Discover Xijia Tower: A Hidden Gem in Huaqing Palace

Location & How to Get There

Xijia Tower sits nestled within the historic Huaqing Palace complex in Liutong District, Xi’an. The exact address is No. 38 Huaqing Road, Liutong District, Shaanxi Province—easy to find if you’re already exploring the area. To reach it, you can take the Xi’an Metro Line 9 to Huaqing Pool Station, then walk about 10 minutes. If you’re driving, there’s ample parking near the palace entrance. For those staying in downtown Xi’an, a taxi or ride-sharing app like Didi will get you here in under an hour.

Natural Scenery: Mountains, Water, and Golden Hour

Xijia Tower isn’t just a historic site—it’s also a perfect spot for nature lovers. The tower overlooks the Qinling Mountains, with the iconic Mount Li (Lishan) rising behind it. On clear days, the mountains seem to touch the sky, especially during sunrise or sunset. The nearby hot springs add a misty, serene atmosphere, and the grounds are filled with ancient pine trees and stone paths. For the best views, visit during golden hour (the hour before sunset) when the light bathes the mountains in warm hues. Don’t forget your camera—this is postcard-worthy!

Cultural Stories: Tang Dynasty Royalty and Romance

Xijia Tower’s real charm lies in its history. This spot was once a royal retreat for emperors of the Tang Dynasty, especially Emperor Xuanzong and his beloved concubine Yang Guifei (known as Lady Yang). Legend says they often enjoyed sunsets here, which is why the tower is named “Xijia” (“best view at night”). While the original tower is long gone, the modern reconstruction still feels steeped in romance. Nearby, you’ll find statues and exhibits explaining how emperors used the hot springs for bathing—a clue to why this place was so popular!

What to See: Architecture and Neighboring Attractions

The tower itself is a traditional Chinese pavilion with wooden beams and tile roofs, typical of ancient palace designs. Climb the steps for a 360-degree view of Huaqing Palace and Mount Li. Below Xijia Tower, there’s a stone terrace where locals love to sit and chat. Just a short walk away, you’ll find the famous Huaqing Hot Springs pools, where you can soak your feet (though swimming isn’t allowed). For history buffs, the nearby Huaqing Palace Museum has artifacts from the Tang Dynasty, including Emperor Xuanzong’s bathhouse!

Practical Tips: Food, Restrooms, and More

The area around Xijia Tower is tourist-friendly. Inside Huaqing Palace, you’ll find clean restrooms, souvenir shops, and snack stalls selling local specialties like jiangcake (a sweet, date-filled treat) and Lishan stone cakes. There’s also a visitor center with maps and English-speaking guides if you want to learn more. Bring water and snacks, though—it’s a big area to explore!

My Visit: A Relaxing Yet Rich Experience

I visited Xijia Tower on a weekday afternoon, and it felt peaceful compared to Xi’an’s busier spots. The combination of history, nature, and quiet made it a perfect escape. I recommend spending 1–2 hours here: climb the tower, stroll along the paths, and snap photos of the mountains. If you’re visiting Xi’an, pair this with a trip to the Terracotta Warriors or the Big Wild Goose Pagoda for a full day of sightseeing. Just be prepared for crowds during holidays—come early or late!

Pro tip: The light at Xijia Tower is magical during sunset, but arrive early to secure a good spot!