The Zhao Mausoleum (Zhāo Líng, 昭陵) or North Tomb is situated amongst the expansive greens and lakes of Beiling Park (Běilíng Gōngyuán, 北陵公园), near the Shenyang Imperial Palace. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Zhao Mausoleum is one of Shenyang's most popular historic and cultural attractions. Commissioned by the first Qing emperor Abahai, also known as Huang Taiji, the tombs feature masterful artistry combining Manchu and Chinese architectural elements. Wandering through the mausoleum's grand palaces and pavilions, visitors will find a number of decorated archways, ornamental columns, cloud or Pailou (Páilou, 牌楼) pillars and statues of animals much loved and idolized in ancient China such as elephants, camels, lions and the mythical qilin (qílín, 麒麟) and unicorns (xièzhì, 獬豸). After touring the tombs, visitors can spend the rest of the afternoon exploring Beiling Park. Shenyang's largest park, there's plenty of fresh air, greenery and shady spots in which to relax.
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