BL47 Ethereal Soul Gate

Reviewed by · Licensed Acupuncturist & TCM Physician · Last reviewed June 2026

BL47 (Hunmen, “Ethereal Soul Gate”) is an acupuncture point on the Bladder Meridian. It is located on the back, 3 cun lateral to the posterior midline, at the level of the lower border of the spinous process of the 10th thoracic vertebra (T10). This point is located 1.5 cun lateral to BL19. It spreads liver qi, regulates qi, alleviates pain.

Location

On the back, 3 cun lateral to the posterior midline, at the level of the lower border of the spinous process of the 10th thoracic vertebra (T10). This point is located 1.5 cun lateral to BL19.

Needling

Oblique insertion 0.5-0.7 cun. Caution: pneumothorax.

⚠ Pneumothorax risk: oblique/shallow only, never deep perpendicular over the chest wall.

TCM functions

Spreads liver qi, regulates qi, alleviates pain.

Indications

Pain in the chest and hypochondriac region, vomiting, diarrhea, back pain.

Clinical notes

Hunmen, 'Ethereal Soul Gate,' is a key point for addressing Liver qi stagnation, reflecting its proximity to the Liver's Back-Shu point (BL18). It is primarily used to spread Liver qi, making it effective for hypochondriac pain, distention, and emotional imbalances like irritability or frustration. It also helps regulate qi and alleviate pain in the local area. It is often combined with LR3 (Taichong) for a stronger effect on Liver qi.

On the Bladder channel

BL47 is one of 67 points on the Bladder Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is BL47 located?

BL47 (Hunmen) is located on the back, 3 cun lateral to the posterior midline, at the level of the lower border of the spinous process of the 10th thoracic vertebra (T10). This point is located 1.5 cun lateral to BL19.

What is BL47 used for?

BL47 spreads liver qi, regulates qi, alleviates pain. Common clinical indications include pain in the chest and hypochondriac region, vomiting, diarrhea, back pain.

How is BL47 needled?

Oblique insertion 0.5-0.7 cun. Caution: pneumothorax. Caution: ⚠ Pneumothorax risk: oblique/shallow only, never deep perpendicular over the chest wall.

Which meridian is BL47 on?

BL47 is a point on the Bladder Meridian (Zú Tài Yáng Páng Guāng Jīng).

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⚠️ This page is for general education and is not medical advice. Acupuncture is a traditional practice; evidence varies by condition and study quality, and individual results differ. It does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a licensed professional. Always consult a qualified acupuncturist or physician.