Joanna James
As one of China's most visited UNESCO Heritage Sites, Xi'an is a historic city like no other. From exploring the iconic Terracotta Warriors to enjoying a walk along the city wall, here are 5 of the best ways to spend your time during a getaway in Xi'an.
As the main reason why most tourists visit Xi'an in the first place, no holiday in this ancient city would be complete without touring the heritage site that made it famous. Hailed as one of the biggest archeological discoveries of the century, the tomb of China's first emperor contained thousands of terracotta warriors who were to accompany him into the afterlife as they did when he was ruling China. More than 2000 years old, the archeological site has become a tourist magnet over the years and it's easy to see why when gazing upon these clay figures with facial expressions, weaponry and clothing that distinguish each soldier.
Called the best-preserved and the most extensive ancient city wall in the country, the Xi'an Ancient City Wall was built during the 14th century by Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang of the Ming Dynasty. Having stood tall in spite of the political and historical ups and downs of the region, the best way to discover its length and scale is to enjoy a bike ride or a leisurely stroll along the wall's periphery. Easily accessible to those based at Grand Park Xian and other similar hotels in Xian China, cultural tours of the wall are also organized by local travel agents.
Taking visitors on a trip back in time to the golden era of Chinese history, the Shaanxi History Museum is another highlight visitors should tour during a visit to Xi'an. Ranked among the Top 10 museums in all of China, the large collections of relics, and artefacts on show at the venue delve not only into the 1839 Opium War but also the reign of the Qing Dynasty and ape men living in China.
As a sacred venue that draws countless pilgrims from all across China and the Buddhist world at large, spending time at the Big Wild Goose Pagoda is another must for first-time visitors. Housing religious relics Xuanzang brought from his travels in India, this larger-than-life pagoda is also an architectural marvel in its own right. Built without using even an ounce of cement, the traditional architectural elements of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda are evident even from afar.
Culture buffs and those with a passion for ancient Chinese costumes should not miss the chance to don The Hanfu during a vacation in Xi'an. As the traditional ethnic costume worn by the Han Chinese community, it is one of the oldest garments styles in China. Xi'an's legacy as a city ruled by the Han Dynasty means travellers can not only try on this unique costume at a local tailor's but also snap some Insta-worthy shots to share with the world.
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