Hike Tang Imperial Tombs: Qianling, Jianling, and Zhaoling

Exploring the grandeur of the Tang Dynasty‘s imperial tombs is a captivating journey through China’s rich cultural heritage. This private guided tour takes visitors to the awe-inspiring Qianling, Jianling, and Zhaoling Mausoleums, showcasing the architectural marvels and funerary practices of the era. From the intricate carvings and stone sculptures at Qianling to the exquisite statues of Jianling and the historical significance of Zhaoling’s stone horse reliefs, this immersive experience promises to transport you back in time and unveil the artistry and engineering prowess that defined the Tang Dynasty. Prepare to be enchanted by the seamless blend of history, architecture, and cultural significance.

Good To Know

• Tour highlights the architecture, sculptures, and historical significance of three iconic Tang Dynasty imperial tombs: Qianling, Jianling, and Zhaoling.
• Guided exploration of the tombs provides insights into the funerary practices and engineering feats of the Tang Dynasty era.
• Visitors can marvel at the intricate stone carvings, Feng Shui elements, and imperial figures depicted at each mausoleum site.
• Tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, expert English-speaking guide, and all admission tickets, with flexibility for special dietary needs.
• Comprehensive cultural heritage experience showcasing the artistic and engineering accomplishments of the Tang Dynasty in China.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Details

This private guided tour offers visitors a chance to explore the captivating imperial tombs of the Tang Dynasty.

Priced from $186.74 per person, the tour lasts 10 hours and includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Xi’an’s 3rd Ring Zone.

Participants can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and there’s no upfront payment required.

The itinerary covers the iconic Qianling, Jianling, and Zhaoling mausoleums, showcasing their impressive stone sculptures and historical significance.

Guests will have the opportunity to marvel at the grandeur of these sites, led by an English-speaking expert guide.

Bottled water and admission tickets are included, while meals and personal expenses are excluded.

Itinerary and Activities

The tour begins with hotel pickup at 8:30 AM, followed by a 90-minute transfer to the Qianling Mausoleum, located 80 km from the city.

Guests will explore the mausoleum from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, marveling at the stone sculptures and the burial site of two Tang emperors.

After a lunch break, the group will visit Jianling Mausoleum from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, known for its intricate stone statues.

The final stop is Zhaoling Mausoleum from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM, famous for its six renowned stone horse reliefs.

The tour wraps up with a 1.5-hour transfer back to the hotel, arriving around 6:30 PM.

Highlights of the Tour

Marveling at the grandeur of Qianling’s intricate carvings and stone sculptures, guests will gain invaluable insights into the layout and design of Tang Dynasty imperial tombs.

The tour also showcases the:

1. Exquisite stone statues at Jianling, the burial site of Emperor Suzong.
2. Feng Shui representation at Zhaoling, the resting place of Emperor Taizong.
3. Six renowned stone horse reliefs at Zhaoling, holding historical significance.
4. Comprehensive field study on the architectural elements and funerary practices of the Tang imperial era.

Taking in this cultural heritage experience provides a unique window into the past, allowing visitors to deeply appreciate the artistry and engineering prowess of the Tang Dynasty.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking expert guide, private air-conditioned vehicle transport, bottled water, and admission tickets.

Meals, such as lunch and dinner, aren’t included. Participants will need to cover their personal expenses and provide gratuities for the guide and driver.

It’s important to notify the guide in advance about any special dietary needs. Visitors should bring their passport or ID card and wait in the hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time, as the guide will be holding a sign with the participant’s name.

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Important Information

Participants should bring their passport or ID card to the tour.

Notify the guide of any special dietary needs in advance so they can accommodate you.

Participants should wait in the hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time, with the guide holding a sign with their name.

The tour includes:

1. Hotel pickup and drop-off
2. An English-speaking expert guide
3. Private air-conditioned vehicle transport
4. Bottled water and admission tickets

Qianling Mausoleum Exploration

At 10:00 AM, the tour group arrives at the Qianling Mausoleum, the grand burial site of two Tang Dynasty emperors, Gaozong and Wu Zetian.

The guide leads them through the impressive stone sculptures and architectural features that adorn this imperial tomb. Visitors marvel at the sheer scale and intricate carvings that showcase the power and wealth of the Tang Dynasty.

The group spends two hours exploring the various halls, courtyards, and underground chambers, gaining insights into the layout and design of Tang imperial tombs.

They learn about the significance of the burial site and the historical importance of the emperors laid to rest here.

Jianling Mausoleum Exploration

After exploring the grandeur of Qianling Mausoleum, the group moves on to the next stop – Jianling Mausoleum, the burial site of Emperor Suzong.

Here, they’ll marvel at the intricate stone statues and carvings that adorn the site. The Jianling Mausoleum is known for:

1. Exquisite stone sculptures depicting imperial figures and court attendants.
2. Detailed carvings showcasing the opulent design and architectural elements of the Tang Dynasty.
3. Impressive scale and layout of the tomb complex, offering insights into the burial practices of ancient Chinese emperors.
4. Historical significance as the resting place of Emperor Suzong, a crucial figure during the An Lushan Rebellion.

Exploring Jianling provides a deeper understanding of the artistic and cultural legacy of the Tang Dynasty.

Zhaoling Mausoleum Exploration

Following the exploration of Jianling Mausoleum, the group now turns its attention to the awe-inspiring Zhaoling Mausoleum.

Home to the burial site of Emperor Taizong, Zhaoling is renowned for its six stone horse reliefs, which hold great historical significance. Guests will have the opportunity to marvel at the intricate Fengshui representation that’s masterfully incorporated into the mausoleum’s design.

Over the course of two hours, the group will explore the captivating history and architectural wonders of this site, gaining a deeper understanding of the Tang Dynasty’s imperial legacy.

The impressive stone carvings and carefully curated layout are sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Purchase Souvenirs at the Tomb Sites?

Yes, visitors can purchase souvenirs at the tomb sites. The tour includes stops at gift shops where you can find a variety of items related to the Tang Dynasty imperial history and culture.

Are There Any Wheelchair-Accessible Facilities at the Tombs?

The tour provider notes that the mausoleums have limited wheelchair-accessible areas. Visitors with mobility issues should consult the guide in advance to determine the best way to navigate the uneven terrain and steps at these historic sites.

What Is the Dress Code for Visiting the Tombs?

The tour operator recommends visitors wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and shoes, as the tombs involve walking on uneven terrain. There’s no strict dress code, but visitors should dress respectfully when visiting these historical sites.

Can I Take Photographs Inside the Tombs?

Visitors are generally allowed to take photographs inside the tombs, but they should avoid using flash to preserve the delicate artifacts. Check with the tour guide for any specific photography restrictions at each site.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended for an additional fee. Clients can discuss extending the tour with the guide to explore the sites in more depth or add additional destinations.

The Sum Up

Explore the grandeur of the Tang Dynasty’s imperial tombs on this captivating guided tour. Discover the intricate carvings, exquisite statues, and historical significance of the Qianling, Jianling, and Zhaoling Mausoleums. This immersive experience offers insights into the architectural marvels and funerary practices of ancient China, showcasing the artistry and engineering prowess of the Tang era.

You can check availability for your dates here: