Hike Tang Imperial Tombs: Qianling, Jianling, and Zhaoling

Set out on a captivating journey through the Tang Imperial Tombs, where the majestic Qianling, Jianling, and Zhaoling Mausoleums stand as testaments to the grandeur of the Tang Dynasty. This private guided tour offers a chance to hike along the Sacred Way, taking in stunning vistas as you explore the rich history and architectural marvels that shaped the era. Prepare to be immersed in a world of intricately carved stone sculptures and the legacies of influential rulers interred within these hallowed grounds.

Key Points

• Explore the colossal stone sculptures and burial sites of influential Tang Dynasty rulers, including Emperor Gaozong and Empress Wu Zetian, at the Qianling Mausoleum.
• Hike Mount Liangshan (elevation 1048 meters) to enjoy panoramic views during the Qianling Mausoleum visit.
• Discover the intricate stone statues and the resting place of Emperor Suzong at the Jianling Mausoleum.
• Observe the well-preserved carvings and sculptures, including six stone horse reliefs, at the Zhaoling Mausoleum, the burial site of Emperor Taizong.
• Enjoy a one-hour lunch break between the tomb visits, with the guide suggesting local food options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour offers a private guided exploration of the impressive Tang Dynasty imperial tombs, including Qianling, Jianling, and Zhaoling.

Experience a private guided exploration of the impressive Tang Dynasty imperial tombs, including Qianling, Jianling, and Zhaoling.

Priced from $180.26 per person, the 10-hour tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking expert guide, transportation by private vehicle, bottled water, and admission tickets.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Guests can also opt for the reserve now & pay later option.

The tour covers the key highlights of each mausoleum, allowing visitors to enjoy the rich history and architecture of these significant Tang Dynasty sites.

Itinerary and Highlights

Qianling Mausoleum kicks off the 10-hour excursion, where visitors embark on an 80 km, 90-minute transfer from their hotel to the colossal stone sculptures and burial site of Emperor Gaozong and Empress Wu Zetian.

Hikers then tackle Mount Liangshan via the Sacred Way.

After a lunch break, the tour proceeds to Jianling Mausoleum, final resting place of Emperor Suzong, renowned for its 36 intricate stone statues.

The day concludes at Zhaoling Mausoleum, the burial site of Emperor Taizong, famous for its six stone horse reliefs, two of which were sold to the University of Pennsylvania in 1920.

Qianling Mausoleum

As the first stop on the 10-hour excursion, visitors embark on an 80 km, 90-minute transfer from their hotel to Qianling Mausoleum, where they can explore the colossal stone sculptures and burial site of Emperor Gaozong and Empress Wu Zetian.

The tour includes:

1. Hiking Mount Liangshan (elevation 1048 meters) via the Sacred Way, offering panoramic views.

2. Examining the intricate carvings and architectural details of the mausoleum.

3. Learning about the historical significance of Qianling as the resting place of two influential Tang Dynasty rulers.

Lunch Break

After exploring the Qianling Mausoleum, the tour participants have a lunch break from 12:00 to 13:00.

Lunch isn’t included in the tour price, but the guide can suggest local food options. The tour company can accommodate special dietary needs with advance notice.

During this break, guests are free to explore the nearby area and try authentic Chinese cuisine.

With the lunch break, guests can explore the nearby area and savor authentic Chinese cuisine.

With an hour set aside, there’s ample time to enjoy a relaxing meal before continuing the tour to the next imperial tomb site, Jianling Mausoleum.

More Great Tours Nearby

Jianling Mausoleum

Following the exploration of the Qianling Mausoleum, the tour moves on to the Jianling Mausoleum, the final resting place of Emperor Suzong.

The mausoleum is known for:

1. Its 36 intricate stone statues along the Sacred Way.

2. Well-preserved stone carvings depicting the history and culture of the Tang Dynasty.

3. Visitors can admire the architectural and artistic achievements of the period.

After the in-depth visit, the tour continues to the Zhaoling Mausoleum, the burial site of Emperor Taizong, to explore its renowned stone horse reliefs.

Zhaoling Mausoleum

The tour then continues on to the Zhaoling Mausoleum, the burial site of Emperor Taizong.

Renowned for its six stone horse reliefs, this mausoleum boasts a noteworthy history – two of the reliefs were sold to the University of Pennsylvania for $125,000 in 1920.

Visitors can explore the well-preserved carvings and sculptures along the Sacred Way leading to the tomb.

The guide shares the stories behind the intricate details, providing insights into the history and significance of this imperial resting place.

The tour then wraps up with the transfer back to the hotel, concluding the day’s exploration of the Tang Dynasty’s grand tombs.

Return to Hotel

The transfer back to the hotel wraps up the day’s exploration of the Tang Dynasty‘s grand tombs.

The approximately 76 km, 1.5-hour journey takes visitors back to their accommodations within the 3rd Ring Zone of Xi’an City.

Along the way, the expert guide can:

1. Recap the day’s highlights and key takeaways from the visits to Qianling, Jianling, and Zhaoling.

2. Offer recommendations for nearby restaurants or other attractions to explore in Xi’an.

3. Answer any final questions travelers may have about the tombs or their cultural significance.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking expert guide, private transportation, bottled water, and admission tickets.

However, meals (lunch and dinner) and personal expenses aren’t included. Gratuities for the guide are also not covered.

Pickup is within the 3rd Ring Zone of Xi’an City, and guests should wait in the hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time. A sign with the guest’s name will be held by the guide.

Door-to-door transfer may not be available for Airbnb accommodations. Guests should bring their passport or ID card for identification purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Extend the Tour Duration at an Additional Cost?

Yes, you can extend the tour duration at an additional cost. The tour provider offers flexible options to customize the experience per your preferences and needs, subject to availability and any applicable fees.

Can I Request a Private Vehicle Instead of a Shared One?

Yes, you can request a private vehicle for this tour. The private vehicle option is available at an additional cost. To arrange this, simply inform the tour operator when booking your tour.

Do You Offer Discounts for Senior Citizens or Students?

Yes, the tour provider offers discounts for senior citizens and students. Seniors receive a 10% discount, while students get 15% off the standard tour price with valid identification presented upon booking.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Visit Additional Sites?

Yes, the tour can be customized to include additional sites. Guests can work with the tour company to modify the itinerary based on their interests and needs, subject to availability and additional costs.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography at the Tombs?

Photography is generally allowed at the tombs, but visitors should check with the guide for any restrictions. Flash photography and tripods may be prohibited in certain areas to preserve the historical sites.

The Sum Up

This captivating tour through the Tang Imperial Tombs offers an unparalleled glimpse into China’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors will marvel at the architectural wonders of the Qianling, Jianling, and Zhaoling Mausoleums, while savoring local cuisine and scenic hikes along the Sacred Way. It’s an unforgettable experience that immerses travelers in the grandeur and history of the Tang Dynasty.

You can check availability for your dates here: