: 16.40 (10th September – 31st December) |
| Ticket Price | Adult: 120 yuan Children under 6 years old or below 1.2 meters: free Senior citizens above 65 years old: free adolescent between 6 and 18 years old: 60 yuan |
Location and Transportation
Huaqing Hot Spring, is located in Lintong District, Xi’an, in the Shaanxi Province of China. It is situated at the northern foot of the Lishan Mountain Range, approximately 30 kilometers east of the city center of Xi’an.
Bus: Take Lingtong 601, 602, or 613 or Tourist Line 5 or 396, get off at Huaqingchi Stop (Huaqing Hot Spring), walk about 50 meters to the south to reach the entrance.
Subway: this is the most convenient way to get to the pool. Take subway line 9, get off Huaqingchi Station (Huaqing Hot Spring), and the entrance is right to your south.
Highlights of Huaqing Hot Spring
Huaqing Palace
Built during the Tang Dynasty, Huaqing palace was once a royal residence for the emperors and their concubines. It is now a museum that showcases the history and culture of the area, featuring ancient artifacts, murals, and architectural features that date back over a thousand years. The palace is surrounded by beautiful gardens and natural hot spring pools, providing a serene and picturesque setting. Visiting Huaqing Palace offers a unique opportunity to learn about China’s rich cultural heritage and imperial history.
Natural Hot Spring Pools
The natural hot spring pools are fed by underground springs with temperatures ranging from 36 to 43 degrees Celsius, making them a popular destination for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. The water in the pools is rich in minerals and is said to have therapeutic properties that can help alleviate various ailments. There are several pools in the Huaqing Hot Spring Scenic Area, each with its unique features and temperature. Visitors can choose to take a dip in the pools, enjoy the stunning natural scenery around them, or even get a traditional Chinese massage while soaking in the warm waters.
Lishan Mountain Range
Huaqing Hot Spring is located at the northern foot of the Lishan Mountain Range, which is renowned for its natural beauty, with lush forests, waterfalls, and stunning vistas. Visitors can hike up the mountain trails to explore the scenic beauty of the area and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The mountain range is also home to several historic sites, including the Mausoleum of the Yellow Emperor, the Qianling Mausoleum, and the Tomb of Emperor Taizong of Tang.
Tang Dynasty Show
The Tang Dynasty show is a musical and dance performance that showcases the culture and history of the Tang Dynasty, which was one of the most prosperous periods in Chinese history. The show features performers dressed in traditional Tang Dynasty costumes and performing on a stage with intricate backdrops and lighting. It includes classical Chinese music, dance, and acrobatics, and tells the story of Emperor Xuanzong and his beloved concubine Yang Guifei.
Vlog about Huaqing Hotspring
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Guided Tours: If you have ample time, consider joining a guided tour at Huaqing Palace. Guides can provide insightful information about the historical significance of the site and take you to key attractions such as the Royal Hot Springs relics, hot spring springs, and the site of the Xi’an Incident, where authentic bullet holes are preserved.
Avoid Sightseeing Cars: The sightseeing cars at Huaqing Palace are often regarded as unnecessary expenses. They cover only a short distance, lasting just a few minutes, yet they can be quite costly. It’s recommended to skip the sightseeing cars and walk to most areas of interest on foot to avoid overpaying.
Attend the “Chang’an Impression” Performance: The “Chang’an Impression” performance, also known as the “Song of Everlasting Sorrow,” is a spectacular show that lasts for about 70 minutes. It’s a must-see attraction in Xi’an, offering a captivating portrayal of historical events and cultural elements. Tickets for the performance are in high demand during peak seasons, so it’s advisable to book in advance. The performance offers different ticket categories with varying prices, but the mid-range seats in Zone A offer the best viewing angles and value for money.
Rain Gear for the Performance: If you’re planning to attend the “Chang’an Impression” performance in the evening, you won’t need to purchase rain gear outside. Upon entry, staff members will provide rain gear if needed, ensuring you’re prepared for any unexpected weather conditions during the outdoor performance.
