Traveling Through Centuries, Encountering the Historical Light and Shadow of Dongling

In the eastern suburbs of Shenyang, the Qing Fuling Mausoleum stands quietly, more commonly known as Dongling. Built in 1629, this royal mausoleum is the resting place of Qing Taizu Nurhaci and Empress Xiaoci Gao of the Yehe Nara clan. As one of the Three Imperial Tombs of Shengjing, it was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 2004, bearing profound historical and cultural significance. Upon entering Dongling Park, the first sight that greets you is the majestic stone archway. Despite centuries of wind and rain, its exquisite carvings remain intact, as if narrating the glories of the past. Walking along the Sacred Path, you’ll see lifelike stone animals on either side, sitting or standing like loyal guardians silently watching over this land for hundreds of years. At the end of the Sacred Path lies the 108-step staircase, symbolizing the 36 Heavenly Stars and 72 Earthly Fiends. Each step feels like crossing the river of history. Ascending the steps, you’ll reach the grand Shengong Shengde Stele Pavilion, where a stone tablet inscribed in both Manchu and Chinese recounts Nurhaci’s remarkable achievements. Beyond this lies the Fangcheng (Square City) and Baocheng (Treasure City). The towering walls and corner towers of Fangcheng evoke images of its heavily guarded past. The Long’en Hall, the main sacrificial site, is solemn and dignified, with minimal decoration exuding an ancient charm. Baocheng, the heart of the mausoleum, is where Nurhaci and his empress rest eternally. Dongling is beautiful in every season. In spring, new buds sprout on the trees, their tender green leaves contrasting with the ancient architecture, full of vitality. In summer, lush trees cast dappled sunlight, adding a touch of mystery. Autumn covers the ground with golden leaves, like a golden carpet, creating a stunning scene with the red walls and golden roofs. In winter, snow blankets Dongling in silver, serene and majestic, as if transporting you back to Shengjing centuries ago. No matter the season, Dongling’s unique charm is palpable. Here, you can don traditional attire for a photoshoot, immersing yourself in this historical tableau, or simply stroll quietly through the park, feeling the weight of history and listening to the echoes of time. Shenyang Dongling is not just a tourist destination but a vivid history textbook, waiting to be explored and discovered. #ShenyangDongling #QingZhaoling #ShenyangTravel #ShenyangCheckInSpots #ShenyangHotels #HolidayInnExpressShenyangHunnan