Xi'an

Xi'an, the capital of Shaanxi Province, is a city rich in Chinese history and culture. As the eastern end of the Silk Road, Xi'an has played a significant role in China's past. Visitors can explore the Terracotta Army, walk along the Ming dynasty walls, wander through the lively Muslim Quarter, and admire ancient pagodas. These sites offer a glimpse into different periods of Chinese history, from the Qin dynasty to the present day.

Exploring the Terracotta Army

About an hour from Xi'an's city center, you'll find the Terracotta Army. Local farmers discovered this collection of life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots in 1974. Created over 2,200 years ago, these figures were meant to protect Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife. The site has three main pits containing thousands of figures, each with different facial features and expressions. You can take a public bus, taxi, or hire a private driver to get to the museum, with costs varying based on your choice of transport.

Walking the Ancient City Wall

The City Wall, built during the Ming Dynasty, surrounds Xi'an's old city center and is about 8.5 miles long. At 40 feet tall, this wall gives you a different view of Xi'an's layout. You can walk or rent a bicycle to explore. Many people start at the South Gate (Yongning Gate). Bike rentals cost around $10 for two hours, letting you cover more distance and see both old and new parts of the city.

Eating in the Muslim Quarter

The Muslim Quarter, or Huimin Jie in Chinese, is where you can experience Chinese and Islamic cultures side by side. This neighborhood is home to Xi'an's Hui community and has many street food vendors. Try local dishes like roujiamo (meat-filled flatbread), liangpi (cold rice noodles), and yangrou paomo (flatbread in mutton soup). You can also visit the Great Mosque, one of China's oldest and largest mosques, which combines Chinese and Islamic architectural styles.

Visiting the Big Wild Goose Pagoda

Built in 652 AD, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda is an important part of Xi'an's Buddhist history. This seven-story structure originally held Buddhist texts brought from India by the monk Xuanzang. Today, you can climb to the top for a view of the city or explore the Da Ci'en Temple complex around it. In the evenings, there's a musical fountain show near the pagoda, which many people enjoy watching.

Relaxing at Huaqing Palace and Hot Springs

Huaqing Palace and its hot springs are about 30 kilometers east of Xi'an, at the foot of Mount Li. The palace grounds include several bathing pools that Tang Dynasty emperors once used. You can swim in one of the 16 spring-fed pools or walk around the palace buildings and gardens. In the evenings, you can watch "The Song of Everlasting Sorrow," an outdoor show based on a famous Tang Dynasty poem.

Getting Around Xi'an

Xi'an has a good public transportation system. The metro is a quick way to reach many of the city's main sites. There are many buses, including special routes for tourists that connect major attractions. If you prefer more flexibility, you can use taxis or ride-hailing services. Bicycles are another option, with bike-sharing programs available throughout the city.

Exploring Beyond the City

If you have extra time, consider going outside Xi'an. Mount Li, near the Terracotta Army, has hiking trails and nice views. For a taste of rural life, visit Yuan Jia village, about 90 minutes from Xi'an. This quiet village is very different from the city and gives you a chance to see traditional countryside living and eat home-cooked meals.