According to legend, Bailuyuan (白鹿原) got its name from the appearance of a white deer. The Book of the Later Han mentions, “To the west of Xinfeng County, there is Bailuyuan, where the white deer appeared during the reign of King Ping of Zhou.” The Commentary on the Water Classics and The Comprehensive Guide to the Taiping Era also state that “when King Ping moved east, a white deer roamed this plain, hence the name.” Bailuyuan has a long history, rich cultural heritage, simple folk customs, and is known for its beauty and mystique, making it a magical and fertile land.
Bailuyuan features a unique natural environment, nestled against mountains to the southeast and surrounded by water on three sides, guarding the ancient capital for thirteen dynasties. It has historically been a contested area for military strategists and serves as a natural barrier for the stability of various dynasties. The rich historical and cultural deposits of Bailuyuan reflect the coexistence of ancient ethnic minorities such as the Jin, Yuan, and Qiang, alongside Han culture, leading to strong local traditions and a vibrant, legendary atmosphere.
Renowned author Chen Zhongshi wrote the novel Bailuyuan, set in the first half of the 20th century, which won the fourth Mao Dun Literature Prize. In 1999, it was named the top literary work in the “Hundred Years of Chinese Literature” by the People’s Literature Publishing House. The novel has showcased the local customs and cultural heritage of Bailuyuan to the world, depicting its majestic history and crafting a vivid narrative that has laid the foundation for the tourism of Bailuyuan’s folk customs.
Travel Information about Bailuyuan Scenic Area
Tickets and Opening Hours
Tickets: Free
Opening Hours: Open all day
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Bailuyuan is during the spring months of March to May, when the flowers are in full bloom, and the autumn months of September to November, when the weather is crisp and refreshing. In winter, when the area is covered in snow, Bailuyuan resembles scenes from a novel, offering a picturesque landscape. The nearby ski resort is also worth a visit during this season.
Getting to the Scenic Area
Location: Baqiao District, Xi’an, 15 kilometers from the city center.
Transportation: Take bus No. 240 (from the train station to Dizhai via Sixueyuan) and get off at the Automobile Technology Institute. Walk 300 meters southwest to reach the scenic area.
Scenic Area Rating
- Cultural Significance: ★★★★
- Unique Features: ★★★
- Leisure: ★★
- Beauty: ★★★
- Romance: ★★
- Excitement: ★★
Highlights of Bailuyuan Scenic Area
Bailuyuan Culutre Area
Located in the heart of Bailuyuan, the area lies upstream of Whale Valley. It features a unique natural environment, nestled against mountains to the southeast and surrounded by water on three sides. The loess plateau covers an area of 263 square kilometers, with an elevation 300 meters higher than Xi’an. This area has historically been a strategic location due to its vantage point over the ancient capital for thirteen dynasties, making it a coveted battleground throughout history.
Bailuyuan is rich in underground water resources, known for its sweet and pure quality. The air is fresh, the sky is clear, and the region experiences distinct seasons, making it a pristine area free from urban pollution, conveniently close to the bustling metropolis of Xi’an.
Xiyuan (West Garden)
Xiyuan is located in Baoqizhai Village, Dizhai Street Office, within Bailuyuan. The garden is home to over 20 varieties of ornamental trees, blooming with flowers throughout the year. In addition to the beautiful flowers, the garden also cultivates various economic crops such as cherries, grapes, walnuts, and peaches. During the harvest season, visitors are welcome to enter the garden to pick the ripe fruits, allowing them to fully enjoy the pleasures of the garden experience.
Within the garden lies the Mausoleum of Empress Dowager Bo, whose tomb is shaped like a traditional Chinese dipper. In front of the tomb stands a stone tablet erected by Bi Yuan, the Governor of Shaanxi during the Qing Dynasty, inscribed with the words “汉薄太后南陵.” In the central square, a commemorative monument featuring the characters “Bailuyuan,” written by the renowned author Chen Zhongshi, stands tall. The southern side of the square has been transformed from sloped land into a recreational area for visitors.
The extensive vegetation in the garden effectively improves the ecological environment of Bailuyuan, enhancing air quality and creating a rare natural oxygen bar in modern urban life. It is also an excellent place to experience agricultural activities, appreciate local customs, and reminisce about history.
Related Details:
Empress Dowager Bo, originally from Wu County in Kuaiji (modern-day Changzhou, Jiangsu), was a concubine of Liu Bang, the founder of the Han Dynasty, and the mother of Emperor Wen of Han, Liu Heng. Her birth year is not known. During the Chu-Han Contention, Bo Ji was a concubine of Wei Bao, the King of Wei. A famous astrologer once prophesied that she would give birth to an emperor, which delighted Wei Bao and led him to ally with Chu against Han. After Wei Bao’s kingdom was defeated by Han, Bo Ji was taken into Liu Bang’s palace. When Liu Heng ascended the throne as Emperor Wen, he honored her as Empress Dowager.
Whale Valley
Whale Valley is located 2 kilometers south of Dizhai Town on Bailuyuan. It consists of two interconnected reservoirs, forming a picturesque artificial lake. The shimmering lake is surrounded by towering mountains and lush forests, creating a breathtaking scenery that feels like a fairyland. At the entrance, there is a striking 17-meter-long whale statue that spouts water up to 8-9 meters high, making it a popular photo spot for visitors.
The scenic area features typical northern loess landscapes alongside the elegance of southern mountainous waterscapes. It boasts a diverse natural environment, with artificially created lakes, cascading waterfalls, and intricate landforms. Visitors can enjoy layers of mountains, deep valleys, lush pines and bamboos, as well as unique flowers and plants. The traditional cave dwellings of Guanzhong are scattered throughout the cliffs, preserving an ancient charm. With its winding valleys and numerous peninsulas, Whale Valley offers a steep southern shore and a gentle, sunlit northern shore, making it an ideal retreat for leisure and summer relaxation.
Bailu Warehouse
Bailu Warehouse is located on the famous Bailuyuan in Xi’an, set against the backdrop of the early Republic of China. It draws cultural foundations from the daily life and customs of the Bailuyuan area. This site features various architectural styles from the Republic of China period, along with a range of unique local delicacies.
The ancient street of Bailuyuan is a recreation of the street’s original appearance as depicted in the novel, showcasing the distinct charm of Bailuyuan in an authentic manner. The streets of the Republic of China are filled with the essence of that era, featuring rickshaws, women in qipaos, streetcars, and traditional entertainment venues. These scenes vividly reflect the style and elegance of the Republic of China period.
Visitor Guide for Bailuyuan Scenic Area
Accommodation Options
The hotels around Bailuyuan offer decent lodging conditions, with many budget hotels available, while upscale hotels are relatively few. The scenic area is not far from the city center, making it convenient to return to the city for accommodation.
Jin Beike Express Hotel (金贝壳快捷酒店): Located near Northwest University, this area boasts a strong academic atmosphere. The nearby commercial district is bustling, and transportation is convenient. The hotel has various dining options on the ground floor, offering a wide variety of cuisines. The guest rooms are clean and tidy, with multiple room types available.
Xi’an Fangxin Ruchun Business Hotel (西安方欣如春商务酒店): Situated at the intersection of West Second Ring Road and Daxing Road, approximately 360 meters from Bailuyuan, this hotel enjoys a prime location with easy access to transportation. It combines accommodation, entertainment, leisure, and office services. The hotel offers different room types that are spacious, bright, warm, and comfortable, catering to the needs of various guests. It is an ideal choice for exploring Bailuyuan. Phone: 029-84418999.
Bailuyuan Cherry Culture Tourism Festival
During the festival, visitors can enjoy the stunning sight of cherry blossoms across thousands of acres, pick fresh cherries, taste farm-fresh cuisine, and relax in quaint farm courtyards. This event offers a delightful holiday experience, allowing guests to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy a leisurely and tranquil atmosphere.