How to Visit Hanyangling Museum in Xi’an – 2026 Guide

Written by Clementine | Updated June 01,2026

Hanyangling Museum, aka Mausoleum of Emperor Jingdi of Han Dynasty, is the burial place of Emperor Jing, the fourth emperor of the Western Han Dynasty, and his wife, Empress Wang.

Many visitors ask us: Is the Hanyangling Mausoleum Museum worth visiting after exploring the Terracotta Army? The answer is: absolutely.

The museum impresses tourists with the lifelike terracotta figurines, scenes of daily life, and imperial mausoleum system from the prosperous era of Emperor Jing, while the Terracotta Army is known for its grand military formation. They offer completely different experiences and complement each other.

If you are tired of the crowded popular attractions and seek a tranquil journey, Hanyangling Museum is an ideal destination.

Continue reading to find out what you can see and do in the museum, as well as the recommended visiting route and transportation guide.

Facts about Hanyangming Museum

• Location: Jinghe Industrial Park, East Section of Airport Road, Weicheng District, Xianyang City, about a 45-minute drive from downtown Xian.
• Suggested visiting time: 2 – 3 hours
• Opening hours:

Peak season (March – November): Ticket Hours: 08:30-17:00; Visiting Hours: 08:30-18:30 (Last Entry: 17:00)

Low season (December – February): Ticket Hours: 08:30 – 16:30; Visiting Hours: 08:30-18:00 (Last Entry: 16:30)

• Ticket Price:

Peak season (March – November): CNY 70/USD 10

Low season (December – February): CNY 55/USD 8

Content Preview

• • Highlights
  • Featured Activities
  • Visiting Route
  • How to Get to?
  • Useful Information and Tips
  • Travel with China Xian Tour
  • FAQs

Highlights of Hanyangling Museum: Four Must-See Exhibition Areas

Hanyangling Mausoleum Museum features 4 major exhibition areas and each offers a distinctive experience.

Protection Hall of Outer Burial Pits – An Underground Museum

Highlight: The first fully underground archaeological museum in China, a landmark in world-class heritage conservation.

This hall is the highlight of the museum. It is constructed on the original site of the 10 outer burial pits in the northeast of the mausoleum and is entirely underground.

From the suspended glass passages, visitors can view relics in the excavation pits closely from above, the side, and even beneath their feet. Most pottery figures, animal figurines, chariots, weapons, and other relics remain in their original unearthed positions. Some are even partially buried and partially exposed, as if you are right at the archaeological site.

The terracotta figurines here are about 62 cm tall and all naked with broken arms, as their original silk clothes and wooden arms decayed naturally over time. Unlike the solemn and imposing warriors in the Terracotta Army, the figurines at the Hanyangling Mausoleum have calm expressions, vividly reflecting the peaceful social atmosphere at that time.

 

Archaeological Exhibition Hall

Highlight: The core exhibition hall systematically displays the archaeological discoveries of the Hanyangling Museum and the material culture of the Han Dynasty

If the above Protection Hall of Outer Burial Pits amazes you with the original excavation site, this hall allows you to observe the details of thousands of precious artifacts unearthed from the mausoleum.

Painted kneeling female figurine with folded hands (often called the “Mona Lisa of the Han Dynasty), the world’s earliest known tea remains, and one of the earliest chessboards are all unmissable highlights.

Through the rich pictures and real cultural relics, the historical contributions of Emperor Jing, the political system, and the daily life of the Han Dynasty unfold before your eyes. Don’t miss it if you want to know the historical background of the museum.

The Site of South Gate Tower

Highlight: The oldest, the largest, and the most superior gate tower of the imperial mausoleum that still exists in China

South Gate Tower is the main entrance of Hanyangling Mausoleum and symbolizes the supreme imperial authority and the strict ritual order.

You will see the remains of the massive rammed-earth platform and stone columns. This highest-status gate structure will impress you with its large scale and carefully planned layout.

Tips: This hall mainly displays the heritage sites with only a few cultural relics, so it is suitable for a quick visit to appreciate the scale and architectural design of imperial architecture.

The Site of Memorial Sacrifice (Deyang Temple)

Highlight: Physical evidence of the “mausoleum temple system” in imperial tombs of the Han Dynasty

The site used to be the place to hold ancestral sacrifice ceremonies for Emperor Jing of Han. It is mainly preserved underground with glass covers and metal frames outlining the original building’s base.

Tips: Similar to the South Gate Tower, this site primarily focuses on the display of the ruin’s layout. If you are short of time, a brief stop or a quick look is enough.

Featured Activities

Hands-on Archaeological Excavation

China’s first public simulated archaeological practice base is right in Hanyangling Mausoleum Museum.

Here, visitors can use tools like trowels and brushes to excavate in a simulated dig pit under the professional guidance. The full process from uncovering, cleaning, to retrieving can be experienced. It is a wonderful activity for families and students.

Tips: It is usually offered as a special educational program or a group activity. If interested, please check the official announcements or contact the museum for the latest information before your visit.

Appreciate the Golden Ginkgo and Join a Hanfu Parade

From late October to late November every year, the vast Ginkgo forests in Hanyangling Museum turn into a golden sea, making it one of the most famous autumn landscapes in Xian. During the period, the museum will host a series of activities themed on “Ginkgo Season”.

In addition, visitors can also rent traditional Chinese clothing in the museum. Try on the Han-style or Tang-style clothing and take some memorable photos in this ancient archaeological park. During the Ginkgo Season, hanfu parades are often held as well.

Recommended Efficient Visiting Route

Suggested route: Enter through the South Gate → Archaeological Exhibition Hall → Protection Hall of Outer Burial Pits (Underground Museum) → The Site of South Gate Tower  → The Site of Memorial Sacrifice (Deyang Temple) → Exit through the South Gate

Why is this route recommended?

1. It basically avoids backtracking and the return journey is smoother and more convenient.
2. It offers a deeper understanding of the history. Starting with the Archaeological Exhibition Hall, you can gain a clear overview of the history behind Hanyangling Museum first. So, the exploration in the actual excavation site in the Underground Museum will be more immersive and
3. It is more efficient. The main highlights of Archaeological Exhibition Hall and Underground Museum require about 2 hours, and the South Gate Tower and Deyang Temple need about 0.5 – 1 hours. A full visit will take about 2.5 – 3 hours.

How to Get to Hanyangling Museum?

Hanyangling Mausoleum Museum is located in the northern suburb of Xian. It is about 30 km away from the city center (Bell Tower), but very close to the Xian Xianyang International Airport (just about 20 minutes drive away). So, if you are arriving in or departing from Xian by flight, you can include it in your itinerary on the same day.

• By taxi: Easiest and most convenient way

A ride from the city center to museum takes about 45 minutes and costs about CNY 50 – 60/USD 7 – 9. The return taxi may be hard to find, it is better to make a reservation in advance.

• By Public Shuttle Bus: Available only on weekends and public holidays

Two buses transport travelers between Xingzhengzhongxin Metro Station and the museum. So, you need to take metro line 2 or 4 to the metro station first.

Ticket Price: CNY 5/USD 1

Ticket Purchase: Purchase one day in advance via the online platform like Trip.com or purchase on site by scanning the code to pay the fare after getting on the vehicle.

Travel Time: about 25 minutes

Timetable:

Xingzhengzhongxin Metro Station exit D3 → Hanyangling Museum: 10:20, 13:30

Hanyangling Museum → Xingzhengzhongxin Metro Station exit A3: 12:30, 15:40

For a more worry-free journey, consider travelling with China Xian Tour. We offer tailor-made trips with an expert local guide and a private vehicle to ensure a hassle-free trip.

Useful Information and Tips for the Hanyangling Museum Tour (Updated in 2026)

• Best Time to Visit: Autumn (late October – November) is the best season when the climate is pleasant and the ginkgo trees turn golden. Spring (March – April) is another recommended period to appreciate the blooming cherry blossoms. For indoor exhibitions, you can visit all year round.
• English Guided Tour Service: Professional English-speaking guides are available at Hanyangling Museum. The guides are not only knowledgeable about history and archaeology, but also fluent in English and are skilled at explaining Chinese culture to international visitors. You can reserve at the Tourist Service Center upon arrival. The price is CNY 200/USD 29 per group (for up to 10 people).
• What to Wear: The Underground Museum may be slightly cool due to the temperature and humidity controls used for artifact preservation, so bringing a thin coat is necessary. Besides, the park covers a large area, so comfortable shoes are also strongly recommended.
• Dining: The dining options are limited inside the museum. It is advised to plan your meal before or after the visit and bring some snacks and drinks with you.

Embark on a Historic and Cultural Tour in Xian with China Xian Tour

Compared with other hot attractions, Hanyangling Museum features fewer tourists and a peaceful environment. Away from the noise of the city, you can spend half a day walking above ancient burial pits on glass pathways and experiencing the Han Dynasty culture in a relaxing way.

If needed, China Xian Tour is pleased to arrange a tour for you. As a travel agency based in Xian, we are familiar with the attractions and are able to tailor a perfect trip for you. Just tell our travel experts your interests and requirements, you will get a satisfying itinerary. To ensure your travel experience, we will also offer 24-hour support during the journey. So do not hesitate to contact us.

FAQs about the Hanyangling Museum

Does Hanyangling Museum have a gift shop?

Yes, there is a creative and cultural shop inside the Underground Museum. The souvenirs are inspired by the collections in the museum and Han Dynasty culture. Hanyangling commemorative coins, ginkgo-themed jewelry and tea cakes are all worth purchasing.

Can I take photos inside the museum?

Yes, but please do not use a flashlight.

Is Hanyangling Museum accessible to elderly travelers or wheelchair users?

Yes. Most areas are equipped with barrier-free passages. Besides, an elevator is available in the Underground Museum. The museum also offers wheelchair rental services.