11 Hidden Historical Tales of Huanglong - #3 Will Change Everything You Know!

5. Imperial Family's Secret Retreat

Historical accounts show that, especially during the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644), Huanglong was a highly guarded hidden hideaway for members of different Chinese imperial families. Imperial family members fleeing court politics or recovering from illness would find the site's isolated location and natural beauty perfect. Recent unearthed records show that several royal consorts and princes kept private homes close to the pools under cover of Buddhist meditation retreats. The purported curative qualities of the waters drew these imperial guests in addition to their natural beauty. The imperial presence resulted in the creation of specialised facilities and services maintained secret from general knowledge. Luxurious objects including jade artefacts and rare porcelain have been found by archaeologists, implying a degree of luxury considerably above what would be expected of a temple. The imperial link also produced secret passageways and hidden chambers all around the complex, some of which have just lately been unearthed. These revelations have enabled historians to better grasp the personal life and interaction of imperial family members with regard to religious institutions.