china

Xi'an

Silk Road gateway where terracotta warriors guard an empire's secrets.

2-3 nights recommendedApril-May, September-OctoberPlan this chapter →

Xi'an was the starting point of the Silk Road and capital to 13 dynasties. The Terracotta Warriors remain one of the most staggering archaeological discoveries in human history: 8,000 life-sized soldiers buried for over two millennia. The city's Muslim Quarter pulses with the energy of Central Asian spice traders, and the ancient city walls invite a sunset cycle ride.

We also reach the plank walk of Mount Huashan and the old Bell Tower, arriving via Xi'an Xianyang (XIY).

Ideal for

History Buffs · Archaeology Enthusiasts · Food Lovers

Xi'an, Silk Road gateway where terracotta warriors guard an empire's secrets. — Plate IXi'an. *Younch Hotel Xi’an, Small Luxury Hotels of the World*

The Stay

Hotels steeped in dynastic history.

The Ritz-Carlton Xi'an

City wall views
Spa rituals
Imperial dining

Sofitel Legend People's Grand Hotel

Heritage building
Garden courtyards
Central location

Wyndham Grand Xi'an South

Big Wild Goose Pagoda views
Rooftop pool
Tang Paradise proximity

The Palate

01Muslim Quarter night food walk: lamb skewers, roujiamo, and pomegranate juice
02Biangbiang noodle making, the most complex character in Chinese
03Tang Dynasty dumpling banquet with traditional performance
04Persimmon cake tasting at a 100-year-old stall

The Stillness

01Terracotta Warriors before opening: private early access in the silence of 8,000 soldiers
02Cycling the 14km city wall at sunset, no cars, no noise, just history
03Big Wild Goose Pagoda garden at dawn
04Giant Goose Pagoda fountain show at night

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