Joanna James
A whimsical settlement anchored in the past with plenty of modern ways of enjoying its delightful quirks and sensory indulgences, Xi'an is a living storybook that will spur your own self-discovery. Here are some of the more subtle allurements of this dynastic fort city.
From jaunty tuk-tuk tours that introduce you to decadent local dishes to mind-boggling historic monuments, intricate ethnic costumes, and dramatic mountain ranges to explore, Xi'an combines imperial grace with tourist-savvy experiences that give visitors an intimate taste of its unique culture. For instance, tourists can roam antique corridors in elegant Hanfu costumes, piece together China's rich past at the gracious Shaanxi History Museum and pause amidst the neon city blaze to listen to the reverberating "performance" of the Bell and Drum Towers, useful relics of the Ming Dynasty. However, few experiences are as bizarrely epic as bumping along the ancient stonework of the City Wall on a bicycle at sunrise and sunset, getting arrested by spellbinding views, and picking up a few history tidbits along the way!
A picturesque enclave lined with traditional calligraphy shops, boutique hotels, and tea houses, featuring the sweepingly majestic architecture of the Ming and Qing dynasties, this cultural street is ideal if you would like to step back in time. This storybook district brims with artisan marvels and ancient curios wherever you roam, from masterful paper-cut artwork, jade jewellery, and intricate handicrafts to shadow play figurines, face-painting palettes, and heirlooms inlaid with precious metals. Due to it being less of a touristy region, Shuyuanmen is less crowded and more serene with no pressure to haggle or buy, making it easier to enjoy the surreal facades, precious ornaments, and ingenious handicrafts adorning the Old-World flagstone streets. If you get hungry, Zui Chang'an is hidden in a charming alleyway and is ideal for some delicious food with an Instagram-worthy twist, such as appetising paintbrushes dipped in edible ink sauce!
Whether it's learning the graceful art of calligraphy at the Tangbo Art Museum, getting your adrenaline fix at Mount Hua, or ending your eventful day with an atmospheric street food tour, you need to start your day right at the local 'early market'. Nestled at the foot of the great City Wall, this charming marketplace will liven up your morning with its pretty street stalls, fragrantly fresh local produce, and decadent baked goods that will satiate your breakfast cravings. If you're on the lookout for prime Xi'an accommodation near the city's most sought-after allurements, venture no further than lyf Dayanta Xi'an.
From the breathtaking Great Mosque of Xi'an to the warren of fascinating stores selling everything from spicy lamb skewers and crispy grilled tofu to traditional souvenirs and household paraphernalia, the Muslim Quarter is a joyous feast for the senses. If you're looking for off-the-beaten-path insight into one of its stunning ethnic landmarks, visit the 'hidden' Daxuexi Mosque, a small yet delightful setting of architectural exquisiteness and nature-kissed serenity.
While the Muslim Quarter hosts a superabundance of renowned eateries, serving up every imaginable concoction to tantalise the most adventurous tastebuds, this under-the-radar artisanal ice cream parlour takes the cake for the most jaw-dropping flavour profiles! Featuring bizarre combinations like 'black rice vinegar' and 'Old Tofu' that taste surprisingly amazing, as well as your more traditional varieties, this funky little dessert spot is a must-try!
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
