Location & How to Get There

Nüwa Temple, nestled within the Huaqing Palace grounds in Lintong District, Xi’an, sits quietly on the slopes of Mount Li. To reach this sacred site, you can take a taxi or bus to Huaqing Pool Scenic Area (address: No. 3 Huancheng East Road, Lintong District). If you’re coming from downtown Xi’an, it’s about a 40-minute drive. The temple is part of the larger Huaqing Palace complex, so you’ll need to enter the main entrance and follow signs toward Nüwa Temple.

Natural Scenery: A Mountain Sanctuary

Mount Li itself is a lush, forested hill with sweeping views of the surrounding plains. Nüwa Temple blends into this greenery, surrounded by ancient trees and quiet paths. The air here feels crisper, and on clear days, you can spot distant mountains and even glimpse the historic Huaqing Hot Springs below. Locals say the mountain’s energy is calming—perfect for a slow-paced visit.

Cultural Treasures: History in Every Corner

Ancient Origins

Nüwa Temple dates back to the Qin Dynasty (around 221–206 BCE), making it one of the oldest Taoist sites in China. It honors Lishan Old Mother, a revered deity linked to the mythical figure Nüwa (the goddess who mended the sky with colored stones). Though the current buildings are much newer, the temple’s soul is ancient.

Highlights Inside

  • Main Hall: Here, you’ll find a gilded statue of Lishan Old Mother, flanked by smaller statues of two other immortals. The atmosphere is peaceful, with incense smoke swirling overhead.
  • Tang Dynasty Tablet: A stone slab dated to 763 CE tells the story of a Taoist priest named Li Quan, who met the old mother on Mount Li and received a sacred text called The Classic of the Hidden Symbols. This relic is a hit among history buffs!
  • Ming Dynasty Artifacts: Look for a giant iron cauldron, cylinder, and a bell—all cast in the 1580s. These items show how devotees once funded temple repairs through donations.

Accessibility & Amenities

Nüwa Temple is easy to explore, even for families. The paths are flat, and there are benches along the way. You’ll find clean restrooms and a small café near the entrance. Tickets for Huaqing Palace (which includes access to the temple) are affordable, and English-friendly guides are available for hire. Just remember to wear comfy shoes—there’s light hiking involved!

The Experience: A Timeless Retreat

Visiting Nüwa Temple feels like stepping into a legend. Unlike crowded tourist spots, this place stays hushed, letting you soak in both nature and history. Locals come here to pray or practice tai chi, adding to the serene vibe. Combine your trip with a dip in Huaqing’s hot springs for the full Mount Li experience. Whether you’re into myths, old architecture, or just quiet beauty, Nüwa Temple won’t disappoint.