Maoling Mausoleum Overview
The tomb of Emperor Wu of Han, the largest and longest-constructed imperial mausoleum of the Han Dynasty.
Maoling Mausoleum Opening Hours & Tickets
- 08:00–17:30 (summer)
08:30–17:00 (winter)
- Best season: March–May and October, avoiding the midday heat in summer. The mound is scenic against a clear blue autumn sky.
- Ticket note:
Tickets sold on site. Discounts for students and seniors.
Essential Maoling Mausoleum Visitor Information
- Enquiries: +86 29 3845 6141
- Parking lot
- restrooms
- Maoling Museum
- souvenir counter
- simple snack stalls
How to Get to Maoling Mausoleum
- From Xi’an: Bus from Xi’an Chengxi Bus Station to Xingping, then transfer to city bus No. 11 to Maoling Museum stop.
- Drive: Xi’an – G30 Expressway to Xingping / Maoling exit, follow signs ~20 min.
Maoling Mausoleum Travel Safety & Advice
Police 110, Ambulance 120. Staff in the museum grounds can assist with minor issues.
Maoling Mausoleum Travel FAQ
How much should I expect to pay for a good quality terracotta figurine?
For a hand-finished, medium-sized (about 25cm tall) figurine with decent detail, a fair price after bargaining in the local market is between 180 and 350 RMB. The tiny, mass-produced ones near the entrance go for 50-80 RMB, but they lack character. The large, elaborate pieces you might see can run over 800 RMB. Decide on the size and quality you want before you start looking to avoid impulse buys.
Are the "ancient coin" souvenirs sold here real?
Almost certainly not. They are modern replicas, often made to look aged. Selling real ancient coins from an imperial tomb site would be illegal. They can still be cool souvenirs if you like the look, but buy them as replicas. A bundle of five replica coins should cost no more than 40-60 RMB. If a vendor insists they're "genuine artifacts," walk away—it's a red flag.
What's the best way to get to the Xingping markets from Maoling?
The most flexible option is a DiDi (China's Uber). It should cost around 20-30 RMB for the 15-minute ride. You can also ask your taxi driver from Xianyang or Xi'an to wait or take you there after your tomb visit, though this will cost more. Public buses exist but can be confusing for visitors without Chinese language skills. I found the DiDi app reliable in this area.
Is Maoling Mausoleum worth visiting compared to the Terracotta Army?
They serve different purposes. The Terracotta Army is a visual spectacle, an awe-inspiring display of art and power. Maoling is an intellectual and atmospheric experience. It's for travelers who want to understand the source of that power—the emperor who commissioned such armies and shaped an empire. If you only have one day for "tombs," choose the Terracotta Warriors. If you have a deep interest in Han history and want a more contemplative, crowd-free site, Maoling is profoundly rewarding.
What's the best way to combine Maoling with other Han Dynasty sites?
The logical and highly efficient pairing is with the Yang Mausoleum (Han Jingdi's tomb), located about a 30-minute drive back towards Xi'an airport. Emperor Jing was Wu's father. While Maoling's museum focuses on grave goods, Yang Mausoleum's underground museum lets you walk over glass above excavation pits filled with thousands of smaller, nude pottery figurines—a completely different and mesmerizing experience. A private car for the day can easily cover both. Trying to add a third major site becomes rushed.
Are there food options or facilities at Maoling?
Facilities are basic. There are clean restrooms near the entrance and the museum. For food, there are only a couple of small stalls near the parking area selling bottled water, instant noodles, and simple snacks like boiled eggs and sausages. Do not rely on finding a proper restaurant. Pack water and snacks like fruit or energy bars. Have a proper meal in Xingping city on your way back or wait until you return to Xi'an.
What should I wear or bring for the visit?
Comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable—you'll be on your feet on paved paths and grassy areas for hours. The site is very exposed. In summer, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are crucial. In winter, it's windy and cold on the plain, so dress in layers with a warm coat. Bring a bottle of water. A power bank for your phone is also a good idea if you're using it for translation, photos, and navigation all day.
Do hotels near Maoling Mausoleum accept foreign credit cards or only WeChat/Alipay?
Assume they only take Chinese mobile payments (WeChat/Alipay linked to a Chinese bank account) or cash (Chinese Yuan). Hotels in the core site area and Xingping town almost never have POS machines for foreign cards. Some higher-end hotels in Xianyang City can. Always carry sufficient cash as your primary payment method for accommodation, taxis, and site entry fees in this region.
How good is the English at hotels in Xingping?
Manage your expectations. At best, front desk staff at places like the Xingping International Hotel know key hotel terms like "check-in," "passport," and "room key." Complex conversations about travel plans or issues will require a translation app. Have one downloaded and ready (like Google Translate with offline Chinese packs). It works smoothly.
What's the best time to book for a visit?
Maoling is rarely crowded, so you don't need to book months ahead. But, booking at least 2-3 weeks in advance gives you a better selection, especially for the few better-quality options in Xingping. Last-minute bookings mean you'll likely get whatever is left at the core site guesthouses, which can be very basic.
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