Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor

Welcome to Lintong District in Xi'an, Shaanxi, where you can explore the magnificent World Heritage site of the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor. Built between 246 and 208 BC for Qin Shi Huang, China's first emperor, this vast ancient tomb complex spans inner and outer cities modeled after the Qin capital of Xianyang. At its core stands a 76-meter-tall tomb mound shaped like a truncated pyramid.

While the main central underground palace remains unexcavated, you can witness the unbelievable scale of his necropolis surrounding it. Just 1.5 kilometers east of the mound lies the famed Terracotta Army, an ancient garrison of thousands of terracotta warriors, horses, and wooden chariots uncovered under protective structures. Throughout the broader necropolis complex, excavations have revealed fascinating pits containing bronze chariots, stone armor, courtiers, musicians, and bronze water birds like swans and cranes.

Historical accounts describe an elaborate underground world filled with mechanical traps and mercury rivers—a detail supported by modern tests detecting unusually high mercury levels in the soil. Visiting this ancient imperial site lets you experience the incredible history, engineering, and ambition of unified China's earliest days.

What to see at Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor

• The 76-meter-tall truncated pyramid tomb mound of Qin Shi Huang
• The Terracotta Army pits housing thousands of warrior figures and horses
• Exhibits of intricate bronze chariots and horses found within the inner wall
• Artifact pits featuring stone armor, courtiers, musicians, and bronze water birds

Visiting tips

Be sure to explore both the main tomb mound area and the nearby Terracotta Army pits located 1.5 kilometers to the east to see the full scope of this vast ancient necropolis.

How long: Half day · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor is easy to reach on Xi'an’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Terracotta Army and Chang'an. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Xi'an travel guide.