Location & How to Get There

Huaqing Resort sits in Lintong District, Xi’an, just a 30-minute drive east from the city center. The address is No. 38 Huaqing Road—easy to find if you’re visiting nearby attractions like the Terracotta Army. To reach Huaqing Resort, you can:

  • By metro: Take Line 9 to Huaqing Pool Station (华清池站), then walk 10 minutes.
  • By bus: Tourist buses like 613 or 914 stop right outside.
  • By taxi: From Xi’an downtown, it costs about ¥50–¥80.

Natural Scenery: Hot Springs & Mountains

Huaqing Resort is famous for its hot springs, which bubble up from the earth at a warm 43°C (110°F). These springs have been popular for over 3,000 years! Surrounding the pools, you’ll see Lishan Mountain (Líshān), covered with green trees and trails. A morning hike here feels peaceful, especially when the mist rises over the hot water. In autumn, red leaves reflect on the steamy pools—it’s like a painting!

Cultural Stories: Emperors & Love Legends

This place is packed with history! In ancient times, Chinese emperors visited Huaqing Resort to bathe and relax. The most famous story is about Emperor Xuanzong (唐玄宗) and his lover Lady Yang (杨贵妃). They built palaces here, like Changsheng Hall (长生殿), where they once watched performances. There’s even a spot called “Jade Pool” (玉池) where Lady Yang supposedly bathed. Another quirky tale: the emperor ordered a “smoke signal” (烽火台) lit just for a laugh, which later caused soldiers to lose trust in him.

Must-See Sites at Huaqing Resort

  • Nine-Dragon Lake: A pretty pond with dragon statues spitting water.
  • Wujiang Pavilion: A roofed hall where emperors rested after bathing.
  • Stone Reliefs: Old carvings showing dances and royal events.
  • Yang Guifei’s Bathhouse: A recreated pool with fancy tiles.

Practical Tips: What to Bring

  • Wear comfy shoes! The resort has slopes and stairs.
  • Bring swimwear if you want to try the hot springs (there are public pools).
  • Entrance tickets cost ¥120, but some historic areas cost extra.
  • Guided tours in English are available—ask at the visitor center.

Food & Facilities

Inside Huaqing Resort, you’ll find:

  • Restaurants serving local dishes like 羊肉泡馍 (lamb stew noodles) and 葫芦鸡 (suckling pig).
  • Souvenir shops with Tang-dynasty-themed items.
  • Clean restrooms and seating areas with views of Lishan.

My Visit Experience

I spent 3 hours at Huaqing Resort and loved it! I started with a walk around the hot springs, then climbed Lishan for sunset views. The guide shared stories in simple English, making history fun. Tip: Go early to avoid crowds, and don’t miss the evening light show at Changsheng Hall!

Key words: Huaqing Resort, hot springs, Lishan, Emperor Xuanzong, Lady Yang, Changsheng Hall, Wujiang Pavilion, Terracotta Army, Lintong District, Xi’an.