Xi’an: Where Ancient Grandeur Meets Modern Vitality
Nestled in the heart of China’s Shaanxi Province, Xi’an stands as a living testament to over 3,100 years of history, earning its reputation as the “Cradle of Chinese Civilization.” Once known as Chang’an, this city served as the capital for 13 dynasties—including the Qin, Han, and Tang—and was the eastern terminus of the legendary Silk Road, bridging cultures from Asia to Europe. Today, Xi’an captivates visitors with its seamless blend of imperial grandeur and contemporary energy, offering an unforgettable journey through time.
Why Visit?
Xi’an’s allure lies in its duality: a city where history breathes through every cobblestone yet pulses with modern life. Savor biangbiang noodles in lively markets, witness twilight ceremonies at the Bell Tower, or unwind in Huaqing Palace’s ancient hot springs. With spring and autumn offering mild weather, Xi’an invites travelers to walk in the footsteps of emperors, traders, and monks—a journey where every corner whispers tales of glory and innovation.
For those seeking a gateway to China’s soul, Xi’an is not just a destination—it’s an epic experience.
Recommended attractions around Xi’an Jiaotong University (Xingqing Campus):
- Xingqinggong Park (兴庆宫公园) https://www.xingqinggong.com/: It is located at No. 55, Xianning West Road, Beilin District, Xi’an City, close to Xi’an Jiaotong University. The park covers an area of 780 acres and the lake covers an area of about 150 acres, which is a paradise in the city. Every spring, tulips, peonies and other flowers bloom in the park, attracting a large number of tourists. Admission to the park is free and no reservation is required.
- Xi’an City Wall (西安城墙) http://www.chinaxiancitywall.com/index.php?m=pc: The Xi’an Ancient City Wall is one of the largest and best-preserved ancient city walls in China, surrounding the urban area of Xi’an and with a total length of about 13.7 kilometers. You can ride or stroll around the city walls and feel the history of the ancient city.
- Bell Tower and Drum Tower: (钟楼与鼓楼)Located in the center of Xi’an, the Bell Tower and Drum Tower were important buildings in the Ming and Qing dynasties, symbolizing the history and culture of the ancient city. At night, the bell and drum towers are even more magnificent under the illumination.
- Shuyuanmen Pedestrian Street: (书院门步行街) Known for selling paintings, calligraphy, antiques and handicrafts, this quaint street is a great place to experience Xi’an’s traditional culture. The Ming and Qing architectural style shops on both sides of the pedestrian street show the rich cultural heritage.
- Shaanxi History Museum(陕西历史博物馆) https://www.sxhm.com/: As one of the famous history museums in China, the museum has a large collection of precious cultural relics, showing the rich historical and cultural heritage of Shaanxi. It is recommended to make an appointment in advance.
Xi’an Attractions/Food The attractions are all located near Xi’an Jiaotong University and are suitable for arranging a tour itinerary.
 | Jiaotong University Westward Migration Museum Xi’an Jiaotong University (Xingqing Campus) Show the process of Xi’an Jiaotong University moving from Shanghai to Xi’anCovers topics such as school history, education, engineering technology, etc., with a strong academic atmosphere |
 | Cherry Blossom Avenue (East Cherry Blossom Avenue, West Cherry Blossom Avenue) On the campus of Xi’an Jiaotong University, cherry blossoms bloom every spring, forming a spectacular sea of flowers. It is one of the most popular flower-viewing spots on campus. |
 | Forest of Steles Museum A collection of numerous inscriptions and epitaphs from past dynasties, a paradise for calligraphy loversGain a deeper understanding of the development of Chinese calligraphy, literature and history |
 | Xi’an Ancient City Wall A Ming Dynasty relic, well preserved, you can walk or ride a bicycle around the cityClimb the city in the evening to enjoy the sunset. The night view and light show are very spectacular. |
 | Small Wild Goose Pagoda and Xi’an Museum The Small Wild Goose Pagoda is a Tang Dynasty Buddhist pagoda, and the Xi’an Museum houses a large number of cultural relics from the Xi’an area.The scenic area also has a quiet garden design, integrating history and nature |
 | Xi’an Bell Tower The Beilin District of Xi’an is located at the geometric center of the ancient city of Xi’an. It is one of the most representative buildings in Xi’an and a core landmark of transportation and culture.The ancient “morning bell and evening drum” system originated from here, which echoes the drum tower in the west and is part of the ancient city time management system |
 | Qin Shi Huang Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum The Terracotta Warriors and Horses of Qin Shi Huang are the mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang, the emperor of the Qin Dynasty in China. It is also the first imperial mausoleum in China that is large in scale, elaborate in layout and well-preserved. |
 | 「Ancient City Food」Xi’an is one of China’s food capitals Roujiamo is known as the “hamburger” of China, but compared to the hamburger, it is healthier and more Chinese in flavor. The crust is crispy and browned, the meat is flavorful and fresh, very delicious, refreshing and not greasy. |
 | Liangpi is one of the special snacks in Xi’an. It is very simple to make. Just put the seasonings and vegetables in the cold skin and mix them. It tastes very fragrant. |
 | Mutton soup with steamed bun is undoubtedly one of the most representative delicacies in Xi’an. The meat is tender and tasty, and the steamed bun tastes fresh and fragrant. You will have an endless aftertaste after eating it. |
 | Saozi noodles are one of the most famous noodles in the whole Shaanxi Province, and are also a delicacy with a more Han flavor. Its noodles are chewy and smooth, and taste fresh, spicy and sour. |