Xi’an is one of China’s oldest cities and the eastern starting point of the storied Silk Road. With the caravans that rolled in and out of the city came a mix of cultures, people and goods, and modern-day Xi’an still feels like a multi-cultural melting pot. Gleaming skyscrapers and colourful wooden temples stand side by side with night markets, beautiful gardens and world-class shopping malls.
FOOD & DRINK
As the starting point of a trade route inundated by flavours from Central Asia, the Middle East and beyond, to this day Xi’an’s food scene is heavily influenced by its connection to the Silk Road. To make the most of this culinary crossroads, try everything. Local Shaanxi cuisine includes specialities like biang biang noodles and roujiamo, while the city’s Muslim Quarter is bursting with food markets and street vendors. Spicy lamb broths, deep fried pastries, classic steamed buns, hearty noodles…you have arrived in food heaven.
HISTORY
Xi’an was a capital city for over a thousand years and hosted 13 dynasties that shaped Chinese civilisation. Many of the monuments, landmarks and temples from that period remain, making the city a vast architectural and historic playground. Most obvious are the enormous ancient city walls, complete with imposing guard towers and stunning city views –a walk along the ramparts is a must do. The enticingly named Big Wild Goose Pagoda is another iconic sight, a graceful pagoda originally built to house Buddhist scriptures.
CULTURE
For a taste of local culture beyond cuisine and history, Xi’an offers a rich patchwork of art and music, museums and craft. Take in a Qinqiang Opera, an expressive style native to Shaanxi province. Be swept up by charming tales told through puppetry, a traditional storytelling artform. And visit Shuyuanmen Cultural Street where you’ll find local artists selling paper crafts, hand-carved seals, traditional calligraphy and antique-style souvenirs.
Stare down 8000 ancient soldiers – if you dare. The incredible Terracotta Army is an archaeological wonder, and a testament to China’s incredible history of craftsmanship.
