Description of the attraction
Huaqingchi hot springs became known as early as 723, during the reign of the Tang dynasty - the period of the country's highest power under the rule of Emperor Xuanzong. The imperial baths were built in a warm climatic zone, with beautiful mountain views, 25 km from Xi'an, the western capital of the Tang Dynasty, as part of the Huaqingchi Palace. They became one of the favorite resting places of the emperor.
The water temperature of the powerful stream of the source reaches 43 degrees Celsius. The local water has medicinal properties, as it is saturated with minerals - iron, copper, zinc, manganese, fluorine and 40 other elements.
After passing the main gates and pools, you can go to the lake of Nine Dragons. 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 scent. The halls of Yichun, Chkhenxiang and Feishuang are reflected in the water.
Going south, you can see the unique imperial pool. There are five more unusual pools here. The Lotus Basin does indeed have the shape of this flower, it was meant for the emperor; the Khaitan pool, used for concubines; the Shangshi pool, provided to officials; and the Starry Outdoor Pool, which has no walls or ceilings.
One of the most famous and tragic love stories in Chinese history is associated with this place. Emperor Xuanzong began to avoid state affairs, which may have been caused by his ardent love for his concubine Yang Guifei. Some called her the Emperor's Beloved Consort. The commander of the army in the north revolted. 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 difficult journey turned into a nightmare. The emperor's escort rebelled. The rebels insisted on killing the Precious Lady, whom they hated for her power over the emperor and blamed for her defeat. Xuanzong ordered the chief eunuch to strangle her. This historical episode has served as a source of inspiration for poets, artists and playwrights.
This place is also famous for the events of our time: the forced arrest of President Chiang Kai-shek 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.
