Discover the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang - One of the World's Most Mysterious Tombs

Location of the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang

The Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang is located in Lintong District, Shaanxi Province, China, approximately 40 kilometers northeast of Xi'an. This site was chosen not only for its suitability for large-scale construction but also for the majestic surrounding landscape, creating a solemn and inviolable space for the tomb of China's first unifying emperor.

The Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang was built on a site with perfect feng shui. To the south lies the sacred Mount Li, historically significant, while to the north flows the Wei River, providing water and forming a natural boundary that protects the tomb's structure. The harmony between mountain and river reflects the balance of yin and yang, ensuring prosperity and safeguarding the emperor in the afterlife.

Images of the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang (Photo: @cafef)

When exploring the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang, we discover that besides its common name, it is also known by a few other titles. Among them is "Da Ling Tomb," derived from Chinese legends and feng shui beliefs. "Da Ling" translates to "sacred" or "divinely responsive," often referring to places with mystical energy and divine protection.

This name is used to emphasize the significance and sacredness of the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang. However, "Da Ling Tomb" is not the official name but rather a nickname. Another name is "Mount Li Tomb," named after the mountain where the mausoleum is located.

The secrets of the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang still hold many unexplained mysteries (Photo: @eileen_leemy)

The Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang is hailed as the "Eighth Wonder of the World" due to its colossal scale and the mysteries surrounding it. In 1987, UNESCO recognized the mausoleum and the Terracotta Army as a World Cultural Heritage Site.

This is one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century, attracting millions of tourists and researchers from around the globe. The mausoleum is not only a famous tourist destination in China tours but also a vital cultural and historical symbol of China.

The ideal time to visit the mausoleum

Currently, only the outer areas of the Qin Mausoleum have been excavated, while the inner tomb of Qin Shi Huang remains under archaeological investigation. However, China has developed this area into a cultural tourism site, featuring architectural complexes and museums for visitors to explore.

The best time to explore the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang, based on travel experiences in China, is during spring (March - May) and autumn (September - November). During these months, the weather in Xi'an is pleasantly cool, allowing visitors to comfortably explore the vast areas inside and outside the mausoleum. Summers are hot and humid, while winters are freezing, making these seasons less ideal for visits.

Visiting and learning about the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang during the ideal season (Photo: @11_elf)

Opening hours and ticket prices

Ticket prices: To delve deeper into ancient Chinese history and explore the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang, visitors need only spend around 120 - 200 CNY (approximately 420,000 - 700,000 VND), depending on the time of year and additional service packages.

Opening hours: The mausoleum is open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM during the peak season from March to November, and from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM during the off-season from December to February.

Ticket for visiting the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang (Photo: @yuyun0407)

How to get to the mausoleum

To explore the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang, visitors can book flights from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City with flexible schedules and routes. From Ho Chi Minh City to Xi'an, Vietjet Air offers direct flights starting at around 3,000,000 VND (including taxes and fees). However, as this is a newly launched route, there are only 4 flights per week.

From Xi'an city, visitors can travel to this Chinese tourist destination using various methods:

• Taxi: Taking a taxi is a quick and convenient option, with a travel time of approximately 40 - 50 minutes under normal traffic conditions.
• Bus: Public bus routes 306, 307, or tourist buses run directly from downtown Xi'an to the mausoleum in about 1 hour. From the Terracotta Warriors bus stop, it's a 170m walk to the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang.
• Subway: Depending on the starting point, visitors can take the subway to Huaqingchi Station, exit C. However, this station is quite far from the attraction, so visitors must walk 197m to the Huaqingchi bus stop and then take a bus to the Terracotta Warriors stop.
• Tour: Visitors can book guided tours with transportation included from Xi'an, making the journey easier and more informative.

History of the mausoleum's construction

The Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang is one of the most magnificent and complex ancient architectural projects, built as the final resting place for China's first unifying emperor, Qin Shi Huang (Ying Zheng). The history of this mausoleum spans decades, from its construction to its eventual abandonment and rediscovery in the mid-20th century.

Construction began (246 BC)

The construction of the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang began immediately after he ascended the throne of the Qin state in 246 BC, at just 13 years old. The project lasted 38 years, employing over 700,000 workers, craftsmen, and artisans from across the country. Qin Shi Huang ordered the construction of his tomb with the vision of creating an underground palace where he could continue to rule in the afterlife.

The interior of the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang has been recreated (Photo: @kemholiday)

Completion and burial (210 BC)

When Qin Shi Huang passed away in 210 BC, the mausoleum was not entirely complete. However, the essential sections were finished sufficiently to serve as the emperor's burial site. Treasures, terracotta soldiers, and other valuable artifacts were buried alongside Qin Shi Huang to serve him in the afterlife.

Neglect and destruction

After the fall of the Qin Dynasty, the mausoleum was forgotten, and the outer areas were ravaged by nature. Over centuries, the site was buried under soil and vegetation, gradually fading from public memory. However, thanks to its robust protective structure and unique geographical location, much of the internal structure of the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang remained intact.

The structure of the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang is deeply excavated and extremely sturdy (Photo: @11_elf)

Rediscovery (1974)

The secrets of the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang were accidentally uncovered in 1974 by a group of local farmers digging a well near Xi'an. This discovery led to large-scale excavations, revealing the Terracotta Army and parts of the mausoleum. It became one of the most significant archaeological finds of the 20th century, capturing global attention.

World Cultural Heritage (1987)

In 1987, the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang and its Terracotta Army were designated as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. This recognition highlights the importance of the mausoleum not only to China but also to the world, as a symbol of ancient history, culture, and artistry.

Current status and archaeological research

Currently, much of the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang remains unexcavated due to concerns about preservation technology, the artifacts inside, and the potential dangers that have yet to be fully assessed.

Archaeologists and Chinese authorities have opted for a phased excavation approach, combining research with artifact preservation. They have left much of the mausoleum in its original state, awaiting more advanced technologies in the future.

Current architectural state of the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang (Photo: @stanleyhsutw)

Overall, the decision to leave the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang largely unexcavated is a cautious one, aimed at preserving this invaluable cultural heritage for future generations. They await better technical solutions to ensure safe and effective excavation.

Structure and architecture of the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang

The Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang is a renowned cultural and historical site, featuring a vast and intricate architectural complex spanning approximately 56 km². It preserves significant relics related to China's first unifying emperor. The structure of the mausoleum is divided into several key areas, each holding unique historical and artistic value.

Diagram of the structure and architecture of the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang (Photo: @nghiencuulichsu.com)

Area 1: Main mausoleum

The architecture of Qin Shi Huang's mausoleum is believed to resemble a pyramid, with the tomb's peak reaching about 76 meters in height. This underground palace is designed as a miniature world, replicating the imperial capital and palace. Inside, there are models of palaces, temples, and even mercury rivers symbolizing China's waterways, representing imperial power and eternity.

Simulated images of the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang (Photo: @kemholiday)

Area 2: The Terracotta Army (Terracotta Warriors and Horses)

One of the most famous sections of the mausoleum is the Terracotta Army of Qin Shi Huang, consisting of over 8,000 clay soldiers, horses, and chariots arranged in battle formation. This army was discovered in three main burial pits:

• Pit 1: The largest pit, containing over 6,000 terracotta figures arranged in 11 battle rows.
• Pit 2: This pit houses around 1,300 terracotta figures and numerous chariots, organized in various combat formations.
• Pit 3: The smallest pit, believed to be the command center of the Terracotta Army.

The Terracotta Army of Qin Shi Huang (Photo: @11_elf)

Area 3: The Museum of the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang

This museum is built directly within the mausoleum complex, showcasing excavated artifacts and information about Qin Shi Huang's life and achievements. Visitors can learn about the construction process of the mausoleum, archaeological discoveries, and unsolved mysteries.

Museum of the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang (Photo: @iii_yeol)

Area 4: Scenic and auxiliary facilities

The tourist area includes the natural landscape surrounding the mausoleum, featuring gardens, lakes, and mountain ranges, creating a harmonious scenic view. Additionally, there are auxiliary facilities such as visitor centers, restaurants, souvenir shops, and rest areas.

Area 5: Treasure vaults

According to legends and historical records, the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang also contains unexcavated treasure vaults. These vaults are believed to hold countless treasures, including jade, jewels, and other rare artifacts, buried with the emperor for his use in the afterlife.

Area 6: Protection and defense zone

The mausoleum is surrounded by a robust protection and defense system, including walls, moats, and traps. This system was designed to safeguard the tomb from intruders and looters, reflecting the caution and power of Qin Shi Huang.

Area 7: Excavation and archaeological research zones

This area is where archaeologists conduct excavation and research on the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang. Visitors can observe archaeological activities and gain a deeper understanding of the process of uncovering historical relics here.

The Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang still holds many mysteries awaiting excavation (Photo: @sophia_dududu)

Mysteries surrounding the mausoleum

The Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang is one of the most fascinating archaeological sites in the world, shrouded in numerous unsolved mysteries. Below are some famous legends associated with the tomb.

The mercury river

One of the greatest secrets of the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang is the alleged river of mercury flowing within the tomb. According to Sima Qian's historical records, rivers and seas were recreated inside the mausoleum using mercury, symbolizing China's vast water systems.

Modern scientists have detected unusually high levels of mercury in the mausoleum area, which partially confirms the legend but also raises questions about its scale and purpose.

The curse of the mausoleum

Like many ancient tombs, the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang is associated with a curse protecting the emperor from intruders. Legend has it that anyone who disturbs Qin Shi Huang's rest will face severe consequences. While there is no concrete evidence of the curse, archaeologists' caution during excavations may stem from these concerns.

Deadly traps

Many legends suggest the mausoleum is equipped with deadly traps, including automatic crossbows and pit traps, to protect its treasures and deter intruders. Sima Qian's historical records also mention complex defense mechanisms, but to date, no concrete evidence of these traps has been found.

Priceless treasures

The Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang is believed to contain countless priceless treasures, from jade and jewels to unique artifacts. However, as much of the tomb remains unexcavated, these treasures remain an unsolved mystery. Legends suggest these items hold not only material value but also secrets about the emperor's power and immortality.

The immortal emperor

Qin Shi Huang is famous for his pursuit of immortality, but his death remains a topic of debate. Some legends claim the mausoleum was built as an underground palace for him to continue ruling in the afterlife. Others believe he discovered the secret to eternal life, and the tomb holds the key to his immortality.

However, there are also claims that Qin Shi Huang truly died, and his remains were not perfectly preserved due to his passing during a tour. Zhao Gao, a eunuch close to the emperor, reportedly used fish to mask the odor of the decaying body.

The mysterious Terracotta Army

The Terracotta Army of Qin Shi Huang, with over 8,000 soldier and horse statues, is an integral part of the mausoleum. However, the reason and method behind their creation remain a mystery. Some theories suggest the statues were modeled after real soldiers in Qin Shi Huang's army or even high-ranking generals and officials.

This raises the question of whether there is any connection between the statues and historical figures or if they are simply products of the artisans' imagination. Additionally, the production of these statues abruptly stopped after Qin Shi Huang's death, adding to the mystery of their purpose.

Some believe the army was created to protect the emperor in the afterlife, while others see it as a symbol of Qin Shi Huang's power and might.

The mystery of Qin Shi Huang's Terracotta Army (Photo: @div_china)

List of hotels near the mausoleum

The Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang is located in a mountainous area, so the nearest hotels are approximately 40km away. With Mytour, note down some quality, budget-friendly hotels near the tourist site:

*Hotel prices near the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang may vary depending on the season.

Hotels near the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang (Photo: @booking)

Tips for visiting the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang

When visiting the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang, tourists should keep the following points in mind:

• Prepare appropriate clothing: Due to the vast area of the mausoleum, visitors should wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate attire for easy movement.
• Bring water and snacks: With many attractions to explore, carrying water and light snacks will help maintain energy throughout the trip.
• Hire a guide: To gain deeper insights into the history and stories surrounding the mausoleum, consider hiring a guide specialized in the Qin Mausoleum tour.
• Book tickets in advance: During peak seasons, booking tickets ahead of time avoids sold-out situations and saves waiting time.
• Book a 5-day 4-night China tour package: Opt for a full package tour if you lack experience in independent travel. A China tour itinerary including the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang with a guide will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the site.

The Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang is not only a historical destination but also an architectural and artistic marvel filled with mysteries, promising visitors unique and profound experiences of ancient Chinese culture.

Author: Dung

Image source: Internet