Location & Transportation

Shangshan Lake, nestled in the Huaqing Palace Scenic Area (No. 38 Huaqing Road, Lintong District, Xi’an), lies on the eastern side of the Laozi Temple (Old君殿) within Mount Li National Forest Park. To get there, take bus No. 914⁄915 from Xi’an Railway Station to Huaqing Street, then walk 10 minutes. Alternatively, a 40-minute taxi ride from Xi’an North Railway Station drops you right at this serene spot.

Natural Beauty: A Hidden Gem

Shangshan Lake is a small artificial lake carved into the mountain slope, about half the size of a football field. Its inner edge hugs the rocky cliffs, while a low railing marks the outer boundary. The real magic? Lotus flowers blanket the water year-round, and crystal-clear water lets you spot fish gliding slowly. On autumn days, the lake mirrors the colorful forest—orange, red, and yellow leaves—creating a dreamy reflection with the distant Laozi Temple. Even locals call it a “mountain sanctuary” (骊山圣境)!

Cultural Charm: Daoist Vibes

The lake’s connection to Laozi Temple adds a spiritual layer. The temple, dedicated to Laozi (the founder of Daoism), sits quietly above the lake, creating a harmonious “dialogue” between human art and nature. Though the lake itself isn’t ancient, its design—using mountain springs and lotus symbolism—echoes traditional Chinese garden aesthetics. It’s a perfect spot for quiet reflection or photo ops with the temple in the background.

Practical Tips: What to Expect

  • Paths & Viewpoints: A stone-paved walkway loops around the lake, with wooden platforms offering prime angles for photos.
  • Open Hours: Matches Huaqing Palace’s schedule (7:00 AM–6:30 PM). Entry is included in the Huaqing Palace ticket (~￥120).
  • Crowds: Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid tour groups. Weekdays are calmer than weekends.
  • Extras: Nearby snack stalls sell local treats like steamed buns, and a small shop offers postcards of Shangshan Lake.

Experience: Why You Should Go

Walking around Shangshan Lake feels like stepping into a living painting. The mix of mountain air, lotus scent, and rustling leaves makes it easy to forget you’re just 30 km from bustling downtown Xi’an. Bring a pair of comfortable shoes—the gentle uphill path takes about 20 minutes to explore, but every step rewards you with new views. For photographers, golden hour (sunrise/sunset) turns the lake into a glittering mirror surrounded by fiery hues. Even if you’re not into hiking, this pocket-sized paradise is worth a detour!