Joanna James
There is a lot to see and do when you're at one of the oldest major cities of an ancient civilisation on the planet. You are surrounded by delicious food, fine arts, and customs that reflect a few thousand years of history, in addition to stone age settlements and tall brick pagodas.
Giant Wild Goose Pagoda illuminates the night sky with its leaning, symbolic design. The tower has a graceful square-cone shape that reaches a height of 64 metres. Buddhists from all over the world come to visit this section of the Da Ci'en Temple Complex. The seven-storey building's beauty, when observed from a distance, will truly blow your mind.
Check out the pagoda after dark when the lights contrast beautifully with the starry sky. The building, which is tilted to the west, towers over the trees and is visible from quite a distance away. Take pictures of the colourful brick building and the colourful steps leading up to it. A smaller version of it was built in A.D. 652, and then a larger, more impressive one was completed 52 years later.
The Bell Tower, with its classic tiered construction dating to the 14th century, is one of the most recognisable landmarks in Xi'an's city centre. Its levels are filled with exhibition spaces that showcase historical items and offer breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding area. Come witness the splendour of the building illuminated at night.
The Terracotta Army, with its hundreds of figures lined up in rows, is truly one of the world's most impressive archaeological monuments. These sculptured warriors, horses, and chariots represent the forces of Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China, and they guard his tomb. Learn more about the massive scale of these interesting artefacts by visiting Terracotta Army during your stay in Xian.
As one of China's oldest and most well-preserved municipal fortifications, Xi'an City Wall is a must-see attraction during your stay here. The Ming Dynasty walls enclose 8,960 acres and date back to the 14th century. Explore the gates when it's dark when the lights on the towers and bridges really shine.
The four main gates are named after Chinese concepts that translate into eternal joy, harmony, and peace. Most elaborate is the southern gate. Admire the towers as well as the bridge spanning the moat and you can even take a break in the nearby Xi'an Huancheng Park.
If you do find yourself looking for a bit of respite from exploring the city, there are plenty of Xi'an hotels such as the Grand Park Xian where you can seek fine accommodation.
When it comes to Islamic places of worship in China, the Great Mosque of Xi'an is right up there with the oldest and most revered. It was established during the Tang dynasty and its three acres of land are home to a number of buildings and beautiful landscaping. Wander through the four beautifully planted gardens and take in the calm atmosphere.
The mosque's unique appearance is a result of its fusion of Islamic and Chinese styles. Be sure to take note that the minarets plus domes of a regular mosque have been replaced by a Chinese pavilion. Picturesque pagodas that resemble Buddhist temples more than Islamic mosques await your camera.
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