Mao Mausoleum is the tomb of Emperor Wu of Han, Liu Che (156–87 BCE). As the imperial mausoleum of the Western Han Dynasty during its prime, Mao Mausoleum epitomizes the cultural spirit of the Western Han in tangible form. Its grand scale, exquisite artistic creations, and rich burial system not only document the splendor of the "Grandeur of Emperor Wu" but also showcase the open and inclusive cultural ethos of the Han Dynasty. Hailed as the "Pyramid of China," it stands as a milestone in Chinese mausoleum culture and has profoundly influenced later imperial tombs (such as the Qianling Mausoleum of the Tang Dynasty and the Ming Tombs). Today, it remains a critical window into the politics, art, and society of ancient China.
Emperor Wu of Han, Liu Che: One of the most visionary emperors in Chinese history, he reigned for 54 years (141–87 BCE). He inaugurated the "Grandeur of Emperor Wu," launching northern campaigns against the Xiongnu, expanding into the Western Regions, and promoting Confucianism as the state ideology, which propelled the Han Dynasty to its zenith.
Cultural Significance
Symbol of the Western Han’s Greatness: The scale of Mao Mausoleum and the quantity of its burial goods reflect the national strength of the "Grandeur of Emperor Wu."
Treasure of Stone Carving Art: The stone carvings at the Tomb of Huo Qubing (a general of Emperor Wu) are the earliest and best-preserved group of stone carvings extant in China, acclaimed as the "Pinnacle of Han Dynasty Stone Carving Art."
Treasury for Historical Research: The layout and burial systems of Mao Mausoleum and its auxiliary tombs provide invaluable insights into the politics, military, and culture of the Han Dynasty.
Address
Mao Mausoleum Village, Xingping City, Xianyang City, Shaanxi Province
Transportation
From Xi’an: Take the "Xi’an–Xingping" express bus from Xi’an Chengxi Bus Station, then transfer to a local bus to Mao Mausoleum.
By car: Approximately 1 hour (40 km from Xi’an).
Admission Fees
Peak season (March–November): RMB 75
Off-season (December–February): RMB 55
(Includes access to Mao Mausoleum Museum, Stone Carvings at the Tomb of Huo Qubing, etc.)
Opening Hours
Peak season: 8:30 AM–6:00 PM
Off-season: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Recommended Highlights
✅ Stone Carvings at the Tomb of Huo Qubing – Must-see national treasures such as Horse Trampling the Xiongnu.
✅ Mao Mausoleum Mound – Experience the grandeur of Han imperial mausoleums.
✅ Mao Mausoleum Museum – Explore the glorious history of Emperor Wu of Han’s era.
✅ Tombs of Wei Qing and Lady Li – Discover legendary figures from Emperor Wu of Han’s time.
