Location & How to Get There

The Bathing Beauty, or Huaqing Palace, sits in Lintong District, just 30 kilometers east of Xi’an’s city center. It’s nestled at the foot of Mount Li, near the famous Terracotta Warriors. To reach it, you can take a 40-minute taxi ride from downtown Xi’an, hop on a direct bus (like Bus 914 or 915) from the train station, or join a day tour that combines both The Bathing Beauty and the Terracotta Warriors.

Natural Scenery: Hot Springs & Mountain Views

The Bathing Beauty is all about hot springs—warm waters that bubble up from the earth, even in winter! These springs have been loved by Chinese royalty for thousands of years. Surrounding the site, Mount Li rises like a green guard, with trails that offer panoramic views. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom along the paths, and in autumn, the mountains turn golden. Don’t miss the Jiuyong Spring (Nine-Spout Spring), where water still flows into pools, just as it did when Emperor Xuanzong and his concubine Yang Guifei enjoyed them.

Cultural Stories: Love, War, and Royal Life

This place is dripping with history! It’s where Emperor Xuanzong of the Tang Dynasty built a palace for his beloved concubine Yang Guifei, later known as The Bathing Beauty. Legend says she loved soaking in the hot springs, and the emperor even had marble baths carved for her. But there’s a dark twist: the couple’s luxury led to resentment, fueling the An Lushan Rebellion that nearly toppled the Tang Dynasty. Today, you can visit the Huaqing Pool—a reconstructed bathhouse where Yang Guifei supposedly bathed. Tour guides often joke, “Here’s where beauty met power—and trouble!”

Must-See Spots

  • Yang Guifei’s Bathhouse: A fancy pool lined with jade-like tiles, surrounded by statues of servants. It’s small but perfectly Instagrammed.
  • Wangqing Tower: Climb this tower for views of the palace gardens and distant mountains. Locals say it’s a romantic spot at sunset.
  • Stele Gallery: Ancient stone carvings show emperors who visited The Bathing Beauty over centuries. It’s like a who’s-who of Chinese royalty!

Practical Tips: Visiting The Bathing Beauty

  • Tickets: Around 120 RMB (~$17) for adults, cheaper if you buy a combo ticket with nearby attractions.
  • Guides: Rent a portable audio guide or tag along with a tour group—the stories make the site come alive.
  • Dress Code: Some areas require modest clothing (no tank tops or shorts).
  • Best Time: Spring or fall, when the weather’s mild. Summer is hot, and winter’s chilly—but hey, there’s always hot springs!

Food & Extras

Near The Bathing Beauty, you’ll find stalls selling Lishan mountain peach (a local fruit) and snacks like jianbing (a savory crepe). For lunch, try Qin Dumplings—a chain loved by locals. If you’re tired, there are plenty of chairs under pavilions, and a few cafes with tea-inspired drinks.

My Trip to The Bathing Beauty: A Day to Remember

I visited on a crisp autumn morning. The air smelled like pine and wet stone. I started at the bathhouse, then wandered uphill to see the springs bubbling into pools. A guide told me how Yang Guifei would bathe here, surrounded by petals and perfume. It felt a bit over-the-top, but also strangely magical. By afternoon, I sat by the springs, listening to the water glug-glug-glug, and imagined emperors relaxing here. It’s not a huge site, but the mix of nature, luxury, and drama makes it worth a stop.

Pro Tip: Pair The Bathing Beauty with a visit to the Terracotta Warriors (they’re super close!) and grab lunch in nearby Lintong Street Food Market for a full day of Xi’an’s history and flavors.