Location & How to Get There

Ring Garden, located inside the Huaqing Pool scenic area in Xi’an, sits at No. 38 Huaqing Road, Lintong District, Shaanxi Province. It’s nestled at the foot of Mount Li, about 30 kilometers east of Xi’an’s city center. To reach it, you can take the metro to Xi’an North Railway Station, then hop on a direct bus (like Bus 914 or 915) that drops you right at Huaqing Pool. If you’d rather drive, it’s an easy 40-minute ride from downtown Xi’an—just follow the signs to Mount Li and park near the entrance.

Natural Scenery: Hot Springs & Mountain Views

Ring Garden is all about blending nature and history. The area surrounds a cluster of hot spring pools that have bubbled here for thousands of years. Even in winter, the steam rising from the water creates a mystical vibe. The gardens themselves are designed with winding paths, ancient cypress trees, and rockeries that frame views of Mount Li’s jagged peaks. On clear days, the mountain’s autumn leaves reflect in the pools, making it feel like a painting.

Cultural Stories: Royal Baths & Love Legends

This place was a royal retreat during China’s Tang Dynasty (around 800 years ago). Emperors and their families used the hot springs for relaxation—think of it as a spa for emperors! The most famous story here involves Yang Guifei, the emperor’s beloved concubine. Legend says she loved bathing in the springs, and the garden’s layout even has a “Bath Pavilion” where she supposedly soaked. There’s also a fun tale about the emperor sending flame signals from Mount Li to amuse her—a bit like a grand historical drama!

Must-See Spots in Ring Garden

  • The Nine-Dragon Pavilion: A roof covered in colorful porcelain tiles that glint in sunlight.
  • Lion Hill: A rocky hill shaped like a lion, perfect for photos with Mount Li behind it.
  • Flower Pavilion: Where Yang Guifei reportedly dried her hair after baths, now filled with fragrant blooms.

Practical Tips: What to Bring

Ring Garden is part of the larger Huaqing Pool complex, so you’ll need to buy a combined ticket (around 120 RMB). Wear comfy shoes—there’s a lot of walking on uneven stone paths. Spring and fall are best; summer can be hot, and winter chilly (but the hot springs help!). Bring water and snacks, though there are small cafes selling tea and local cakes.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Avoid the crowds by visiting early morning or late afternoon. Locals recommend dipping your hands in the hot springs near the “Yu Lang Zhi” (Jade Ladle Spring)—it’s free and feels surprisingly smooth! For a deeper dive into history, hire a guide to explain the carvings and pavilions. And if you’re here in autumn, don’t miss the red maple leaves contrasting with the green pines—it’s Instagram gold!

Why Ring Garden Stands Out

Unlike other historic sites, Ring Garden mixes natural hot springs with Tang-era glamour. It’s not just about looking at old buildings—you can almost imagine royal servants carrying lanterns through the mist, or hear the bubbling water that’s been here since before anyone recorded history. Whether you’re into nature, photography, or epic love stories, it’s a slice of ancient China that feels alive.

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