Jianling Mausoleum of Emperor Yizong of Tang

What are the most recommended things to do in Jianling Mausoleum of Emperor Yizong of Tang?

  • Explore the Jianling Mausoleum grounds and admire Tang Dynasty architecture and layout.
  • View the emperor’s tomb and historical stone carvings along the approach path.
  • Learn about Emperor Yizong of Tang and Tang Dynasty history through onsite information boards.
  • Photography of the mausoleum, stone statues, and scenic surrounding landscape.
  • Walk through the forested hills around the mausoleum for a serene experience.

Introducing the Jianling Mausoleum of Emperor Yizong of Tang

The Jianling Mausoleum of Emperor Yizong is located on Zijin Mountain (also known as Hutou Mountain) in Shanxi Village, Zhuangli Town, 30 kilometers northwest of Fuping County, Weinan City, Shaanxi Province. Emperor Yizong's mausoleum is located at the foot of the main peak. Emperor Yizong of the Tang Dynasty, Li Yu (833-873 AD), died of illness in July of the 14th year of Xiantong (873 AD) and was buried in Jianling Mausoleum in February of the first year of Qianfu (874 AD). [1] Temple name: Emperor Yizong, posthumous title: Emperor Zhaosheng Gongxiao. On August 6, 1956, the Shaanxi Provincial People's Government announced it as the first batch of key cultural relics protection units in Shaanxi Province.

Although Jianling was built on a mountain, its construction coincided with the outbreak of the late Tang Dynasty peasant uprisings, which had already plunged society into chaos. Furthermore, Emperor Yizong's reign was characterized by excessive spending and rewards, and years of rebellion in Yunnan and Guizhou, which, after repeated suppression, exhausted the nation's resources. Consequently, Jianling's construction was relatively crude and simple. The Jianling Palace was carved into the southern foot of the middle peak of Purple Mountain. The mausoleum's walls, built along the mountain, are roughly square in plan. Each of the four inner city gates, facing the mountain, is named after one of the four deities. A pair of stone lions stands outside each gate, along with double rammed-stone towers.

Climate and best time to travel

The subtropical monsoon climate makes it suitable for travel in all four seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Jianling Mausoleum is nestled in a mountainside. The outer que sites of the East and West Shenmen gates are located on a mountain, with peaks at altitudes of 814 and 883 meters, respectively. The outer que site of the North Shenmen gate, located on Shimaling, is relatively flat and open, at an altitude of over 1,000 meters. The straight-line distance between the North and South Shenmen gates and the East and West Shenmen gates is approximately 2,100 meters. The gate lions of Jianling are similar in style to those of Zhuangling Mausoleum. The stone lions on the west side of the South Gate are 140 cm tall and 120 cm wide.

It is recommended to play for about 3 hours.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Open all day


Most Popular FAQs for Jianling Mausoleum of Emperor Yizong of Tang

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Jianling Mausoleum is the burial site of Emperor Yizong of the Tang Dynasty, located in Tongchuan, Shaanxi. It is historically significant as part of the Tang imperial tomb system, reflecting Tang Dynasty funerary architecture and royal customs.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The mausoleum is located in Tongchuan, Shaanxi Province. Visitors can reach it by taxi or private car from Tongchuan city center. Public buses may serve nearby areas, but walking is required from the closest drop-off points to the mausoleum.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Opening hours are typically from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Spring and autumn are ideal for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Tickets generally cost around 40–60 RMB. Tickets can be purchased onsite; some local tourism websites may offer online booking options.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Advance booking is not required for individual visitors. Group tours may benefit from booking a few days in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Around 2–3 hours are recommended to explore the mausoleum, stone carvings, and surrounding landscapes at a leisurely pace.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • Main tomb mound of Emperor Yizong of Tang.
  • Stone statues of officials, animals, and mythical creatures lining the spirit way.
  • Historical inscriptions and carvings.
  • Forested surrounding hills and scenic viewpoints.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are usually available in Chinese. Audio guides or English-language explanations are limited; private guides may provide English commentary.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Spirit way lined with stone statues for historical and scenic photography.
  • Top of hills or terraces overlooking the tomb and surrounding forests.
  • Close-up shots of stone carvings and inscriptions.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main entrance, walk along the spirit way to view the stone statues, reach the main tomb mound, then explore surrounding hills and viewpoints before returning.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are generally not allowed. There are no regular light shows; the site is primarily a historical and cultural daytime destination.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Weekdays and early mornings are least crowded. Public holidays may attract local tourists and school groups.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

  • Basic toilets near the entrance.
  • Limited food or drink stalls; bring water if needed.
  • Benches and rest areas along walking paths.
  • Small souvenir shop may be present at the entrance.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Some walking paths may be uneven; elderly visitors and children should take care. Wheelchair access is limited due to terrain and steps.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is widely accepted for tickets and small purchases. Mobile payments like WeChat Pay or Alipay may also be accepted at the ticket office and souvenir shop.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Restaurants and small eateries are available near the entrance and in nearby Tongchuan city areas, offering local Shaanxi cuisine.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available in some local restaurants. Halal options are limited but may be found in Tongchuan city center.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Hotels and guesthouses are available in Tongchuan city, approximately 10–20 minutes by car from the mausoleum.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • Famen Temple
  • Qiaoling Mausoleum
  • Tongchuan city cultural sites

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenirs include replicas of Tang Dynasty artifacts, postcards, keychains, and small historical crafts.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Taxis or rideshare services are convenient for traveling to nearby attractions. Private cars or guided tours are recommended for a full day trip around Tongchuan historical sites.