Location & How to Get There

Nine-Bend Arbour sits inside the Huaqing Palace complex in Xi’an’s Lintong District, nestled at the foot of Mount Li (Lishan) and next to the hot springs that made this spot famous. To reach it, take Bus 914 or 915 from Xi’an Train Station (about 1 hour) and hop off at “Huaqing Pool.” If you’re coming from downtown, the metro Line 9 stops at “Huaqing Pool Station,” just a 10-minute walk away. Driving? Plop the address into Google Maps: No. 38 Huaqing Road, Lintong, Shaanxi Province.

Natural Scenery: Mountains, Springs, and Fresh Air

The Nine-Bend Arbour isn’t just about history—it’s also a sneaky peek into nature. Surrounded by Mount Li’s greenery, the area feels like a breath of fresh air (literally!). In spring, cherry blossoms bloom along the arbour’s winding paths, while winter brings snowy views of the mountain. Don’t miss the hot springs bubbling nearby; they’ve been around for 6,000 years and still flow today!

Culture & History: Royal Stories and Smart Design

This isn’t just a pretty path—it’s a history lesson in landscape design. Built during the Tang Dynasty, Nine-Bend Arbour was where emperors and their royal families strolled. The name? It’s a nod to Chinese symbolism: nine bends represent longevity and good luck, kind of like a lucky charm built into the architecture. Legend says Emperor Xuanzong and his consort Yang Guifei (the “most beautiful woman in China”) once walked here, sharing whispers and poems.

The arbour’s walls are lined with carved poems and paintings, so keep an eye out for ancient art. Fun fact: There’s a spot near the arbour where emperors lit fires to send signals—like an ancient alarm system!

What to See & Do

  • Walk the winding path: The arbour’s nine turns make it a fun, photo-worthy hike. Each bend offers a new view of Mount Li or the palace’s rooftops.
  • Hot spring hand baths: Nearby, you can dip your hands in the same warm springs that royalty enjoyed. (Just don’t drink the water—it’s sulfuric!)
  • Evening light shows: At night, the arbour lights up with colorful lanterns, turning it into a magical pathway.

Practical Tips: Tickets, Food, and More

  • Tickets: Huaqing Palace costs ¥120 ($17) and includes access to Nine-Bend Arbour. Buy online to skip lines.
  • Guides: Rent an audio guide (¥30) for stories about emperors and empires.
  • Eat & Rest: The palace has cafes serving local snacks like roujiamo (meat buns) and yogurt with honey. Bring water—there’s shade, but it gets sunny!

Why You’ll Love It

Nine-Bend Arbour is the perfect mix of nature, history, and Instagram fodder. It’s less crowded than the Terracotta Army but equally epic. Wear comfy shoes, bring a camera, and get ready to snap shots of the arbour’s red walls, green mountains, and (if you’re lucky) a traditional music performance. Pro tip: Visit on a weekday morning to beat the crowds!

Whether you’re into hiking, history, or just soaking up vibes, Nine-Bend Arbour is a Xi’an must-see. Trust me—your feed will thank you!