Xi'an
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Nowadays, of course, Xi’an is mostly renowned as the perfect base from where to visit the famous Terracotta Army, yet beside this exceptional attraction, the city has many more cultural and historical landmarks to discover.

Brief History
Xi’an, or Chang’an as it was once known, is believed to have been founded over 3,000 years ago; however, records were only officially kept from the 8th century BC onwards so it is from this time that much of its detailed history is known. This was the political, economic and cultural capital through the reign of 73 emperors, the most famous of which was Qin Shi Huang
Along with such admirable cities like Rome, Athens, and Cairo, Xi’an is considered one of the capitals of our world’s ancient cultures. Birthplace of the ancient Silk Road as the original trade route which linked East with West, and Xi’an is a place where the influence of Islam is still very much visible. At the height of its prosperity, this was the largest city in the world.
Towards the end of the Tang Dynasty, a new capital was proclaimed and Xi’an was left almost totally abandoned. The city’s walls, built during the Ming Dynasty, were meant to protect the treasures and inhabitants who were left behind in the city and is the historic center which you can visit today.
During the 20th century, much info was added to the history of Xi’an, when archaeological excavations uncovered the Lantian Man

Highlights
Here are some of the best places to visit when in Xi'an.
The Museum of Qin Terracotta Warriors and Horses
Irrespective of how interesting the city is, and how much it can offer visitors, the Terracotta Army is still the most popular attraction in Xi’an. The sculpted warriors are rated as one of China’s top 5 highlights, drawing more than two million foreign visitors a year. The UNESCO-listed site is found about an hour and a half’s drive out of town, and comprises over 2,000 warriors, 100 chariots, and over 30,000 pieces of artillery. The museum is very extensive and requires quite a bit of walking, so do wear comfy shoes. You’ll no doubt see what looks like construction work on site, as various pits are still being unearthed. It is believed the soldiers will quadruple in numbers by the time the excavation work is complete.City Walls

Shaanxi History Museum
This may not be one of the best museums you’ll ever visit, yet in China it is still considered the most important and most comprehensive. It showcases the history of the province (from Neolithic times right up to the present day), and displays priceless artifacts spanning innumerable dynasties. The museum grants free entry to the first 4,000 visitors each day on a first come, first served basis. Bring ID to claim your spot and get here early.Muslim Quarter
Arguably the most enticing part in Xi’an is found just behind the Drum Tower. The city’s Muslim Quarter is a collection of streets brimming with inviting smells, sights and sounds, where you can find an array of eating and shopping options. This colorful section of town boasts a carnival feel at any time of day or night, which actually belies its historic role. This was the actual starting point of the Ancient Silk Road, and an area where traders have been converging for at least a thousand years. Although it may be daunting for those who don’t like big crowds, it is still an absolute must-experience when in town. Unsurprisingly, this is also where you’ll find the Great Mosque detailed below.Great Mosque

Tomb of Emperor Jingdi
This is often referred to as the mini Terracotta Army yet despite its diminutive size it is still a very worthwhile place to visit. Newer and much-better displayed than the Terracotta Army, this incredible site consists of 50,000 human and animal figurines, and boasts a great walking path that brings you right over the burial sites. Conveniently located near the airport, this attraction requires only an hour of your time, so it’s very easy to include it as a last-day activity on your way out of town.Giant Wild Goose Pagoda

Both the Giant and Small pagodas were severely damaged during the great earthquake of 1556, yet neither one has yet been restored to its former glory. Nevertheless, both are an impressive site and boast an interesting history, so do take a guided tour to get the most out of your visit.
The Towers of Xi’an

Nearby is where you’ll find the Drum Tower of Xi'an, where dozens of impressive drums dating back centuries, are on show. This attraction is brought to life every day thanks to incredibly beautiful drum performances which are put on every hour (at half past). A visit here is included in your Bell Tower admission ticket.

Dining & Shopping

Around these four blocks is also where you’ll find the best souvenir stalls in town. Of course, this being China and all, you’ll undoubtedly stumble across many multi-story shopping malls, yet unless you’re in the market for new clothing, accessories, shoes, or cosmetics, they may not be worth much of your time.
Accommodation
Xi’an offers quite an impressive array of accommodation choices for travelers of all budgets. Even within the city’s walls, normally the priciest area in all historic cities, you’ll find at least half a dozen youth hostels offering very comfortable beds at great prices.Budget
$ 4.00 USDXian Han Tang House
$ 19 USDXian Ibis Hotel
$ 19 USDXian Han Tang Yi International Youth Hostel
$ 29 USDXian 7 Sages Youth Hostel International
$ 10 USDXian Ancient City Youth Hostel
$ 4.00 USDXian Alley Youth Hostel
Comfortable
$ 54 USDCitadines Central Xi'an
$ 36 USDRamada Xi'an Bell Tower
$ 41 USDBell Tower Hotel
$ 117 USDMercure On Renmin Square Xian Hotel
$ 63 USDXian Grand Noble Hotel
$ 39 USDAtour Hotel Xian Yanta Branch
Luxurious
$ 140 USDSofitel Xian On Renmin Square
$ 68 USDGrand Mercure Xian on Renmin Square
$ 59 USDXian Grand Soluxe International Hotel
$ 120 USDXian Tang Dynasty Art Garden Hotel
$ 104 USDHilton Xi'an
$ 119 USDThe Westin Xian Hotel
How to Get There
Xi’an is the most centrally located city in all of China and is well connected to all major domestic destinations and the most important Asian hubs such as Bangkok, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Tokyo. The city’s international airport, Xi'an Xianyang, is an hour’s drive from the city and can be reached by Airport Express bus, public bus, and taxi.How to Get Out and About
For the great majority of tourists, the best and most convenient way to get around is by taxi. Rides are relatively inexpensive, although do note that you’ll always need to have your destination written in simplified Chinese if you hope to actually end up at the right place. Most of what you’ll want to see in town lies within the city’s ancient walls.For day trips outside of the city, we recommend you join an organized tour as you’ll need at least some local script knowledge if you hope to catch the right train and bus connections.
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Author: Laura Pattara. Last updated: Apr 13, 2015
Pictures of Xi'an

