Location & Transportation

Stele Pavilion sits inside the scenic Huaqing Pool Loop Garden in Lintong District, Xi’an, Shaanxi Province. The address is No. 38 Huaqing Road—easy to find if you’re already exploring the Huaqing Palace area. To get there, you can take the metro to Lintong Station (Line 9) and hop on a taxi or bus 602⁄613. If you’re driving from downtown Xi’an, it’s about a 40-minute drive along the Xi’an-Lintong highway. The pavilion is nestled near the foot of Mount Li, so you’ll enjoy mountain views and historic vibes all around.

Natural Scenery

Stele Pavilion isn’t just about history—it’s also tucked into a beautiful corner of Huaqing Pool’s garden. You’ll see lush trees, traditional Chinese architecture, and a peaceful pond nearby. In spring, cherry blossoms and lotus flowers add a pop of color, while winter brings a quieter, almost poetic atmosphere. The air here feels fresh, especially near the hot springs that made Huaqing Palace famous centuries ago.

Cultural & Historical Highlights

This pavilion might look small, but it’s packed with stories! It houses ancient stone tablets dating back to the Tang Dynasty, many carved by emperors or poets who visited Huaqing Palace. One tablet even has poems by Emperor Xuanzong of Tang, who built the palace for his beloved consort Yang Guifei. While you won’t see fancy decorations, the simplicity of the pavilion reflects its role as a protector of history. Some tablets are weathered, but guides can help you read the faded calligraphy or share legends tied to each artifact.

Facilities for Visitors

Stele Pavilion is easy to visit—it’s included in the Huaqing Palace ticket (around 120 RMB), so no extra cost. English-friendly signs explain most exhibits, and audio guides are available for rent. Nearby, you’ll find rest areas with chairs, clean restrooms, and snack stands selling local treats like roujiamo (Chinese burgers) or honey-coated hawthorn sticks. If you get tired, the garden has shaded spots perfect for a quick break.

Exploration Tips

For the best experience, visit Stele Pavilion in the morning or late afternoon. Start at the main Huaqing Palace entrance, then follow the garden path to the pavilion. Spend 20–30 minutes here—long enough to read a few tablets and snap photos of the intricate carvings. Pair your visit with a soak in the nearby hot springs or a walk up Mount Li for epic views. Guides often stop by, so don’t hesitate to ask them to translate tablet inscriptions or share fun facts (like how emperors used hot springs for “royal spa days” back in the day).

Whether you’re into history, nature, or just chilling in a beautiful spot, Stele Pavilion offers a quiet escape within Huaqing Palace’s bustling grounds. It’s not the flashiest attraction, but its blend of culture, nature, and royal stories makes it a must-see for curious travelers.