If you are traveling to China, it would be a shame to miss Xi’an. As the former capital, Xi’an still draws people from all over the world, every year to see its star archaeological attractions. The atmosphere much more traditional than major cities like Beijing and Shanghai. You are able to get a taste of the real China.
There’s so much to see and do here—from ancient architecture like the Bell Tower, Drum Tower, and Terracotta Warriors to natural sites like Mount Huashan!
Here are 5 things to do in Xi’an, China!
Terracotta Army
A stop in Xi’an wouldn’t be complete without seeing the Terracotta Army. Buried and forgotten for nearly 2,000 years, the collection of more than 8,000 life-size figures of warriors, chariots, horses, and acrobats was built to safeguard Emperor Qin Shi Huang (260-210 BCE) in the afterlife.
It was only rediscovered in 1974 and has since been dubbed a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an eighth wonder of the world
Muslim Street Market
Located in the Muslim district of Xi’an, the Beiyuanmen is an impressive stretch of Middle Eastern souvenirs and tasty food. The street runs about 550 yards north of the Drum Tower and is said to be one of the main starting points of the Silk Road.
Chinese referred to the Arab and Persian merchants who settled in the area as Hui people, and their descendants still sell their wares along the street.
Nowadays, you can walk the promenade while checking out the snack vendors’ fresh and fried delicacies.
Ancient City Wall
Xi’an has the best preserved ancient city walls in China. Built in the T’ang Dynasty in 1370, they stand nearly 40 feet high and are an outstanding length of more than eight and a half miles.
The walk is fairly simple and effortless, but be sure you bring something to drink as the street vendors are few and far between.
Mount Huashan
Mount Huashan is a must see. Take a train or long-distance bus out to Mount Huashan. The mountain, which stands more than 6,500 feet high, lies about 75 miles east of Xi’an and is one of Taoism’s Five Great Mountains.
Huashan is a beautiful cluster of five peaks with dramatic and breathtaking cliff faces. It is one of the most dangerous hiking trails in the world because of its steepness and narrow passes.
There is ‘ the world’s most Dangerous Hike’, where you walk on the mountain face it’s self, if you dare! Perhaps you are braver than I am!
