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Xianyang, a prefecture-level city in Shaanxi Province, lies in the heart of the 800-li Qinchuan Plain. With the Wei River flowing through it to the south and Mount Wei stretching to the north, the city is known as Xianyang. This region witnessed the most magnificent and glorious periods of Chinese history during the Qin, Han, and Tang dynasties.
In Xianyang, you can feel the ancient charm of the Qin Dynasty. Han and Tang tombs stretch for hundreds of miles along the banks of the Wei River, creating a spectacular scene: "No one is seen by the Wei River Bridge, while one caresses the high tombs of a sleeping unicorn." The Changling Mausoleum of Emperor Gaozu of Han, Liu Bang, stands across the water from the magnificent Changle Palace and Weiyang Palace; the unique Yangling Mausoleum of Emperor Jing of Han, Liu Qi, complements the tranquil rural scenery; the vast Maoling Mausoleum of Emperor Wu of Han, Liu Che, boasts numerous accompanying tombs; the most famous tombstone is the stone carving of Huo Qubing; and there are also the world-renowned Zhaoling Mausoleum of Emperor Taizong of Tang and the Qianling Mausoleum of Emperor Gaozong of Tang and Empress Wu Zetian...
Xianyang was the capital of the Qin Dynasty (221–206 BC), making it historically significant as the political and cultural center during the unification of China. It also contains several archaeological sites, including imperial tombs and relics of ancient governance and culture.
Xianyang is located northwest of Xi’an in Shaanxi Province. It can be reached via taxi, long-distance bus from Xi’an, or by train through Xianyang Railway Station. Within the city, taxis and local buses are convenient for getting to attractions.
Museums and heritage sites are generally open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is spring or autumn for mild weather and fewer crowds.
For popular sites like Han Yang Ling Mausoleum, booking 1–2 days in advance is recommended, especially during holidays or weekends.
Half a day to one full day for the main historical and cultural sites. More time may be needed if visiting multiple museums and mausoleums.
Guided tours are available in Chinese and English. Some major sites offer audio guides in English, Chinese, and occasionally Japanese or Korean.
Start at Xianyang Museum, proceed to Han Yang Ling Mausoleum, visit the Tomb of Emperor Wen of Han, and finish by exploring local streets for food and shopping.
Most sites close by early evening. Some festivals or special events may feature evening tours or illumination, but these are occasional.
Weekends and public holidays are busy. Weekday mornings are the least crowded and best for quiet exploration.
Public toilets, snack kiosks, rest areas, and small souvenir shops are available at major tourist sites. Restaurants are accessible nearby.
Main museums and mausoleum sites are mostly accessible, though some outdoor archaeological areas may require walking on uneven paths.
Both cash and mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are accepted at most sites and shops; credit cards may be accepted in larger establishments.
Local restaurants offer Shaanxi cuisine, including noodles, dumplings, and roast lamb. Cafes and tea houses are also available around museums and city center areas.
Halal options are widely available due to Hui communities; vegetarian and vegan options are available in some restaurants and street food stalls.
Hotels range from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels near Xianyang city center, with easy access to museums and mausoleums.
Souvenirs include replicas of terracotta figures, traditional handicrafts, calligraphy items, and local snacks.
Taxis, local buses, and high-speed trains from Xianyang Railway Station allow travelers to continue to Xi’an, nearby historical sites, or other cities in Shaanxi Province.
