Joanna James
If you haven’t taken some pictures to post, it’s like you didn’t even go – regardless, it’s nice to bring back a few digital memories to keep the ones in your mind fresh. If you’ve never been to Xian before here is a list of some of the best places to capture a few snaps.
Looking for a great place to stay in Xian? Grand Park Xian is probably the best among all Xian China hotels. And it’s quite close to the first place you need to visit while in the city. Xian City Wall is undoubtedly the most photographed site in the city. It’s the perfect place to capture amazing stills at any time of day or night. The wall is quite massive and is lit up beautifully at night and the photo-ops it presents are endless.
The Xian Muslim Quarter is the centre of the Muslim community in the city. Over 60,000 descendants of the original traders that made the perilous journey from Arabia and Persia along the Silk Road 2000 years ago still call Xian home. The Muslim Quarter is most famous for its 500m street packed with stalls and shops where vendors sell delicious and aromatic food. You are bound to snap a few amazing candids here.
If you want to get a bird’s eye view of the Muslim quarter head to the Drum Tower which is located nearby – at the top of the tower you’ll be presented with a great view of everything surrounding it and a glimpse of the masterful way the city is laid out. The drum tower itself is a testament to the traditional architecture of the Tang Dynasty. The Belltower is also another monument you need to photograph – especially when it is lit-up after dark.
Defu alley has existed since the 5th century CE and was revamped to give it a traditional, yet modern look in the 90s. Now the alley is the centre of nightlife in the city. Defu alley is home to over 40 bars, teahouses, and restaurants; all of which have a very eye-catching look, especially when lit up and packed with people after nightfall. Without a doubt, it’s the best place to photograph people enjoying the night in Xian.
Every day at 8 pm if you go near the Big Goose Pagoda you can witness the largest music fountain in Asia in all its glory. The fountain covers an area of 20,000 square meters and is quite stunning to behold. With the giant pagoda in the background, you can take a few stunning shots for sure.
Tang Paradise was once an imperial garden. It is located 8km outside the city but is quite easily reached. The revamped garden is spread across 165acres and is landscaped to perfection. A willow-lined lake and the water film are the park’s main attractions
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.
