Written and updated by Ruqin
Last updated: March 27, 2026
Just north of central Xi’an, beyond the dense city streets and closer to open farmland, the Tomb of Emperor Jingdi feels unexpectedly calm. I remember stepping into the underground museum and pausing—the glass floors reveal neat rows of miniature figures, preserved in place, quiet but incredibly vivid.
If you’re figuring out how to visit Tomb of Emperor Jingdi, this is where expectations shift. The Hanyangling Mausoleum isn’t crowded or overwhelming. Instead, it offers a slower, more intimate encounter with the Han Dynasty—one that’s easy to miss, but hard to forget once you’ve been.
1. The History of the Tomb of Emperor Jingdi
Before diving into the details of how to visit, it’s important to understand the historical significance of this site. Emperor Jingdi (also known as Liu Qi) ruled during the Han Dynasty from 157 BC to 141 BC, a period of prosperity and relative peace in China.
His tomb, the Hanyangling Mausoleum, reflects this era’s focus on moderation and simplicity. Unlike the more famous Terracotta Warriors of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, which display military might, the tomb of Emperor Jingdi features smaller, more delicate figurines representing daily life.
The Hanyangling Tomb is an incredible archaeological site that provides insight into the customs, society, and burial practices of the Han Dynasty. Its layout is vast, covering over 20 square kilometers and housing both the Emperor’s tomb and the tomb of his Empress, Wang Zhi. Visiting this tomb is like stepping back in time to explore a more peaceful, civilian side of ancient China.
2. How to Get to Hanyangling Tomb
One of the first things to consider when planning your visit to the Tomb of Emperor Jingdi is how to get there. The Hanyangling Tomb is located about 20 kilometers (12 miles) north of Xi’an, making it easily accessible for a day trip.
By Subway and Bus
To reach the tomb by public transport, take Subway Line 2 from downtown Xi’an and get off at Shitushuguan Station. From there, transfer to Bus No. 4 or Tourist Bus No. 4, which will take you directly to the entrance of the Hanyangling Mausoleum. This is one of the most affordable ways to visit, though it might take a little longer.
By Taxi or Rideshare
Alternatively, you can take a taxi or rideshare service such as DiDi. A taxi ride from downtown Xi’an to the Hanyangling Tomb typically takes about 30-40 minutes and costs around 60-80 RMB ($10-12 USD). This is a convenient option if you want to travel directly and save time.
By Private Tour or Car Rental
Another option is to book a private tour or rent a car. Many tour companies in Xi’an offer guided trips to both the Terracotta Warriors and the Hanyangling Tomb, which is ideal if you’re looking to combine both sites in a day. A guided tour provides transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and the added convenience of not worrying about directions or public transport.
3. Best Time to Visit Tomb of Emperor Jingdi
When planning how to visit Tomb of Emperor Jingdi, it’s important to consider the best time to go. The site is open year-round, but the ideal times to visit are during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather in Xi’an is mild and pleasant, making for a more comfortable experience. Summers can get quite hot, and winters are cold, so be sure to dress accordingly if you visit during these times.
The tomb is generally less crowded than other major sites in Xi’an, such as the Terracotta Warriors, which makes it a great option for those seeking a quieter and more relaxed tour experience.
4. Opening Hours and Ticket Prices
The Hanyangling Museum, which houses many of the artifacts from the tomb, is open daily from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM during the peak season (April to October), and from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM in the off-peak season (November to March). Last entry is usually one hour before closing, so be sure to arrive with plenty of time to explore.
Ticket prices for the Tomb of Emperor Jingdi are affordable, costing around 90 RMB ($14 USD) per person. There are also discounts for students and senior citizens, so be sure to bring the necessary identification if applicable. The ticket price includes access to both the museum and the tomb site.
5. Highlights to See in the Tomb of Emperor Jingdi
When visiting the Hanyangling Tomb, there are several highlights you won’t want to miss. Here are the key things to see and experience:
1) The Underground Museum
One of the most fascinating features of the Tomb of Emperor Jingdi is the Underground Museum, which allows visitors to walk over glass floors, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the excavated pits below. These pits are filled with miniature clay figurines, including soldiers, servants, and animals, all meticulously arranged to depict scenes of everyday life in the Han Dynasty.
The glass walkways create a unique experience, allowing you to observe the tomb’s contents without disturbing them.
2) Figurines of the Han Dynasty
Unlike the imposing figures of the Terracotta Army, the figurines found in the Hanyangling Tomb are much smaller, standing around 60 centimeters (24 inches) tall. These figures represent civilians rather than soldiers, reflecting the peaceful and prosperous reign of Emperor Jingdi.
You’ll see depictions of everyday life, from farmers to housekeepers, each one carefully crafted to showcase the simplicity of the Han Dynasty.
3) The Layout of Hanyangling
The overall layout of the tomb is vast and impressive, with the main tomb of Emperor Jingdi at its center, surrounded by burial pits, sacrificial altars, and ceremonial spaces. The tomb complex also includes the resting place of Empress Wang Zhi, his wife. Exploring the entire site gives visitors a clear sense of the scale of this ancient burial ground.
4) Hanyangling Museum Artifacts
The Hanyangling Museum houses a collection of artifacts discovered at the tomb site, including pottery, tools, jewelry, and more. These items offer insight into the daily lives of people during the Han Dynasty, as well as their burial customs. Don’t miss the beautifully preserved silk garments and other textiles, which are particularly rare finds from this period.
6. How to Plan a Xi’an Terracotta Warriors and Hanyangling Tour
I’ve tried doing both the Terracotta Army and the Tomb of Emperor Jingdi in one day, and it works—but the pacing matters more than you’d expect. The Terracotta Warriors are intense: big crowds, long walking routes, and a lot to take in. By the time you leave, you’ll likely feel it.
That’s exactly why I like placing Hanyangling in the afternoon. The contrast is immediate. You step into a quieter space, walk slowly over glass floors, and finally have room to absorb what you’re seeing. Logistically, it’s a cross-city route—from east to north—but still manageable by car or taxi.
If you prefer not to think about transport, combining both sites with a guided day tour is the easiest path. Just choose one that doesn’t rush Hanyangling. It’s subtle, and it deserves a slower finish to your day.
Walking through the underground galleries of the Tomb of Emperor Jingdi, I noticed how different it feels from the headline sights in Xi’an. You move slowly, looking down through glass at fragile Han Dynasty figures, and the experience stays quiet, almost reflective.
If you’re thinking about how to visit Tomb of Emperor Jingdi, it’s worth the effort. The Hanyangling Mausoleum doesn’t overwhelm—it reveals itself gradually. Whether you go independently or with a guide, it adds depth to your Xi’an trip in a way the bigger sites simply can’t.
About the Author
Ruqin is the founder of Ruqintravel.com and has spent more than four decades working in China’s travel industry. Drawing on hands-on experience in cities like Beijing and Hangzhou, he personally researches and updates each guide to help international travelers navigate China with confidence.
Further Reading
Where to Stay in Xi’an: Areas, Hotels, Maps and Attractions
How to Use the Xi’an Subway: A Guide for First-Time Travelers
What to Buy in Xi’an: Best Gifts from Xi’an
How to Visit the Terracotta Warriors: Tickets, Map, Highlights & Tips
Bell & Drum Towers, Xi’an: What to See, Tickets & Travel Tips
How to Visit Shaanxi History Museum – A Complete Guide
How to Visit Huaqing Pool in Xi’an: Map, Tickets, Show and Tips
How to Visit Big Wild Goose Pagoda in Xi’an: A Complete Guide
How to Visit Xi’an City Wall: Map, Tickets, South Gate & Travel Tips
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How to Visit Great Mosque of Xi’an: Map, Hours, Tour & Travel Tips
