Huaqing Pool: The Emperor’s Love Story Hot Spring At

Huaqing Pool: The Emperor’s Love Story Hot Spring At the foot of Lishan Mountain, Huaqing Pool was a favorite retreat of Emperor Xuanzong. He built it for his beloved consort Yang Guifei. Their love story ended tragically, but the hot springs remain. The site includes Tang dynasty bathhouses (stone pools where the emperor and his consort bathed), a modern hot spring where you can dip your feet, and a small museum. The pools themselves are empty now. But the mountain backdrop and the pavilions are beautiful. Most visitors combine Huaqing Pool with the Terracotta Warriors — they’re only 15 minutes apart. Half a day for both is fine. Entry 120 RMB. Metro Line 9 to Huaqingchi Station. Or hire a private car for the day from Xi’an. After visiting, take the cable car up Lishan for a view of the entire site.