Huaqingchi Hot Springs became famous as early as 723, during the Tang Dynasty, the period of the country's highest power under Emperor Xuanzong. The Imperial Baths were built in a warm climate zone, with beautiful mountain views, 25 kilometres from Xi'an, the western capital of the Tang Dynasty, as part of the Huaqingchi Palace. They became one of the emperor's favourite holiday destinations.
The water temperature of the powerful spring stream reaches 43 degrees centigrade. The local water has healing properties as it is saturated with minerals - iron, copper, zinc, manganese, fluorine and 40 other elements.
After passing through the main gate and pools, one can come to the Nine Dragons Lake. One of the most beautiful views appears before the eyes of tourists: a white marble statue of Yang Guifei one of the four most beautiful women of ancient China, lotuses exuding a delicate fragrance. Yichun, Chenxiang and Feishuang halls are reflected in the water.
Walking south, you can see the unique Imperial Pool. There are five other unusual pools here. The Lotus Pool is actually shaped like this flower and was reserved for the emperor; the Haitang Pool, used for concubines; the Shanshi Pool, provided for officials; and the Star Open Pool, which has no walls or ceiling.
One of the most famous and tragic love stories in Chinese history is associated with this place. Emperor Xuanzong began avoiding affairs of state, which may have been due to his ardent love for his concubine Yang Guifei. Some called her the Emperor's Favourite Consort. The commander of the army stationed in the north mutinied. The country spent seven whole years in a bloody war. At the end of the confrontation, the Emperor's army was ruthlessly destroyed. The emperor fled with the Precious Consort and a small cavalry escort. The arduous journey turned into a nightmare. The emperor's escort rebelled. The rebels insisted on killing the Precious Mistress, who was hated for her power over the emperor and blamed for the defeat. Xuanzong ordered the chief eunuch to strangle her. This historical episode has inspired poets, artists and playwrights.
It is also famous for events of our time: the forced arrest of President Chiang Kaishi by his generals, who demanded an end to civil strife and unification with the Chinese Communist Party during the war between the Republic of China and the Empire of Japan.
This place is also famous for events of our time: the forced arrest of President Chiang Kaishi by his generals, who demanded an end to civil strife and unification with the Chinese Communist Party during the war between the Republic of China and the Japanese Empire.
