Geography & Transportation

Huaqing Palace - Bingjian Pavilion sits on the western slope of Lishan Mountain (Lishi Mountain), nestled near a distinctive tiger-striped stone halfway up the hill. The pavilion is part of the Lishan National Forest Park complex, located at No. 3 Huancheng East Road in Lintong District, Xi’an. To get there, take a taxi or bus to Huaqing Palace Station—it’s a short walk from the main entrance of the park. For those staying in downtown Xi’an, a 40-minute drive or a direct bus (like Bus 914 or 915) will drop you close to the site.

Natural Scenery

The path to Bingjian Pavilion winds through Lishan’s lush forests and scenic trails. In spring, wildflowers bloom along the route, while autumn paints the hills with red and gold foliage. The tiger-striped stone next to the pavilion is a natural highlight—its stripes resemble a tiger’s pattern, adding a touch of mystery to the area. Even though the pavilion itself is small (only 4 meters tall and 2.5 meters wide), its setting amid Lishan’s greenery makes it a peaceful spot for photos and reflection.

Historical Background

Bingjian Pavilion is famous for its connection to the Xi’an Incident of 1936, a pivotal moment in Chinese history. This was where Chiang Kai-shek (Jiang Jieshi) hid after being detained by his own generals, Zhang Xueliang and Yang Hucheng, who urged him to stop fighting Japan and unite against the enemy.

In 1946, Hu Zongnan (a senior Kuomintang officer) and officers from the Seventh Division of the Nanjing Army Academy built a stone pavilion here, originally named “Righteousness Pavilion” (Zhengqi Ting). After the People’s Republic was founded, it was renamed “Capture Chiang’s Pavilion” (Zhuojiang Ting) before settling on “Bingjian Pavilion” in the 1980s. The name “bingjian” refers to the respectful yet firm act of urging Chiang to cooperate, rather than a violent arrest.

Architecture & Design

The pavilion looks simple—just a plain stone structure—but its historical weight makes it powerful. At 4 meters tall, it’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for it. Inside, a plaque explains the events of the Xi’an Incident in both Chinese and English. Nearby, a bronze statue of Chiang Kai-shek kneeling adds context to his dramatic escape. Despite its modest size, the pavilion attracts crowds due to its link to China’s modern history.

Visiting Experience

Exploring Bingjian Pavilion takes about 30 minutes, but combine it with a visit to nearby Huaqing Palace (famous for its hot springs and Tang dynasty palaces) for a full day trip. The pavilion is a short hike from Huaqing Palace’s main gate, so wear comfortable shoes.

  • Guided Tours: Some guides dress in period costume and reenact the Xi’an Incident—great for history buffs.
  • Photo Tips: The tiger-striped stone and the pavilion’s sign make perfect backdrops. Go early (before 9 AM) to avoid crowds.
  • Entry: Included in the Huaqing Palace ticket (around 120 RMB/$17). Check hours online, as they vary by season.

Facilities

The area is tourist-friendly:

  • Restrooms: Clean public facilities near the parking lot.
  • Souvenirs: Vendors sell snacks, water, and Xi’an-themed memorabilia.
  • Shade: Plenty of trees for breaks, but bring sunscreen in summer.

Why It’s Worth a Visit

Even if you’re not a history expert, Huaqing Palace - Bingjian Pavilion offers a glimpse into China’s 20th-century turmoil. It’s not just a pavilion—it’s a symbol of how one event shaped modern China. Plus, the hike up Lishan is rewarding, with views of the Huaqing Palace valley below. For a mix of nature, history, and drama, this spot should be on every Xi’an itinerary.