Xingqing Park

Introducing Xingqing Park

Xi'an's Xingqing Palace Park is located north of Xianning West Road outside the city's East Gate, in the former Xingqingfang section of Chang'an City. Covering 780 mu (approximately 16 acres), including 150 mu (approximately 16 acres) of lake surface, it is the largest urban park in Xi'an. Built in 1958 on the site of the Tang Dynasty's Xingqing Palace, the park is a landmark in Xi'an.

From an overall perspective, Xingqing Palace Park is divided into two halves by an east-west dividing wall. The southern half offers the most beautiful gardens. Here, tall buildings such as the Dragon Hall, Changqing Pavilion, Chenxiang Pavilion, Hua'e Xianghui Tower, and Qinzhengwu Ben Building surround the Dragon Pond. Legend has it that the Dragon Pond was once home to a large number of lotus, water chestnut, and various algae-like plants. The south bank also boasts the sobering properties of the herb Sobering Herb. The northern half of Xingqing Palace boasts towering palaces: Nanxiong Hall, Changxing Hall, and Datong Hall.

Xingqing Palace consists of Xingqing Hall, Nanxun Hall, Datong Hall, Qinzhengwu Building, Hua'e Xianghui Building and Chenxiang Pavilion.

Xingqing Palace was the political center of Emperor Xuanzong of Tang's reign and also where he and his beloved concubine Yang Yuhuan lived for a long time. The palace originally had buildings such as Xingqing Hall, Nanxun Hall, Datong Hall, Qinzhengwu Building, Hua'e Xianghui Building and Chenxiang Pavilion.

Climate and best time to travel

It has a warm temperate semi-humid continental monsoon climate with distinct seasons: cold, warm, dry, and wet. Winters are cold, windy, foggy, and with little rain or snow; springs are warm, dry, windy, and changeable; summers are hot and rainy, with a prominent summer drought and frequent thunderstorms and strong winds; and autumns are cool, with a rapid drop in temperature and significant autumn rain.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for one hour

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Most Popular FAQs for Xingqing Park

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

Xingqing Park is one of Xi'an's most popular public parks, known for its historical significance as a former royal garden. It has been a recreational space for locals and visitors for many years, offering a mix of traditional Chinese landscaping and modern park features.

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

Xingqing Park is located in the heart of Xi'an. It is easily accessible by taxi, metro (lines 2 and 3), or bus. The park is within walking distance from major tourist spots like the Xi'an City Wall.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Xingqing Park is open year-round, with the best times to visit being early mornings or late afternoons when the weather is cooler and the park is less crowded.

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

Entrance to Xingqing Park is free of charge, though some attractions, such as boat rentals, may require additional fees. Tickets can be purchased on-site for these specific activities.

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

Booking in advance is not necessary as the park is free to enter, but it's recommended to book boat rentals or special activities ahead of time during peak tourist seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Visitors typically need about 1 to 2 hours to fully explore the park, depending on their interest in walking, photography, and boating.

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

The main highlights include the tranquil lake, the large lotus pond, the scenic walking paths, and the beautiful pavilions scattered throughout the park. The park is also home to cultural performances, which are a must-see in the evenings.

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

Guided tours are not typically offered, but some local guides can be arranged through nearby hotels. Audio guides are not available, but informational signs are in both Chinese and English.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints for photography are around the central lake and the hilltops within the park, where visitors can capture panoramic views of the surrounding gardens and lotus ponds.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main entrance and explore the central lake area. Follow the walking trails around the lotus pond and visit the pavilions for rest. Finish by walking to the hilltop for panoramic views of the park and Xi'an city.

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

Night visits are available, and the park offers occasional light shows and cultural performances, especially during national holidays. It’s a great place to enjoy Xi'an’s nighttime atmosphere.

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

The park can get crowded on weekends and during public holidays. The least crowded times are early mornings or weekday afternoons.

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

The park is equipped with public toilets, water fountains, and rest areas. There are small kiosks selling snacks and drinks, but visitors are encouraged to bring their own water and food if planning to picnic.

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

The park is accessible for elderly visitors and families with children. However, some of the walking paths may be challenging for visitors with mobility issues, as they can be uneven in certain areas.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted in the park for small purchases, but mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are also widely accepted.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local restaurants and cafes within walking distance from the park. These offer a variety of Chinese dishes, including Shaanxi specialties such as Roujiamo (Chinese hamburger) and Liangpi (cold noodles).

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some of the local eateries, especially those serving traditional Chinese vegetarian cuisine. Halal food is also offered at several nearby restaurants catering to Xi'an’s Muslim community.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels near Xingqing Park, ranging from budget accommodations to luxury options. Popular choices include the Grand Park Xi'an Hotel and the Citadines Central Xi'an.

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

Nearby attractions include the Xi'an City Wall, the Bell Tower, the Drum Tower, and the Great Mosque. All of these can be easily visited in a day trip from Xingqing Park.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops near the park selling traditional Chinese items, including silk products, tea sets, calligraphy, and local handicrafts. You can also find small trinkets and postcards to commemorate your visit.

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

The best transportation options to continue your trip are by taxi or using public transport. The park is well-connected to the rest of Xi'an by metro and bus, making it easy to explore other attractions.