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 Huaqing Hot Spring is situated about 25 km away in the northeast of Xian. It used to be a former winter resort for emperors. Its natural beauty and many historical episodes connected with this spot are the attractions. Emperor You of Western Zhou Dynasty (8th BC) was the first developer of the place, and he built a palace here. Emperors of following 11 dynasties made it as their resort as well.
The spot didn't gain national reputation until 747, when Emperor Xuan Zang (685-762, reigned 712-756) of the Tang Dynasty extended the palaces and built Huaqing Hot Pool for him and his concubine Yang Guifei, using water from the natural hot spring, hence the name Huaqing Hot Spring.
.jpg) The resort is located at the foot of the Mount Lishan. The springs were founded 3,000 years ago. They have a voluminous, regular flow and a constant temperature of around 43 degree Celsius (109.4 F). The water contains various minerals, which makes it suitable for medication and bathing as well.
At present, Huaqing Hot Spring is a recreational center open to public, with all the old imperial halls and pavilions renovated. Over a hundred new bathing pools have been added to accommodate more people at a time. |
