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Yuquanyuan is a beautiful park perfect for relaxing, walking, and enjoying nature. Visitors can explore the lush landscapes, view traditional Chinese gardens, and enjoy cultural activities like tea ceremonies. It's a great spot for photography, especially in the spring when the flowers are in full bloom.
Yuquanyuan, located at the foot of Mount Hua, is a major site for Taoist activities and a must-see for tourists visiting the mountain from Huashan Valley. Legend has it that the Taoist master Chen Tuan once played chess with Zhao Kuangyin on Mount Huashan. Zhao Kuangyin lost the mountain to Chen Tuan and exempted him from taxes. Since then, many Taoists have come here to practice their skills. The 72 semi-hanging caves on Mount Huashan are the places where these Taoists practiced.
Yuquanyuan is a garden complex nestled against the backdrop of Mount Hua and surrounded by towering ancient trees. Within the courtyard lies a spring, its waters sweet and clear. Legend has it that during the Tang Dynasty, Princess Jinxian was washing her hair in the Jade Well at Zhenyue Palace on the mountain when she accidentally dropped a jade hairpin into the water. Returning to Yuquanyuan, she accidentally found the hairpin while washing her hands in the spring water. Recognizing that this spring was the same as the Jade Well, she named it Yuquan, hence the name Yuquanyuan.
Within Yuquanyuan lies the Xiyi Shrine, named after the title "Master Xiyi" bestowed upon Chen Tuan by Emperor Taizong of Song. The shrine consists of two halls: the front and back halls. To the left of the front hall stands the "Complete Map of Mount Hua" stele, and to the right is a stone tablet inscribed with the words "First Mountain" by Song Dynasty calligrapher Mi Fu. A statue of Chen Tuan stands in the back hall. The Shansun Pavilion, built on a large rock, is where Chen Tuan is said to have often admired the mountain scenery and composed his works. Beside the pavilion stands an ancient tree, known as the Worry-Free Tree, said to have been planted by Chen Tuan. The back hall is the primary venue for Taoist activities at Mount Hua. Over the door hangs a plaque inscribed by Empress Dowager Cixi: "The Dao is Respected, Pure, and Wonderful." In the center stands the "Itchy Tree," which, when touched, causes the entire tree to tremble.
The warm temperate continental monsoon climate is suitable for travel in all four seasons.
Quanzhen Temple: Located west of Yuquanyuan, this cave, also known as Chaoyuan Cave, was the place where Taoist He Zhizhen cultivated his character in the early Yuan Dynasty. He carved caves along the Huashan Valley, even carving on precarious cliffs rarely visited by birds or monkeys, climbing vines and hanging from the air as he continued to carve.
It is recommended to play for about 3 hours.
free
7:00-18:00
Yuquanyuan is a historic garden known for its beautiful landscaping and cultural significance. It is a place where visitors can experience the traditional Chinese art of gardening and relaxation. The park also serves as a cultural center for local festivals and events.
Yuquanyuan is located in Huayin, Shaanxi, China. You can reach it by taxi or bus from the city center of Huayin. It is also accessible by walking from nearby attractions within the city.
The park is open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM. The best times to visit are in the spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and the gardens are at their most beautiful.
The entrance fee for Yuquanyuan is approximately ¥30-¥50. Tickets can be bought on-site, and it is advised to check if there are any online purchasing options through local tourism websites.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory but may be useful during peak tourist seasons or holidays. It’s recommended to book at least a day or two in advance during busy times.
Exploring Yuquanyuan will typically take around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on how much time you spend in the gardens and enjoying the surroundings.
The must-see highlights include the central garden area, the traditional Chinese architectural features, and the tea house. The seasonal flower displays, particularly during spring, are also a highlight for many visitors.
Guided tours in Mandarin are available, and some areas may offer audio guides in English and Chinese. It’s best to check with the visitor center upon arrival.
Best photography spots include the central pond surrounded by flowers, the traditional pagodas, and the scenic pathways leading through the gardens. Early morning or late afternoon light provides the best conditions for photography.
Start by walking through the main entrance, then explore the central garden area. Afterward, visit the tea house and surrounding areas. Take time to enjoy the seasonal flower exhibits along the way.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Yuquanyuan. The best experience is during the day when the gardens and natural beauty are most visible.
Yuquanyuan can get crowded on weekends and holidays, especially during the spring flower season. Weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, are the least crowded times to visit.
There are rest areas and toilets within the park. Small snack shops and drinking water are available, and there are some traditional Chinese tea shops where visitors can relax.
Most areas of the park are accessible, though some pathways may be uneven. There are rest areas for visitors who need a break, but elderly or disabled visitors should check in advance for the most accessible routes.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used. Credit cards may not be accepted at all places, so it’s a good idea to carry some cash.
There are small cafes and restaurants near the entrance and within the park offering traditional Shaanxi cuisine. For a wider variety, you can visit the nearby city center of Huayin.
Vegetarian options are available in local restaurants, although halal food may be limited. It is advisable to ask the staff if you have specific dietary requirements.
There are several guesthouses and mid-range hotels near the park. For more luxurious accommodation, visitors can consider staying in Huayin city center.
Nearby attractions include the famous Mount Hua (Huashan), which is easily accessible for a day trip from Yuquanyuan. The Mount Hua Scenic Area offers hiking, temples, and breathtaking views.
There are small souvenir shops selling local crafts, including Shaanxi-style pottery, tea, and traditional Chinese artworks. You can also find herbal products and locally made clothing.
After visiting, taxis and buses are the most convenient way to continue your trip. If you’re heading to Mount Hua or other nearby areas, a local taxi or tour bus can take you there.
