Xi'an: A Time-Travel Through 13 Dynasties

1. One of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China

Xi'an has a history of over 3,000 years and was the capital of 13 dynasties. It is one of the most important historical cities in China and has played a significant role in Chinese history and culture.

2. The Starting Point of the Silk Road

Xi'an was the starting point of the ancient Silk Road, which was a network of trade routes that connected China with the rest of the world. The city was a major center of trade and cultural exchange, and played a crucial role in the development of globalization.

3. A City of Four Seasons

Xi'an has a temperate continental climate with four distinct seasons. Spring is warm and sunny, summer is hot and humid, autumn is cool and dry, and winter is cold and snowy. Each season has its own unique charm and attractions.

4. The Largest City Wall in China

Xi'an's ancient city wall is the largest and best-preserved city wall in China. It is 13.7 kilometers long, 12 meters high, and 15 - 18 meters wide. The wall was built in the 14th century and is now a popular tourist attraction.

5. A City of Gardens

Xi'an is known for its beautiful gardens and parks, such as the Big Wild Goose Pagoda Scenic Area, the Shaanxi History Museum, and the Tang Paradise. These gardens and parks are not only beautiful but also have a rich historical and cultural significance.

Why is Xi'an Called the "City of Eternal Peace"?

The name "Xi'an" means "Western Peace" in Chinese. The city was given this name during the Han Dynasty to reflect its importance as a center of peace and stability in the western region of China.

6. A Well-Connected City

Xi'an is a major transportation hub in China, with an international airport, a high-speed railway station, and a comprehensive public transportation system. The city is well-connected to other parts of China and the world, making it easy for visitors to travel to and from Xi'an.

7. The Subway System

Xi'an has a modern subway system that covers most of the city. The subway is a convenient and affordable way to get around the city, and it is also a great way to experience the local culture.

8. The Bicycle Sharing System

Xi'an has a popular bicycle sharing system that allows visitors to rent bicycles and explore the city at their own pace. The bicycles are available at many locations throughout the city, and they are a great way to get some exercise and see the sights.

9. The Local Cuisine

Xi'an is famous for its delicious cuisine, which includes dishes such as roujiamo (Chinese hamburger), yangrou paomo (pita bread soaked in lamb soup), and biangbiang noodles. The food is known for its bold flavors and unique ingredients, and it is a must-try for visitors to Xi'an.

10. The Local Markets

Xi'an has many local markets, such as the Muslim Quarter, the Shuyuanmen Cultural Street, and the Huimin Street. These markets are a great place to buy souvenirs, sample local food, and experience the local culture.

Why Modern City Lovers Will Go Crazy

Because Xi'an:

• Has a modern and vibrant city center with many high-rise buildings, shopping malls, and restaurants.
• Is a hub for innovation and technology, with many high-tech companies and research institutions.
• Offers a wide range of entertainment options, such as theaters, cinemas, and nightclubs.

That's why Lonely Planet says: "Xi'an is a city that combines ancient history with modern innovation."

11. The Terracotta Army

The Terracotta Army is one of the most famous archaeological discoveries in the world. It is a collection of life-sized clay sculptures that were buried with Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the 3rd century BC. Each warrior has a unique facial expression and hairstyle, making it a truly remarkable sight.

12. The Shaanxi History Museum

The Shaanxi History Museum is one of the largest and most comprehensive museums in China. It houses a vast collection of historical artifacts and cultural relics from the Shaanxi region, including pottery, bronze ware, jade, and calligraphy.

13. The Big Wild Goose Pagoda

The Big Wild Goose Pagoda is an ancient Buddhist pagoda that was built in the 7th century. It is a symbol of Xi'an's rich cultural heritage and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The pagoda is known for its beautiful architecture and historical significance.

14. The Small Wild Goose Pagoda

The Small Wild Goose Pagoda is another ancient Buddhist pagoda that was built in the 8th century. It is smaller than the Big Wild Goose Pagoda but is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The pagoda is known for its elegant architecture and historical significance.

Why History Buffs Will Love Xi'an

Because you can:

• Visit the Terracotta Army and see the life-sized clay sculptures that were buried with Emperor Qin Shi Huang.
• Explore the Shaanxi History Museum and learn about the history and culture of the Shaanxi region.
• Visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and the Small Wild Goose Pagoda and admire their beautiful architecture and historical significance.

That's why National Geographic calls Xi'an a "city where time stands still."

15. Roujiamo (Chinese Hamburger)

Roujiamo is a popular local dish in Xi'an that consists of a pita bread filled with chopped meat, usually pork or beef. The meat is marinated in a special sauce and then slow-cooked until it is tender and flavorful. Roujiamo is a delicious and convenient meal that is perfect for on-the-go.

16. Yangrou Paomo (Pita Bread Soaked in Lamb Soup)

Yangrou Paomo is another popular local dish in Xi'an that consists of a pita bread that is torn into small pieces and then soaked in a lamb soup. The soup is made with lamb bones, spices, and vegetables, and it is very flavorful. Yangrou Paomo is a hearty and satisfying meal that is perfect for cold weather.

17. Biangbiang Noodles

Biangbiang noodles are a type of hand-pulled noodles that are popular in Xi'an. The noodles are wide and thick, and they are usually served with a spicy sauce, vegetables, and meat. Biangbiang noodles are known for their unique name, which is a onomatopoeic word that describes the sound of the noodles being pulled.

Why Foodies Must Visit

Because you'll:

• Try roujiamo, yangrou paomo, and biangbiang noodles, which are some of the most famous local dishes in Xi'an.
• Taste other local specialties, such as roujiamo, yangrou paomo, and biangbiang noodles.
• Explore the local markets and sample a variety of local snacks and desserts.

That's why the BBC filmed "Xi'an: A Century on the Tip of Your Tongue".

18. The Qujiang New Area

The Qujiang New Area is a modern development area in Xi'an that is known for its beautiful architecture, cultural attractions, and modern amenities. The area is home to many high-rise buildings, shopping malls, restaurants, and hotels, as well as cultural attractions such as the Tang Paradise and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda Scenic Area.

19. The Xi'an International Horticultural Exposition

The Xi'an International Horticultural Exposition was held in Xi'an in 2011. It was a large-scale international horticultural exhibition that attracted millions of visitors from around the world. The exhibition featured a variety of gardens, pavilions, and cultural activities, and it was a great success.

20. The Xi'an Olympic Sports Center

The Xi'an Olympic Sports Center is a large-scale sports complex that was built for the 14th National Games of the People's Republic of China, which were held in Xi'an in 2021. The complex includes a stadium, an arena, a natatorium, and other sports facilities, and it is one of the largest and most modern sports complexes in China.

Why Tech Enthusiasts Will Be Excited

Because with the development of new industries such as artificial intelligence, aerospace, and new energy, Xi'an:

• Is home to many high-tech companies and research institutions.
• Offers a wide range of job opportunities in the tech field.
• Is a great place to experience the latest technological innovations.

No wonder Forbes named Xi'an one of the "Top 10 Smart Cities in China".