Ancient Chinese capital known for its Terracotta Army, city walls, and Muslim Quarter. Home to Tang-era pagodas and archaeological sites from multiple dynasties.
Xi'an, a city with over 3,000 years of history, was once the imperial capital of China. You can explore ancient wonders like the Terracotta Army and the Ancient City Wall, or wander through the lively Muslim Quarter. Xi'an offers a glimpse into China's past while embracing modern developments, making it a fascinating destination for travelers.
Terracotta Army
About 40 km east of Xi'an's city center, you'll find the world-famous Terracotta Army. This vast collection of life-sized clay soldiers and horses guards Emperor Qin Shi Huang's tomb. Local farmers discovered the site in 1974, and it now consists of three main pits housing thousands of unique figures. Each warrior has distinct facial features and expressions, which archaeologists believe were modeled after real soldiers of the time. This 2,200-year-old army remains a remarkable testament to ancient Chinese craftsmanship and beliefs.
Ancient City Wall
Xi'an's Ancient City Wall, one of the largest urban fortifications in China, encircles the old city. Dating back to the 14th century Ming Dynasty, the wall extends for 14 kilometers. You can walk or cycle along the top, taking in views of both old and new Xi'an. At night, lights illuminate the structure, creating a captivating atmosphere. Many visitors choose to rent a bike at the top of the wall, which takes about 2 hours to complete the full circuit.
Muslim Quarter and Food
Near the Drum Tower, you'll find the active Muslim Quarter, home to Xi'an's Muslim community for centuries. As you explore the narrow alleys, you'll encounter numerous food stalls selling local specialties. Try roujiamo (flatbread filled with braised meat), yangrou paomo (flatbread in mutton stew), or liangpi (cold noodles). The area also houses the Great Mosque, one of the oldest and largest mosques in China, which blends traditional Chinese and Islamic architectural styles.
Getting Around Xi'an
Xi'an has a comprehensive public transportation system. The metro, with several lines covering major attractions and areas, is the fastest way to navigate the city. Buses offer an inexpensive option, though they can get crowded during peak hours. For short distances within the city center, you can use one of the many bike-sharing services. Taxis are also an option, but make sure the driver uses the meter. When visiting attractions outside the city like the Terracotta Army, you might find organized tours or hiring a private driver more convenient.
![500px provided description: Macau Skyline [#sky ,#sunset ,#water ,#clouds ,#architecture ,#cityscape ,#bridge ,#skyline ,#macau ,#skyscrapers ,#golden hour ,#macao] | Macau in China](https://humbo.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com/place-photo/5ff1f1c38ff140caaa4ae1d9/5QC0xP7xMK_thumb.jpeg)
