Aisin-Gioro Hongli (1711-1799) was the fourth son of Emperor Yongzheng. He is more popularly known by his regnal name Qianlong. His tomb was completed in 1752 and is the most impressive here and perhaps all of China. The chamber is adorned with Buddhist carvings and Tibetan and Sanskrit scriptures. It is 54 m underground and measures about 372 square metres. It has been a a World Heritage Site since 2003. We went straight to the tomb since the other parts were closed for repairs.
Bixi carrying a stele
This is symbolic structure in imperial tombs. The altar has a incense burner, 2 vases and 2 candle holders. The women imperial members offer their prayers here. They were not allowed to go further.
Silk Offering Furnace
Yellow colour for the emperors and empresses but green for concubines
Steps into the tomb
Entrance to the tomb
The Four Heavenly Kings guard the entrance
Tibetan scriptures
The ceiling
The fallen door
The ceiling
Empror Qianlong's coffin
Going back up
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