Lintong
Home to the Terracotta Army and Huaqing Palace
Lintong at a Glance
Everything you need to know before you go.
Lintong is a district of Xi'an, renowned for the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Terracotta Army and the historic Huaqing Palace with its hot springs. Located at the foot of Mount Li, it offers a blend of ancient imperial history and natural scenery. Visitors can explore the mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor and enjoy the scenic beauty of Mount Li. The area is easily accessible from Xi'an city center and makes for a rewarding day trip or overnight stay.
Where to Stay
Choose the neighborhood that fits your style.
Lintong Downtown
The main urban area of Lintong offers a range of hotels and local restaurants, with convenient access to public transportation and shopping. It is a practical base for exploring the region's attractions.
Best for convenient access to dining, shopping, and transport linksNear Terracotta Army & Huaqing Palace
Staying close to the main historical sites allows for early visits and a quieter atmosphere. Several hotels and guesthouses in this area cater to tourists and offer easy access to the Terracotta Army Museum and Huaqing Palace.
Best for history enthusiasts and early access to major attractionsLintong Highlights
The city's essential experiences, grouped by what you love most.
UNESCO-listed army of thousands of life-sized clay soldiers guarding the tomb of China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang.
The massive burial mound of Qin Shi Huang, largely unexcavated and surrounded by legendary treasures and mysteries.
Imperial hot spring palace dating from the Tang Dynasty, famous for the romance between Emperor Xuanzong and Yang Guifei.
Forested mountain offering panoramic views, ancient temples, and hiking trails above the Lintong district.
Protected scenic area on Mount Li with lush vegetation, walking paths, and historical pavilions.
Natural mineral-rich hot springs that have drawn emperors and visitors for centuries, now part of Huaqing Palace complex.
Historic site of the 206 BC banquet where Xiang Yu and Liu Bang's rivalry shaped the early Han Dynasty.
Local museum displaying artifacts and relics from the Qin, Han, and Tang dynasties found in the Lintong area.
Evening performance at Huaqing Palace recreating Tang court music, dance, and the famous love story with lights and water effects.
Best Time to Visit
Each season offers a different side of the city.
Spring · Mar–May
Mild weather and blooming landscapes — comfortable for exploring.
Summer · Jun–Aug
Warm days; highland areas stay cool while lowland cities get hot and humid.
Autumn · Sep–Nov
The best season in most of China — crisp air, clear skies, and golden light.
Winter · Dec–Feb
Cold in the north, mild in the south. Fewer crowds and lower prices outside holidays.
Suggested Itineraries
Three carefully-paced plans for your trip.
1-Day Express
Start at the Terracotta Army Museum, one of the world's most significant archaeological finds, to explore the life-size warriors and horses guarding Emperor Qin Shi Huang's mausoleum. In the afternoon, visit the Huaqing Palace, a Tang Dynasty hot spring resort with historical sites including the site of the Xi'an Incident. End the day with a short walk at the foot of Mount Li.
2-Day Classic
Day 1: Explore the Terracotta Army and the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor in depth. Day 2: Visit Huaqing Palace and ascend Mount Li by cable car for panoramic views and the historic beacon tower, then relax in the hot spring area.
Local Tips
Insider knowledge for a smoother trip.
Take a public bus, taxi, or guided tour from Xi'an; the journey takes about 30-40 km east.
Book online in advance to avoid long queues, especially during holidays and weekends.
Combine your visit with the hot springs or watch the famous evening performance.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring water; the panoramic views from the top are worth the climb.
Spring and autumn offer mild weather; summer can be hot and crowded, so plan accordingly.
FAQs About Lintong
Quick answers to common questions.
Ready to Explore Lintong?
Let MagicTrip build the perfect Lintong itinerary — tailored to your interests, pace, and budget.