The best things to do in Xi’an
Xi’an is a city with a rich history, having served as the capital of various Chinese dynasties, including the Han and Tang dynasties. The city is home to many ancient monuments and sites, such as the Terracotta Warriors and the city walls, making it a popular destination for history buffs and tourists. Here are some of the best things to do in Xi’an:
Visit the Terracotta Warriors
The Terracotta Warriors are one of the most famous tourist attractions in China and for good reason. The warriors were discovered in 1974 by farmers digging a well, and since then, thousands of tourists have flocked to the site to see the thousands of life-size terracotta soldiers, horses, and chariots that were buried with the first emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang, more than 2,000 years ago. The warriors are a must-see for anyone visiting Xi’an and are considered one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of the 20th century.
Explore the City Walls
The Xi’an city walls are some of the most well-preserved ancient city walls in China and are a great way to see the city. The walls were built during the Ming dynasty and are over 13 kilometers in length, making them one of the longest ancient city walls in the world. Visitors can bike or walk along the top of the walls, offering a unique perspective on the city and its history.
Visit the Shaanxi History Museum
The Shaanxi History Museum is one of the best history museums in China, and offers a great introduction to the history of Xi’an and the surrounding region. The museum has a vast collection of artifacts, including many from the Han and Tang dynasties. Visitors can also see ancient scrolls, pottery, and bronze objects, as well as learn about the history of the Silk Road.
See the Bell Tower and Drum Tower
The Bell Tower and Drum Tower are two of the most iconic landmarks in Xi’an and are located in the center of the city. The Bell Tower was built in the 14th century and is the largest and best-preserved of its kind in China. The Drum Tower was built in the 13th century and is home to a large drum that was used to mark the time in ancient China. Visitors can climb the towers for great views of the city.
Visit the Muslim Quarter
The Muslim Quarter is a vibrant and colorful area of Xi’an that is home to a large Muslim population. The area is known for its delicious street food, including the famous Xi’an-style “roujiamo” (a type of sandwich) and hand-pulled noodles. Visitors can also see the Great Mosque, which is one of the oldest and most important Islamic buildings in China.
Take a Day Trip to the Hua Shan Mountain
Hua Shan is one of the five sacred Taoist mountains in China and is located about 120 kilometers from Xi’an. Visitors can take a day trip to the mountain to see the beautiful scenery and hike to the summit. The mountain is also home to several ancient Taoist temples and nunneries, including the Hua Shan Temple, which is one of the oldest and most important Taoist temples in China.
Overall, Xi’an is a city with a rich history and culture. It is a perfect place to explore ancient history, delicious street food, unique culture, and beautiful nature. With so much to see anddo, it’s no wonder that Xi’an is a popular destination for tourists. Whether you’re interested in ancient history, architecture, or just soaking up the local culture, there’s something for everyone in Xi’an.
Take a stroll along the Guanzhong Plain
The Guanzhong Plain is a vast plain located in central China, which is home to several ancient Chinese capital cities, including Xi’an. Visitors can take a stroll along the plain and see the beautiful countryside, including traditional Chinese farmhouses, temples, and ancient tombs. It’s a great way to see a different side of Xi’an and experience the local culture and lifestyle.
Experience the Nightlife in Xi’an
Xi’an is not only famous for its ancient history, but also for its vibrant nightlife. There are plenty of bars, clubs, and pubs in the city to choose from, as well as live music venues and karaoke bars. Visitors can also enjoy traditional Chinese music and dance performances at local theaters.
Visit the Forest of Steles
The Forest of Steles is a museum in Xi’an that houses a large collection of ancient Chinese stone tablets and inscriptions. The museum is home to over 3,000 steles and is considered one of the most important collections of ancient Chinese calligraphy in the world. Visitors can see examples of calligraphy from the Han dynasty to the Ming dynasty, as well as learn about the history of Chinese calligraphy.
Take a bike ride around the city
Xi’an is a great city for biking, with its wide streets and bike lanes. Visitors can rent a bike and explore the city at their own pace. It’s a great way to see the city and experience the local culture. Biking around the city walls is also a great way to get a unique perspective on the city and its history.
Shop at the Xi’an City Wall South Gate Night Market
The Xi’an City Wall South Gate Night Market is a great place to shop for souvenirs, gifts and try street food. The market is open at night, and visitors can find everything from traditional Chinese crafts and clothing to modern souvenirs and trinkets. It’s a great way to experience the local culture and take home a piece of Xi’an.
In conclusion, Xi’an is a city with a rich history and culture that offers visitors a diverse range of activities and experiences. From visiting ancient monuments and sites to exploring the local culture and nightlife, there’s something for everyone in Xi’an. Plan your trip to Xi’an and experience the best of what this amazing city has to offer.
