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Huaqing Palace (Huaqing Hot Springs)

4.2
·234 reviews·Xi An Shi, China

Imperial hot springs, stunning gardens, and historical tales of the Tang Dynasty await at this scenic mountainside retreat near Xi'an.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Eternal Life Hall

Huaqing Palace (Huaqing Hot Springs)

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Imperial hot springs, stunning gardens, and historical tales of the Tang Dynasty await at this scenic mountainside retreat near Xi'an.

4.2
(234 reviews)

"A wonderful garden! The beautiful scenery made everything worth it, even in the heat."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book tickets in advance

Consider purchasing tickets online to save time, especially during peak seasons.

👟 Wear comfortable shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast grounds and gardens.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Rating

4.2 · 261 reviews

Type

Tourist Attraction

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Imperial Hot Springs

Imperial Hot Springs

Various pools and bathing areas

Experience the legendary hot springs once favored by Tang Dynasty emperors and empresses. Constant 42°C water offers a unique historical soak.

Reddit
Stunning Gardens

Stunning Gardens

Throughout the complex

Wander through meticulously maintained gardens with beautiful scenery, offering a peaceful escape from the city.

Reddit
Tang Dynasty Show

Tang Dynasty Show

Open-air theater

Don't miss the spectacular night show depicting Tang Dynasty history and culture. A truly memorable experience.

Reddit
Li Shan Mountain Ascent

Li Shan Mountain Ascent

Behind the palace complex

Hike or take a cable car up Li Shan for panoramic views and historical sites. The journey offers fun discoveries.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Combine with Terracotta Army

Huaqing Palace is conveniently located near the Terracotta Army, making it easy to visit both in one day. Many travelers recommend bundling these iconic Xi'an attractions for efficiency. Reddit

Beat the Heat and Crowds

Summer can be extremely hot and humid, but the scenery is still breathtaking. Consider visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the peak heat and larger tour groups. Reddit

Best Times

When
Spring & Autumn mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday evenings
Why
Enjoy the night show
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Travel In China Is Safe For A Black Man😏 #creatorsearchinsights #travelinchina #travelinchinaxinjiang #travelinchinatips #travelinchinavlog #travelinchinananjing #travelinchinajournal #travelinchinablack #blackpeopleinchinatravel
@passportvisionz_
1.7M likes • 17.7M views

🎟️ Book tickets in advance

Consider purchasing tickets online to save time, especially during peak seasons. Reddit

👟 Wear comfortable shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast grounds and gardens. Reddit

Have a good trip in China but remember these!!! #travelinchina #chinatravel #chinesefood #china @karissaeats
@sirelleparis
1.2M likes • 24.4M views
reddit.com

First time in Xi'an

Hi, I'm travelling to Xi'an for the first time and will be there for two full days. I'd like to know what recommendations does anyone have. I'm interested in seeing the great mosque and other Islamic sections. I've heard that the food in the Muslim quarter is sub-par, but does…

💧 Stay hydrated

Especially during warmer months, carry water to combat the heat and humidity. Reddit

📸 Dress up for photos

Rent traditional Chinese costumes for fun, memorable photos within the historic setting. Reddit

reddit.com

Xi'an best evening show

I see there is a "legend of the camel toe" and a Chang Hen Ge Evening Show in Huaqing Pool. Having only one night in Xi'an, what is the best. Can't find any reviews online for them, neither were to buy tickets from official vendor, only resellers.

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book tickets in advance

Consider purchasing tickets online to save time, especially during peak seasons. Reddit

👟 Wear comfortable shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast grounds and gardens. Reddit

💧 Stay hydrated

Especially during warmer months, carry water to combat the heat and humidity. Reddit

📸 Dress up for photos

Rent traditional Chinese costumes for fun, memorable photos within the historic setting. Reddit

🗣️ Guides can be persistent

Politely decline if you don't want a guide; they may approach you frequently. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.2
(234 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Huaqing Palace for its scenic beauty, historical significance, and the captivating Tang Dynasty Show. The hot springs add a unique element, and its proximity to the Terracotta Army makes it a convenient addition to any Xi'an itinerary. Some find the hot spring experience pricey and advise against the food options within the palace.

"Hot spring for the Tang emperor and empress, nice site to visit with history. Location is very scenic and hot spring water is at 42C constant temperature. It is nice to bundle the visit with terracotta worrier, both sites are close to one another. You can experience the hot spring, but at a very steep price!!!"

David Chin

"What a wonderful garden! Although it was extremely hot and humid, the beautiful scenery I was able to witness made everything worth it!"

Kyujin Kim

"First of all, this place is easily accessible by bus (from Xian train station). Air here is magnificent as compared to the city areas. Great views and packed with history. Many guides are around and will come up to you constantly trying to sell their service (best way to avoid the constant haggling if you does not want a guide is to just say you've been there before). Beautiful architectures on the inside and the place is big for exploring. A spring water fountain is located inside for tourists to try out the water (washing hands and faces only). If you are game enough or have enough time, Li Shan (Li Mountain) is right behind and entry to the mountain is covered with the ticket you bought to enter the hot spring. Cable car accesses are available for going up and down the mountain. However, climbing up yourself is recommended as there are many fun things along the way (like horse riding the last mile up the mountains).
Overall, a really nice place to stay for the whole day."

Samuel

What People Like

Beautiful gardens and scenery
Rich historical significance
Spectacular Tang Dynasty Show

What People Dislike

Expensive hot spring access
Sub-par food options

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Huaqing Palace is easily accessible by public transport from Xi'an. Bus routes like the 306 or 914 from Xi'an Train Station are common and affordable options. Reddit The journey typically takes about an hour. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available, offering more convenience but at a higher cost.

Yes, Huaqing Palace is located very close to the Terracotta Army, making it a popular combination for a day trip from Xi'an. Reddit Many visitors choose to visit both sites on the same day.

The two sites are a short distance apart, so you can take a local bus, a taxi, or even a short walk if you enjoy exploring. Reddit

Yes, numerous tour operators in Xi'an offer day tours that include Huaqing Palace, often combined with the Terracotta Army. This can be a convenient option if you prefer not to arrange transportation yourself. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available at Huaqing Palace for visitors who are driving. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices can vary, but generally, admission to Huaqing Palace includes access to the grounds, gardens, and historical buildings. Reddit The Tang Dynasty show is often a separate ticket or package. It's advisable to check the official website for the most current pricing.

While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons or holidays, to avoid long queues. Reddit

Huaqing Palace typically opens in the morning and closes in the late afternoon or early evening. The Tang Dynasty show usually takes place in the evening. Always verify the exact hours before your visit. Reddit

Often, the Tang Dynasty show is a separate ticket or part of a premium package. It's a highly recommended experience, so factor in the additional cost if you wish to see it. Reddit

Yes, official guides are available for hire at Huaqing Palace. You can also hire guides outside the entrance, but be prepared for potential haggling. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Huaqing Palace offers a rich historical experience with its ancient bathing pools, beautiful gardens, imperial residences, and the scenic Li Shan mountain. Reddit You can explore the history of the Tang Dynasty, enjoy the natural beauty, and witness the captivating Tang Dynasty show. Reddit

Yes, Huaqing Palace is famous for its historical hot springs. While you can't typically bathe in the original imperial pools, there are areas where you can feel the warm spring water and learn about its significance. Reddit

Absolutely! Li Shan mountain is located behind the palace and is accessible with your ticket. You can hike up or take a cable car for stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Reddit

Yes, Huaqing Palace can be a great experience for families. The gardens offer space to roam, and the historical aspects can be educational. The Tang Dynasty show is also entertaining for all ages. Reddit

To fully appreciate the site, including the palace grounds, gardens, and potentially a hike up Li Shan, plan for at least half a day. If you intend to see the Tang Dynasty show, you'll need to stay into the evening. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The imperial bathing pools, the meticulously landscaped gardens, the architecture of the ancient buildings, and the panoramic views from Li Shan mountain are all fantastic photo opportunities. Reddit

Professional photography permits might be required for certain types of shoots. Drone usage is generally restricted in historical and scenic areas for safety and preservation reasons. It's best to check with the management beforehand. Reddit

Yes, many visitors enjoy renting traditional Tang Dynasty costumes to take memorable photos within the palace grounds. This is a popular activity. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon light offers the most flattering illumination for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and capturing a softer ambiance. Reddit

Photography may be restricted inside certain historical buildings or exhibition areas to protect artifacts. Look for signage indicating 'No Photography' zones. Reddit

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