Geographical Location

Lotus Hall sits inside the Huaqing Pool complex in Xi’an’s Lintong District, at No. 38 Huaqing Road. This spot is nestled at the foot of the Qinling Mountains, surrounded by lush greenery and hot springs. It’s about 30 kilometers east of central Xi’an, making it a quick escape from the city’s hustle. The area feels peaceful, with steam rising from natural hot springs and ancient pavilions dotting the landscape.

Transportation

To reach Lotus Hall, you can take the metro to Xianyang Airport Station (Line 9) and transfer to a bus headed to Huaqing Pool. Alternatively, a taxi or ride-hailing app like Didi works well—just show the address to the driver. If you’re driving, there’s a parking lot near the entrance. The journey from downtown Xi’an takes around 40 minutes, and the scenic route offers glimpses of terraced fields and mountains.

Natural Landscape

The real star here is the hot springs. Lotus Hall overlooks one of the oldest natural springs in China, which bubble up at a steady 43°C. In the morning, mist rises from the water, creating a mystical atmosphere. Surrounding gardens are filled with lotus flowers in summer, which inspired the hall’s name. Shade-giving willow trees and stone bridges add to the serene vibe. For photo ops, visit during sunrise when the light dances on the water’s surface.

Cultural Heritage

Lotus Hall dates back to the Tang Dynasty, originally built for Emperor Xuanzong and his consort Yang Guifei. Royalty used it for bathing rituals, believing the springs had healing powers. Legend says Yang Guifei’s beauty routines included soaking in these baths! Inside, you’ll see restored murals depicting court life and poetic verses carved into walls. A small museum nearby explains how emperors used the springs for both relaxation and politics.

Facilities

The site is tourist-friendly. You’ll find clear signage in English, clean restrooms, and a visitor center with maps. Guides offer audio devices in multiple languages, which play stories as you walk. There’s a cafe serving tea and snacks near the springs, plus gift shops stocked with lotus-themed souvenirs. Renting a traditional robe for photos is a fun extra—perfect for Instagram!

Visiting Experience

Start your tour at dawn to avoid crowds. Walk through the main gate, snap a pic of the red-walled Lotus Hall against the mountain backdrop, then explore the springs. Don’t miss the reenactment of the “flight-of-geese” dance, inspired by Yang Guifei’s legend. If you’re brave, dip your hands in the spring water—it’s warm and mineral-rich! End your trip with a stroll along the Nine-Dragon Lake, where dragon statues spout water in sync.

Pro tip: Pair your visit with a stop at the Terracotta Army in Xi’an. Both spots share Tang Dynasty roots, and they’re only an hour apart by car. Wear comfy shoes—there’s lots of pavement to cover, but the views make it worth it!