Huaqing Palace (华清宫), also known as Huaqing Hot Springs, is a famous historical site in Xi’an, located at the foot of Mount Li (骊山). This imperial retreat was a favorite of Tang Dynasty emperors, especially Emperor Xuanzong and his beloved Concubine Yang Guifei, one of the Four Great Beauties of China.
Today, it is a scenic and cultural attraction, featuring ancient hot springs, royal gardens, historical sites, and performances.
- History of Huaqing Palace
- Key Historical Periods
- What to See & Do at Huaqing Palace
- Imperial Hot Spring Pools
- “The Song of Everlasting Sorrow” Performance (长恨歌演出) – Night Show
- Beautiful Royal Gardens & Scenic Walks
- Mount Li (骊山) – Optional Hike or Cable Car
- Why visit Huaqing Palace?
- How to visit Huaqing Palace
- Ticket Prices
- Opening Hours
- How to get to Huaqing Palace
- Best time to visit
- Travel Tips
History of Huaqing Palace
Huaqing Palace has over 3,000 years of history, dating back to the Western Zhou Dynasty (1046–771 BC). It became a luxurious imperial bathing and vacation spot during the Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD).
Key Historical Periods
- Zhou & Qin Dynasties: The area was already famous for its natural hot springs.
- Han Dynasty (202 BC – 220 AD): Emperor Wu expanded the site as a hot spring retreat.
- Tang Dynasty: Emperor Xuanzong built the grandest version of Huaqing Palace, spending time there with Yang Guifei.
- Modern History (1936): The Xi’an Incident occurred here when General Zhang Xueliang detained Chiang Kai-shek, leading to cooperation against Japanese invasion.
What to See & Do at Huaqing Palace
Imperial Hot Spring Pools
See the restored hot spring pools used by Tang emperors and concubines, including:
Lotus Pool (海棠汤) – Yang Guifei’s personal bath.
Star Pool (星辰汤) – The emperor’s private bath.
Prince Pool (尚食汤) – Used by royal family members.
“The Song of Everlasting Sorrow” Performance (长恨歌演出) – Night Show
A grand outdoor performance based on the tragic love story of Emperor Xuanzong and Yang Guifei. Features 3D projections, water effects, and over 300 performers.
- Best time to visit: Spring to autumn (March–October).
- Showtime: 8:10 PM – 9:30 PM (Summer schedule).
- Ticket Price: ¥298–¥988 (depending on seating).
Beautiful Royal Gardens & Scenic Walks
Enjoy peaceful gardens, ancient pavilions, and views of Mount Li. Here you can go to a walk along the Nine Dragon Lake (九龙湖), perfect for reflection photography.
Mount Li (骊山) – Optional Hike or Cable Car
- Why visit? Great views of the Weihe River and Xi’an city. Xi’an Incident Memorial Hall is located here.
- Cable car available (~¥60 round-trip).
Why visit Huaqing Palace?
- Ancient hot spring site with imperial history.
- Stunning Tang Dynasty architecture & gardens.
- Famous love story of Emperor Xuanzong & Yang Guifei.
- Incredible night show, “The Song of Everlasting Sorrow.”
How to visit Huaqing Palace
Ticket Prices
- Huaqing Palace: ¥120
- Huaqing Palace + “Everlasting Sorrow” Show: ¥298–¥988
- Mount Li Cable Car (Optional): ¥60
Opening Hours
- Daytime: 7:30 AM – 6:30 PM
- Night Show: 8:10 PM – 9:30 PM
How to get to Huaqing Palace
Address: 38 Huaqing Road, Lintong District, Xi’an (西安市临潼区华清路38号)
By Metro: Take Metro Line 9 to Huaqing Palace Station (华清宫站).
By Taxi/Didi:
- From Xi’an city center: ~50 minutes (~¥100-150).
- From Terracotta Warriors Museum: ~15 minutes (~¥30).
By Tourist Bus: Take Bus 306 (游5) from Xi’an Railway Station (~¥7, ~1 hour).
Best time to visit
- Spring (March–May): Best weather, cherry blossoms.
- Autumn (September–November): Cool temperatures, fewer crowds.
- Evening (March–October): For the “Everlasting Sorrow” night show.
Travel Tips
Combine with the Terracotta Army – Visit in the morning, then head to Huaqing Palace in the afternoon.
Book night show tickets in advance, especially in peak season.
Wear comfortable shoes, as there’s a lot of walking.
