The Huaqing hot spring has a rich history dating back over 3,000 years and has been associated with many fascinating stories and legends. But the most well-known one is definitely the love story between Emperor Xuanzong and Yang Guifei. Emperor Xuanzong was a ruler of the Tang Dynasty, which is considered one of China’s golden ages. Yang Guifei was one of his many concubines, known for her beauty and intelligence.
According to legend, Emperor Xuanzong fell deeply in love with Yang Guifei and became obsessed with her. He spent much of his time with her, neglecting his duties as emperor. They often visited the Huaqing Hot Spring together, where they would relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings.
The Huaqing Hot Spring played an important role in their love story as it was a place where they could escape the pressures of palace life and spend time together in private. The hot spring was also believed to have therapeutic benefits, and Emperor Xuanzong believed that the waters would help Yang Guifei stay youthful and beautiful.
Their romance, however, came to a tragic end when a rebellion broke out in 755 AD. Emperor Xuanzong was forced to flee the capital, Chang’an, with Yang Guifei and his entourage. However, they were eventually caught and forced to separate. Yang Guifei was executed, and Emperor Xuanzong was forced to abdicate the throne.
The love story between Emperor Xuanzong and Yang Guifei has been immortalized in Chinese literature and art, including the famous painting “Spring Dawn at Huaqing Palace” by Gu Hongzhong. And it is still the most frequently discussed topic when people visit the hot spring.