Location & Transportation

Huaqing Palace - Imperial Concubine's Bath sits in Lintong District, Xi’an, about 30 kilometers east of the city center. The address is No. 38 Huaqing Road, Lintong, Shaanxi Province. To get there, take Metro Line 9 to “Huaqing Pool” station, then walk 10 minutes. Buses like 602 or 613 from downtown also drop you near the entrance. If you’re coming from the Terracotta Army (a must-see nearby), a taxi takes just 15 minutes.

Natural Scenery: Hot Springs & Mountains

Huaqing Palace wraps around the slopes of Mount Li, with hot springs bubbling up from the earth. These springs, rich in minerals, have flowed here for over 6,000 years—locals call them “healing waters.” You’ll see steam rising from stone pools, framed by green trees and ancient pavilions. In winter, the misty air makes it feel like a fairyland. For a view, climb up to “Viewing the Spring Pavilion”—the sight of hot water merging with cold river water below is mind-blowing!

Cultural Stories: Royal Love & History

This place was Tang Dynasty royalty’s playground. Emperor Xuanzong and his concubine Yang Guifei (the “Imperial Concubine”) spent summers here. The bath pools where Yang Guifei soaked are preserved, with elegant carvings of dragons and phoenixes. A famous legend says Emperor Wuzong lit beacon fires to rush troops back just to prove his love—a crazy story of power and passion!

Wander through halls like “Eternal Love Pavilion”, filled with poems and art celebrating their romance. Even if you’re not into history, the palace’s red walls, golden roofs, and stone lions feel straight out of a movie.

Facilities: Practical Tips

Tickets cost around ¥120 (check latest prices online). English-friendly staff rent audio guides, but hiring a live guide adds context. Eat at the on-site cafés—try the local liangpi noodles or steamed buns. Souvenir shops sell everything from replica Tang jewelry to hot spring soap. Restrooms and chairs are plentiful, so no worries about long walks.

Visiting Experience: What to Expect

Start at the “Nine-Room Water City”, where hot springs feed into marble pools. Pose for photos at the “Imperial Concubine’s Bath” statue, a favorite for travelers. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom along the paths, making it extra magical. End your trip at “Jiuyong Pavilion” for a sunset view of Mount Li.

Bring comfy shoes—the palace sprawls uphill, but every step rewards you with views or stories. Morning visits dodge crowds, and evening light shows (seasonal) project Tang-era scenes onto walls. Pro tip: Pair this with a day trip to the Terracotta Army for a full Xi’an adventure!

Key Words: Huaqing Palace, Imperial Concubine’s Bath, hot springs, Mount Li, Tang Dynasty, Yang Guifei, Eternal Love Pavilion, Nine-Room Water City, Jiuyong Pavilion, Xi’an history.