Zhao Mausoleum

Welcome to the Zhao Mausoleum, popularly known as the 'Bei-ling' or Northern Tomb. This site is the final resting place of Huang Tai-ji, the second ruler of the Qing Dynasty and the emperor who formally changed the name of his…

We begin our exploration at the 'Zheng-yang' Gate, the imposing main southern entrance to the mausoleum complex. This gate is a classic example of Qing dynasty ceremonial architecture, featuring three distinct arched portals. …

Continuing north along the Sacred Way, we arrive at the 'Sheng-de-sheng-gong' Stele Pavilion. This structure houses a massive stone tablet, known as a 'stele', which recounts the achievements and virtues of Emperor Huang Tai-ji. …

As we proceed toward the inner palace, the Sacred Way is lined with six pairs of stone animals. These figures—lions, 'xie-zhi' (mythical unicorns), camels, elephants, and horses—act as the eternal guardians of the emperor’s…

We now enter the 'Long-en' Gate, leading to the main sacrificial area of the mausoleum. The 'Long-en' Hall, or the Hall of Eminent Favor, is the most magnificent building at the site. …

Behind Long'en Hall lies the 'Yue-ya-cheng', or Crescent City, a semi-circular wall that leads to the final and most sacred part of the mausoleum. This 'Crescent City' is a unique feature of Qing tomb architecture, serving as a…

The final destination of our tour is the 'Bao-ding', or the Treasure Mound. This is a massive earthen hill, roughly circular in shape, surrounded by a high brick wall known as the 'Bao-cheng' or Treasure City. …

Our journey through the Zhao Mausoleum concludes back where we began, at the southern entrance, but with a new understanding of the complexities of the Qing Dynasty's origins. This site is more than a beautiful park or a…