Over
a period of more than 2000 years, Xi'an was the capital for eleven dynasties
in China. Along with Rome and Constantinople, this city was a world leader
in culture and trade The city of Xi'an with the population 6 million was the
first and the oldest cities in China to open up its doors to the Ancient
world and had become a great source of attraction for the tourist. It lies
in the center, to the south of the plain, enjoying a favorable geographical
location, encircled by water and hills.
The city has come up as the major industrial zone, specializing in the
aviation and textile industries.
Best time to Visit Xian
Xi'an, is located in the plains of Guanzhong encompassed by mountains in
the south and the Wei River in the north.
The region is throng with tourist during the summer months. The city is
supported by the visitors especially during the month of May to September
when the weather is quite pleasant. The coldest month here is January, with
an average temperature of O degrees C and the hottest month is June, with an
average temperature of 26 degrees C.
As such the city is blessed with a pleasant climate most of the year round
therefore one can plan a visit to the region at any time of the year.
Xian Temptations
The Terracotta Army
Xian, lying southwest of China about 885 km, is home to 2200 year army of
terracotta soldiers. This troop consists more than 8000 life-size soldiers
along with chariots and horses. Qin Army Vault museum holds the attraction
of this unique and beautiful treasures.
The Xian army retrieved 40 km east of the town represents only a fraction
of the total buried soldiers there. It is worth noticing that each soldier
is based on an actual coexisting person. One just can’t bear to ignore
the sight with such magnificent array of soldiers.
Big
Wild Goose Pagoda/ A tunnel
There is a vast amalgam and impact of diverse cultures and religions over
the society. With a large part of the population being Muslims, the Arabic
and Persian, strong architectural influences are perceptible in the
buildings of Xian.
The Big Wild Goose Pagoda holds the charm of underground amusement center
in the park. A massive tunnel festooned with light lead to rows of chambers-
a place described as bizarre.
The Famen Temple
The temple houses at the exquisite statue of Lord Buddha, one of the most
stunning sights. Lots of devotees and the practicing monks along with
thousands of tourist sojourn the place to pay their homage as well as to
marvel at the Tang dynasty treasures that are kept there.
Mount Huashan
The landscape around Xi'an also showcases some of the great mountain
attractions. There are the arrays of mountains at the countryside, most
famous among them is ‘Mount Huashan’-a great hang out and a break
from the city life.
Xi'an one of the most pleasant cities in China and an ideal place to break
the journey between Beijing and Shanghai.
Xian's University
Aside from being a major tourist destination and historical city, today
Xi'an has also immerged as a major educational institution with many
universities at its store.
The Xian's University is considered to be one of the best in China as a
result, the city has a large student population who come here from all over
the country and also contributes to the cultural life of the city.
Mode of Transportation
By Air
Xiguan city airport lies at a distance of 40 km northwest of Xi'an.
Northwest Airways, China United Airways and Dragon Air all operate from the
airport. There are daily flights to and from Xi'an to Beijing, Guangzhou,
Chengdu, Guilin and Qingdao.
There are also flights running to Hong Kong, Macau and Japan from the city.
By Rail
Xi'an railway station is situated in the northeast of the town, just
outside the city. There are direct trains running from Xi'an to Beijing,
Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Hefei, Qingdao and Urumuqi.
Registration of passport documents is very important here, so it is
advisable to carry along with you all your important documents when
travelling from the city.
By Road
The main long distance bus station is opposite the railway station in the
northeast of the city. There are buses from Xian to Hushan Mountain taking
12 hours, Zhengzhou -12 hours and Yinchuan -15 hours.
The nightlife at Xian
Hotels in the city have bars and disco facility that add charisma to the
nightlife in Xian. Back Street, within the city walls, located west of South
Gate, has a range of coffee bars and restaurants, some open 24 hours. These
restaurants are a great source of entertainment as they facilitate their own
bands, some play just pianos, one can also enjoy singing songs along with.
Xian as a Shopping Hub
The Bell Tower is surrounded by the few shopping malls. Back street towards
the Mosque have lots of "antique" and curio shops selling Chinese
paintings, calligraphy, old opium pipes, lots of replicas of terracotta
warriors, all are reasonable priced along with some beautiful souvenir
items.
