Quick Answer: Qianling Mausoleum is located in Yanta District, 80km northwest of Xi'an. Open daily 08:00-18:00. Tickets ¥75 (includes Qianling and two subsidiary tombs). Take Tourist bus from Xi'an, or day tour recommended. Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours. Final resting place of Emperor Gaozong and Empress Wu Zetian.
The magnificent tomb of Emperor Gaozong and Wu Zetian - China's only female emperor
Qianling Mausoleum (乾陵), located in Qian County about 80 kilometers northwest of Xi'an, is the joint tomb of Emperor Gaozong of the Tang Dynasty and his legendary wife, Wu Zetian - China's only female emperor to rule in her own right. Built between 684 and 706 AD, this magnificent tomb complex covers 240 square kilometers and represents one of the best-preserved Tang Dynasty imperial mausoleums.
Wu Zetian's story is extraordinary. Starting as a low-ranking concubine, she rose to become the de facto ruler of China for over 50 years, eventually declaring herself Emperor of the Zhou Dynasty. Her reign, though controversial, is remembered for promoting meritocracy over nepotism and expanding China's influence. Her tomb at Qianling remains sealed, never fully excavated, adding to its mystique.
The mausoleum's Spirit Way (神道) is lined with 67 stone statues of foreign dignitaries, camels, and horses - a testament to the Tang Dynasty's cosmopolitan reach. The famous Black Tiger Fountain (黑虎泉) and twin Qianlong monuments mark the entrance to the tomb proper.
67 stone statues of foreign ambassadors and officials lining the 1km Spirit Way, representing Tang Dynasty's international prestige.
The tomb of China's most powerful woman, featuring inscriptions and monuments honoring her remarkable reign.
Legendary bronze dragon fountain where the emperor's spirit is said to drink.
Panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from the mausoleum's elevated position.
Visit the extraordinary tomb of Emperor Gaozong and China's only female emperor Wu Zetian.
Walk the Spirit Way lined with 124 massive stone sculptures including rare "tributed envoy" statues.
Legend says Wu Zetian left a golden book in her tomb—divine fire reportedly scorched those who tried to open it.
Tour Bus No. 3 departs from Xi'an Railway Station Square at 8:00 AM, returning around 4:00 PM. Cost: 18 CNY one-way, approximately 2 hours journey.
Take a bus from Xi'an Chengxi Bus Station to Qian County (2 hours, 25 CNY), then taxi to the mausoleum.
About 90 minutes from Xi'an city center via the Lianhuo Expressway. Turn off at Qian County exit.
Qian County
Xianyang, Shaanxi