Hanyang Mausoleum

汉阳陵

The tomb of Emperor Jing of the Han Dynasty featuring thousands of terracotta figurines and offering a fascinating look at Han Dynasty life and beliefs. The museum provides excellent exhibits on Han Dynasty civilization and burial practices.

Things to do

• Explore the Underground Palace Exhibition — Walk through the subterranean chambers where thousands of terracotta figurines, pottery animals, and burial goods are displayed in situ, offering an intimate view of Han Dynasty funerary practices.
• View the Terracotta Army Collection — Examine the thousands of life-sized and miniature clay soldiers, officials, acrobats, and servants that were buried to serve Emperor Jing in the afterlife.
• Visit the Han Dynasty Museum — Study extensive exhibits on Han Dynasty civilization, including pottery, bronze vessels, jade carvings, and detailed explanations of burial customs and imperial beliefs.
• Walk the Mausoleum Grounds — Stroll through the landscaped cemetery area surrounding the imperial tomb to appreciate the scale and layout of this grand Han Dynasty necropolis.
• Examine Pottery Workshop Displays — Observe recreations and artifacts from Han Dynasty pottery workshops, showing how artisans crafted the figurines and vessels buried with the emperor.
• Study the Underground Chariot Pit — Inspect the excavated pits containing terracotta chariots and horses that demonstrate the advanced craftsmanship and transportation systems of the Han era.

Food to try

• Biangbiang Noodles — Try these wide, hand-pulled wheat noodles typical of Shaanxi province, served with spicy oil and chili paste for an authentic regional experience near Xi'an.
• Roujiamo (Meat-Filled Flatbread) — Sample this iconic Shaanxi sandwich of spiced braised meat tucked into a crispy flatbread, available at local vendors near the museum entrance.
• Jianbing (Chinese Crepes) — Enjoy these savory griddle crepes filled with egg, crispy wonton, scallions, and bean sauce, commonly sold at breakfast stalls throughout the Xian region.
• Liangpi (Cold Noodles) — Refresh yourself with these chilled wheat noodles dressed in a tangy vinegar and sesame oil sauce, perfect for warm days while touring the mausoleum.
• Hulatang (Hot and Sour Soup) — Warm up with this peppery soup thickened with cornstarch, filled with pork and fungi, a Shaanxi breakfast staple found at nearby restaurants.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Photography Restrictions — Some exhibition areas prohibit flash photography or photography altogether; always check signage and ask museum staff before taking pictures of artifacts.
• Learn About Han Dynasty Beliefs — Understanding the Han Dynasty concept of the afterlife and ancestor veneration will greatly enhance your appreciation of why so many figurines and goods were buried with the emperor.
• Plan for School Groups and Peak Hours — Weekends and afternoons often see large school groups visiting; arrive early in the morning or on weekdays for a more peaceful experience.
• Allow Adequate Time for the Museum — Budget at least three to four hours to properly explore both the underground palace and museum exhibits without feeling rushed through this significant archaeological site.