China - Xi'an (西安)

Xi'an (西安), the capital of Shaanxi province, is one of the oldest cities in China, famous as the starting point of the Silk Road and, most notably, the home of the Terracotta Army. Its atmosphere is a fascinating blend of ancient Han Chinese culture and strong Islamic influence.

Must-Do Activities in Xi'an

I. Historical Wonders (The Essentials)

Activity	Description	Practical Tip
Visit the Terracotta Army (兵马俑 Bīngmǎyǒng)	The single most important site. This vast collection of life-sized terracotta soldiers, horses, and chariots was created to protect the first Emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang, in the afterlife.	The site is about an hour outside the city. Take a direct tourist bus (Bus 306/Tourist Line 5) from Xi'an Train Station to save money on private tours.
Bike or Walk the Xi'an City Wall	One of the most complete and best-preserved ancient city walls in China. It forms a perfect rectangle around the old city center.	Rent a bike (single or tandem) at one of the four main gates (the South Gate is best). The entire loop is about 14 km (8.7 miles) and takes 1.5–2 hours to cycle.
Explore the Big Wild Goose Pagoda (大雁塔 Dàyàntǎ)	A beautiful, 7-story pagoda built during the Tang Dynasty to house Buddhist scriptures brought back from India by the monk Xuanzang.	Evening Bonus: Watch the Asia's largest musical fountain show in the square north of the pagoda (various times, usually starting around 8<30> PM).
Visit the Shaanxi History Museum	One of the top museums in China, containing a comprehensive collection of artifacts from the Zhou, Qin, Han, and Tang dynasties (when Xi'an was the capital).	Entry is free, but you must reserve tickets online a few days in advance as they often sell out.

II. Culture and Religion

Activity	Description	Practical Tip
Wander the Muslim Quarter (回民街 Huímín Jiē)	This bustling, narrow area is the heart of Xi'an's Hui (Chinese Muslim) community and is famous for its incredible street food and vibrant atmosphere.	Go in the late afternoon/early evening when all the stalls are open and the atmosphere is most chaotic and fun.
See the Great Mosque (大清真寺 Dà Qīngzhēnsì)	One of the oldest and most beautiful mosques in China. Its architecture is a unique and serene blend of traditional Chinese temple design and Islamic functionality.	It is a peaceful escape right in the middle of the noisy Muslim Quarter. Modest dress is appreciated.
Drum Tower and Bell Tower	These two prominent towers mark the city center. The Drum Tower is especially notable for its drum display and its proximity to the Muslim Quarter.	You can buy a combo ticket to climb both towers, offering nice views of the city center.
Small Wild Goose Pagoda (小雁塔)	Less famous than its "Big" counterpart, but the surrounding park is quieter and more peaceful. It also hosts the Xi'an Museum.	Check the schedule for a traditional shadow puppet show or bell ringing ceremony here.

III. Food and Dining

Activity	Description	Practical Tip
Try Roujiamo (肉夹馍)	The Xi'an "Hamburger"—shredded, seasoned meat (usually lamb or beef) stuffed into a pita-like flatbread.	It is the ultimate local snack and easily found in the Muslim Quarter.
Eat Yangrou Paomo (羊肉泡馍)	A signature dish: lamb broth served with pieces of pita bread (mómo). The traditional (and fun) way to eat it is to tear the bread into tiny pieces yourself before the broth is poured over it.	This is best experienced at a dedicated Paomo restaurant in the Muslim Quarter.
Guan Tang Bao (灌汤包)	Thin-skinned dumplings filled with meat and soup (similar to Shanghai's Xiaolongbao, but often larger and served with local spices).	Often eaten with a straw to sip the hot soup before eating the wrapper.

IV. Excursions

Activity	Description	Practical Tip
Mount Hua (华山 Huà Shān)	A stunning, dramatic, and sacred Taoist mountain about 2 hours by high-speed rail. It is famous for its steep paths and incredible views.	This is a full-day or overnight trip. Be prepared for serious hiking, or use the cable cars to skip the most challenging climbs.