Location & How to Get There
Xingqing Palace Park sits in the eastern part of Xi’an, near the city’s old walls. The address is straightforward: 55 West Xianning Road, Beilin District, Shaanxi Province. If you’re coming from the city center, it’s a short taxi or bus ride away. The park is easy to reach by public transport—take Metro Line 3 or 4 and hop off at the nearby stations, then walk about 10 minutes. Local buses like No. 221 or No. 240 also drop you close to the entrance. For history lovers, the park is right next to the Tang Dynasty’s original Xingqing Palace ruins, so you’re stepping into a blend of ancient vibes and modern green space.
Natural Scenery: Lakes, Hills, and Gardens
At 780 acres, Xingqing Palace Park is Xi’an’s largest urban oasis. The heart of the park is Xingqing Lake, a 150-acre waterbody surrounded by lush hills and pavilions. The lake isn’t just for show—it plays a key role in managing floodwater for the southeastern part of the city. You’ll see three small islands dotting the lake, designed to mimic natural landscapes. The park’s layout follows the “northwest high, southeast low” terrain, with rolling hills covered in trees and flowers. It’s like a giant painting, where greenery splashes across the space in a relaxed, artistic way. Walk along the winding paths, and you’ll feel tucked into nature, even though you’re in the city.
Cultural Highlights: Tang Dynasty Vibes
This park isn’t just about pretty views—it’s packed with history. Built in 1958 on the ruins of the Tang Dynasty’s Xingqing Palace, it keeps the spirit of ancient China alive. Stroll around, and you’ll spot recreated Tang-style buildings like Shen Xiang Pavilion, Hua E Xiang Hui Tower, and Nan Luoxuan Hall. These structures aren’t copy-pasted from textbooks; they’re designed with modern twists but inspired by唐代 (Tang Dynasty) architecture. One cool spot is the Japanese Envoy Abe Nakamaro Memorial, honoring a Japanese scholar who studied in China during the Tang era. It’s a reminder of how Xi’an was a global hub back then.
Things to Do: More Than Just Walking
The park is perfect for a full day out. Start by renting a boat on Xingqing Lake—it’s a calm way to see the sights. Families will love the playgrounds and open grassy areas. Fitness buffs can jog along the 5km loop trail, while photographers will snap endless shots of the bridges, pagodas, and flower beds. In spring, cherry blossoms and lotus flowers add bursts of color. Don’t miss the Three-Eight Forest, a grove planted in 1938 to honor women’s contributions—it’s a peaceful spot for picnics.
Practical Tips: Dining, Rest, and More
Xingqing Palace Park is a breeze to visit. Entrance is free, and it’s open daily from early morning till night. Bring comfy shoes—there’s a lot to explore! The park has clean restrooms, snack stands selling local treats like roujiamo (Chinese burgers) and bing sugar cakes, and shaded benches for resting. On hot days, head to the lakeside café for ice tea. If you visit on weekends, join locals practicing tai chi or dancing—it’s part of the experience!
A Day in the Park: My Visit
I arrived at dawn, when the mist hung over the lake and the air smelled piney. Joggers zipped past me, and elderly couples practiced calligraphy on slate boards. By midday, families crowded the playgrounds, and dragon boat races buzzed across the lake. At sunset, the pavilions glowed golden, and lanterns lined the paths. Evening brought live music near the main gate—a mix of traditional Chinese instruments and modern pop. The park felt alive, yet never rushed.
Pro tip: Pair your visit with nearby attractions like the City Wall or Big Wild Goose Pagoda for a full Xi’an adventure. Whether you’re into history, nature, or just chilling, Xingqing Palace Park has something for everyone. Come see why it’s been a Xi’an icon for generations!
