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Huaqing Palace & Lishan Mountain Cultural Tour - A Journey Through China's Imperial History

Explore the legendary Huaqing Palace, a 5A-rated national treasure near Xi'an, where emperors from Zhou to Tang dynasties built their retreats. Discover ancient hot springs, the famous 'Beacon Fire' story, Emperor Xuanzong's love affair with Yang Guifei, and the historic Xi'an Incident site. This cultural gem offers a fascinating glimpse into China's imperial past.

Highlights

1

China's oldest continuously used hot springs - the 'First Imperial Spring' with 6,000 years of history

2

Tang Dynasty imperial bath ruins and the romantic Begonia Pool built for Yang Guifei

3

Site of the pivotal 1936 Xi'an Incident that changed modern Chinese history

4

Beautiful mountain scenery with Lishan's famous sunset view

5

Multiple UNESCO-level cultural relics in one compact historic area

About This Tour

Duration

2 hours

Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

Accessibility

This tour is wheelchair accessible

Skip The Line

Skip the line access at attractions

Description

Located just 30km east of Xi'an and adjacent to the Terracotta Warriors, Huaqing Palace is one of China's most significant historical sites. As a national 5A-level scenic area, it boasts 6,000 years of continuous hot spring use, earning its 'First Imperial Spring' title. The palace complex features Tang Dynasty bath ruins, the Five-Room Hall where the Xi'an Incident occurred, beautiful lakes, and numerous architectural wonders. Nearby Lishan Mountain (1,302m) offers additional historical sites and the famous 'Lishan Sunset' view. The site's rich history includes the legendary 'Beacon Fire' story from 779 BC, Emperor Xuanzong's 10-year romance with Yang Guifei (for whom the special 'Begonia Pool' was built), and the pivotal 1936 Xi'an Incident that changed modern Chinese history. Visitors can explore museums, ancient temples, and enjoy the therapeutic hot springs that have attracted rulers for millennia. The site operates daily from 7:30-18:40, with last entry at 18:10. Free admission is available for children under 1.2m or 6 years old.

What's Included

Entrance ticket to Huaqing Palace scenic area
Access to Tang Dynasty bath ruins museum
Visit to Xi'an Incident historic site (Five-Room Hall)
Entry to all open architectural complexes and gardens
Basic site map and orientation materials
Guided tour services (available for additional fee)
Transportation to/from Xi'an
Meals and personal expenses
Hot spring bathing experience (separate ticket required)
Cable car ride up Lishan Mountain

Important Information

Admission Policy

  • Free for children under 1.2m or 6 years old
  • Bring original ID/passport for ticket collection
  • Last entry at 18:10, site closes at 18:40

Recommended Visit Time

  • Allow 3-4 hours for comprehensive visit
  • Morning visits recommended to avoid crowds
  • Combine with Terracotta Warriors tour (same area)

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