Location & How to Get There

White Lotus Pavilion sits inside the Huaqing Gong palace complex in Xi’an’s Lintong District, at No. 38 Huaqing Road. It’s nestled at the foot of Mount Li, about 30 kilometers east of downtown Xi’an. To reach it, you can take a taxi or bus (like Bus 914⁄915) from Xi’an North Railway Station, which takes around 1 hour. If you’re coming from Xianyang Airport, a 1.5-hour drive will get you there. The pavilion is part of Huaqing Gong’s historic grounds, so just follow the signs to this famous hot spring palace.

Natural Scenery: A Relaxing Escape

The White Lotus Pavilion overlooks a tranquil pond filled with lotus flowers, especially stunning in summer when pink and white blooms cover the water. The pavilion’s design blends into this natural beauty, with wooden railings and tilted roofs that reflect traditional Chinese architecture. Surrounding trees provide shade, making it a cool spot to escape the afternoon heat. You’ll hear birds chirping and see dragonflies dancing over the lily pads—perfect for photos or simply sitting quietly.

Cultural Stories: Tang Dynasty Ties

This pavilion isn’t just pretty—it’s steeped in history! Back in the Tang Dynasty, Emperor Xuanzong and his consort Yang Guifei (a.k.a. Lady Yang) often visited Huaqing Gong’s hot springs. Legend says Yang Guifei loved lotus flowers, so the pavilion was built for her to admire them. While the original structure isn’t here anymore, the rebuilt version still captures the poetic vibe of that era. You’ll see carvings and decorations inspired by Tang art, and guides often share tales of ancient royalty enjoying these very gardens.

Practical Tips: What to Expect

Tickets: White Lotus Pavilion is included in Huaqing Gong’s main ticket (around 120 RMB).
Guided Tours: Audio guides are available in English, or you can join a group tour with a guide.
Food & Rest: Nearby, there are snack stalls selling local treats like meat pies and sour plum soup. For meals, try the restaurants inside Huaqing Gong’s visitor center.
Accessibility: The pavilion has steps, but ramps are available for wheelchairs.

Immersive Experience: More Than Just Looking

Visiting White Lotus Pavilion feels like stepping into a painting. Early mornings are magical—the mist over the pond makes the lotus flowers look ethereal. If you’re lucky, you might catch a traditional music performance near the pavilion, where musicians play guzheng or erhu, adding to the ambiance. Don’t miss the nearby Nine-Dragon Lake, where you can rent a boat for a different view of the palace’s rooftops and mountains.

Best Time to Visit & Photo Spots

Ideal Seasons: Spring (lotus buds emerging) and summer (full blooms) are top choices. Avoid winter if you’re not into cold winds.
Photo Ops: The pavilion’s reflection on the water at dawn is a must-capture. For a classic shot, stand by the stone bridge leading to the pavilion, framing the lotus pond behind it. At sunset, the golden light on the roof tiles creates a warm contrast with the green leaves.

Final Tips: Make the Most of Your Trip

  • Combine Visits: Huaqing Gong has other gems like the Terracotta Army-inspired exhibitions and hot spring baths.
  • Dress Smart: Wear comfy shoes—the palace complex is large, and you’ll walk on cobblestones.
  • Avoid Crowds: Go mid-week or early morning to beat tour groups.

White Lotus Pavilion offers a peaceful break from Xi’an’s bustling sights. Whether you’re into nature, history, or just soaking in beauty, it’s a hidden gem worth adding to your itinerary.