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Xian China

INTRODUCTION

Xi'an, in ancient times known as Chang'an, is situated in central China, in the southern part of Guanzhong Plain. One of the oldest cities in Chinese history, Xi’an is the capital of the Shaanxi province. The city is bounded by the Qinling Mountains to the north and the Weihe River to the south. In former times, Xi'an was a major crossroads on the trading routes from eastern China to central Asia as well as the beginning point of the famed Silk Road. In recent years, this over 3,000 year old city has developed into one of China's major tourist attractions. In 1974, archaeologists stumbled across a treasure trove on the city's eastern outskirts: an army of terracotta warrior figurines in battle formation standing in underground vaults. Hailed as the greatest archaeological find of the 20th century, the terracotta warriors attract visitors from around the world flocking to Xi'an to experience its historical and cultural heritage.

HISTORY

The city of Xi'an played a significant part in Chinese history. It served as the imperial capital for 12 ancient imperial dynasties, from 1,000 BC to 1,000 AD. Xian’s history began in the Stone Age, about 3, 000 years ago, when the Western Zhou Dynasty founded its capital at Haojing, today’s Xi'an. Barbarian invader caused the collapse of the Western Zhou Dynasty in 771 BC. The Eastern Zhou Dynasty began and established its capital at Luoyang. In 221 BC, emperor Qinshihuang unified the country and built a strong feudal society, with its capital at Xiangyang, north of Xi'an. Qin was soon disbanded and Han took over the power. The Han rulers followed Qin and also based their rule in Xi'an, ruling the city from 206 BC to 220 AD, when the city began to flourish. Xi'an served as the starting point of the world famous Silk Road, a significant trade route linking ancient China and the central Asian and European countries. But it was not until the Tang Dynasty that Chang’an (today’s Xi'an) came into its own. Chang’an was one of the biggest international cities at that time, a great metropolis of equal importance with Great Rome. The Tang Dynasty witnessed advances in many fields and the capital city boomed. Being built with grand, symmetrical layouts, it became a model for city design at that time. After the fall of the Tang Dynasty, Xi'an went into a decline and its tenure as capital of China came to an end. Although Xi'an still played an important role as a commercial center on the Silk Road in the later dynasties, it never regained its political or cultural importance.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Transport: As Xi'an is relatively small and compact, the city is easy to negotiate on foot. Most attractions can be reached by bus. When taking a taxi, make sure the meter is turned on - sometimes drivers overcharge with fixed rates. Another option is to hire a bicycle, though you should be careful on the busy streets.

Climate: The best time to travel to Xi'an is during spring or autumn, when the weather is relatively dry and pleasant. The city has a very wet monsoon season between July and September, and winters are rather cold.

ATTRACTIONS

Xi'an has a great number of precious relics and historical sites. The city’s main attractions include the Qin Terracotta Army Museum, the Shaanxi Provincial History Museum, the Ancient City Wall, the Banpo Village Remains and the Great Mosque. Another worthwhile experience is an excursion to the Huaqing Hot Springs.

RESTAURANTS

Defachang Restaurant - Established in 1936, this restaurant has a history of 70 years in providing fine dumplings and other Chinese specialties.

Lao Sun Jia - The original restaurant, opened in 1898, is one of the best places to try Xi'an's most celebrated dish, 'yangrou paomo'. There are now three branches, two of them on Dong Dajie. The branch with the best reputation at the moment is located inside a large hotel.

Jiasan Guantang Baozi - The most famous of the Jia Brothers' restaurants, not to be missed with its huge blue arch over the entrance and a wall festooned with photographs of Xi'an notables - TV hosts, writers and musicians. The specialty dish is 'guantang baozi'.

NIGHTLIFE

One of the highlights of Xian’s nightlife is the famous Tang Dynasty Dinner Show, a combination of food and entertainment that showcases the costumes, music and dancing from China's golden age, the Tang dynasty (618 - 907). The show starts with an ancient Chinese musical instrument ensemble while you dine, followed by the cultural dance segment.

There is also a number of trendy bars in the city center such as 1+1 Bar on Dong Da Jie and Koo La La. Defuxiang is a street flanked by cafes.

LODGING

Grand New World Hotel - Located in the very center of Xi'an, this hotel offers spectacular city views. You can enjoy the comforts and leisure activities offered by the hotel such as an indoor swimming-pool, an open tennis court, a gym and a sauna.

Aurum International Hotel - This luxurious 4-star hotel is located in the commercial center of Xi’an, with excellent transport links. The hotel is close to the local government and Xi’an Xincheng Square.

Canaan International Hotel - In the very heart of Xian city, this hotel is close to most of the city attractions.