If you wanted to get a glimpse of the long and eventful history of China, Xian is where you’ll find it all. Known for its historical buildings, temples and museums, the city offers a fascinating blend of cultures from 13 different dynasties. It’s like walking back through history, a sensation that never leaves you as you explore these 6 highlights during your stay in Xian.
1. The Terracotta Army
Located in the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang, the Terracotta Army is one of the most significant archaeological discoveries in the world. It features a collection of life-sized statues that depict soldiers, chariots and horses that were buried with the first emperor of China. Of the mausoleum’s 3 pits, pit 1 is the largest. But it’s not just the sheer number of statues that’s impressive – it’s the intricate attention to detail that really makes you marvel at the extent of human artistry!
2. Shaanxi History Museum
If you’re a history enthusiast staying at any of the Xian apartments, this historic museum is just a short walk away. Opened to visitors since 1991, this Tang dynasty-style museum holds over 110,000 artefacts and documents that detail the city’s culture and history. You’re guaranteed to lose track of time as you browse through its galleries and participate in many of the museum’s activities for an immersive trip back into the past.
3. The Bell Tower
Having a massive 36 metre Bell Tower at its centre only makes Xian more iconic, making this another of its must-visit attractions accessible from any of the city’s trendy accommodations like lyf Dayanta Xian. Spanning 12 storeys in an area of 1377 square metres, it is the largest bell tower structure in the country. The iconic tower already looks majestic in the daytime, but visit it at night when it’s brightly lit, and you’ll find it difficult to take your eyes off the brilliant structure.
4. Giant Wild Goose Pagoda
As one of the oldest Buddhist structures in the country, this colossal temple leaves no doubt about China’s rich spiritual heritage. Its detailed architecture reflects traditional Buddhist temples, but the scale of it all is truly incomprehensible. While entry into the temple is limited, there’s one other daring thing you could do – climb the pagoda and treat yourself to impeccable views of the city, where you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world!
5. Ancient City Wall of Xian
This is likely the first landmark you’ll come across when you arrive in Xian. As one of the largest and best-preserved military defence walls in the world, the ancient wall stands as a stark reminder of the sheer power and might of China’s military forces. The wall’s circumference is a staggering 13.7 with a watchtower at every 120 metres, and it stands at 12 metres. It makes for another great vantage point from which to view the city, just like the ancient armies did when they watched over Xian as its guardians.
6. Mount Hua
While it’s not technically within Xian, Mount Hua is one of the most sacred mountains in China, and you’ll never have a better opportunity to pay a visit. Its spectacular scenery and majestic peaks have earned it the nickname “First Mountain Under Heaven”. The mountain is also steeped in legends, so much so that you can feel a deep sense of history as you go mountain climbing, or simply settle down for a picnic.
Xian is a city rich in history and culture and is the perfect gateway to exploring China’s storied past. It’s where impressive architecture, ancient artefacts and a deep heritage converge to preserve an era that held an impeccable grandeur.
