Xi’an (西安), also historically known as Chang’an (長安), served as the capital for numerous dynasties throughout Chinese history. From the Terracotta Army and the mausoleum of Emperor Qin Shi Huang—both UNESCO World Heritage Sites—to unique local delicacies like thick Biangbiang noodles and Yangrou Paomo (羊肉泡饃, lamb soup with crumbled flatbread), Xi’an is a city of grand scale and endless charm. Discover why it has been called the “Rome of the East.”
Introduction & Features of Xi’an (西安)
Often referred to by its ancient name, Chang’an (長安), Xi’an was the eastern gateway of the Silk Road, connecting East Asia to Central Asia and beyond.
Geographical Features
- Location
Xi’an is the capital of Shaanxi Province (陝西省) in inland China, situated in the heart of the Guanzhong (關中) Plain. The Wei River (渭水), a tributary of the Yellow River, flows north of the city, while the Qinling Mountains (秦嶺山脈) stretch across the south. This basin geography made the area naturally defensible and endowed it with fertile land and plentiful resources, supporting a large population over the centuries. - Advantages of a Basin Terrain
- Surrounded by mountains on all sides, ideal for establishing a secure capital in ancient times
- Reliable water supply from the Wei River, favorable for cultivating crops like rice and wheat
Cultural Features
As a key starting point of the Silk Road linking China and Western regions, Xi’an has long been a crossroads of various ethnicities and cultures. Especially during the Han and Tang Dynasties, Xi’an became an international metropolis, drawing merchants from Central Asia, the Middle East, and even Europe. Today, the presence of the Hui ethnic group (Chinese Muslims) continues to shape the city’s culinary landscape, notably in the Muslim Quarter (回民街) where visitors can enjoy exotic flavors and an authentic atmosphere.
- Gateway to the Silk Road: A bridge connecting China to the West
- Multicultural Heritage: Home to Hui, Tibetan, and other minority communities, resulting in a rich tapestry of cuisine and customs
History of Xi’an (西安)
With over 1,000 years of history as a capital city from the Spring and Autumn period to the Ming and Qing Dynasties, Xi’an offers deep historical insight. Understanding this background enriches any visit to the area’s heritage sites.
From Ancient Times to the Spring and Autumn Period (~3rd Century BC)
The Xi’an region, located in the middle reaches of the Yellow River, has been inhabited since Neolithic times due to its fertile basin environment. As agriculture thrived, various states fought to control this strategic area.
In the late Warring States period, the state of Qin emerged strong in the Guanzhong Plain. After Qin Shi Huang unified China in 221 BC, he established the capital at Xianyang (咸陽), near the modern-day Xi’an/Chang’an area. From then on, Xi’an stood at the center stage of Chinese history.
Note: Xianyang (咸陽) and today’s Xi’an (西安) are about 20 km apart, separated by the Wei River.
Qin (秦), Han (漢), Wei (魏), and Jin (晉) Dynasties (3rd Century BC – 5th Century AD)
- Qin Shi Huang’s Reign
Emperor Qin Shi Huang centralized power, built and expanded the Great Wall, standardized scripts and currency, and improved the road network. His monumental mausoleum (Qin Shi Huang Mausoleum) and the Terracotta Army (兵馬俑) remain iconic landmarks of Xi’an. - Han Dynasty
Liu Bang (劉邦), the founder of the Han Dynasty, established Chang’an (長安) as his capital, constructing vast palaces and city infrastructure. Under Emperor Wu (漢武帝), the empire expanded into Central Asia, opening the Silk Road. Chang’an thrived as a commercial hub linking East Asia with the West, exporting silk, ceramics, and tea. - Wei–Jin Period
Though the late Han period saw turmoil and frequent warfare, Xi’an continued to serve as a key stronghold for governance of the northwest region.
Sui (隋), Tang (唐), Song (宋), and Yuan (元) Dynasties (6th – 14th Century)
- Sui Dynasty
Emperor Wen of Sui (隋文帝) built Daxing City (大興城), once again elevating Xi’an to imperial capital status. Although the Sui Dynasty was short-lived, it set the stage for the next golden era. - Tang Dynasty
The Tang renamed Daxing City to Chang’an (長安) and expanded it extensively. Chang’an became an international mega-city on par with Rome or Constantinople, attracting students, merchants, and envoys from all over the world. The Giant Wild Goose Pagoda (大雁塔), tied to the Buddhist monk Xuanzang (玄奘), stands as a testament to this vibrant era and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. - Song and Yuan
Internal rebellions and invasions by nomadic tribes weakened the Tang toward its end. Subsequent Song (宋) and Yuan (元) dynasties moved the capital to Kaifeng (開封), Hangzhou (杭州), or further east. Still, Xi’an remained a crucial military and administrative center for the northwestern region.
Ming (明) and Qing (淸) Dynasties (14th – Early 20th Century)
The Xi’an City Wall (西安城牆), built during the Ming Dynasty, is one of the best-preserved city walls in China today. Throughout the late Qing period, Xi’an continued to thrive as a military stronghold and commercial gateway to the western regions, facilitating ongoing cultural exchange.
Modern Era (20th Century – Present)
- Republic of China to the People’s Republic
In the early 20th century, Xi’an remained central to development in the northwest under the Republic of China. After the founding of the People’s Republic of China (1949), Xi’an became the capital of Shaanxi Province, advancing in industries like petroleum, machinery, and aerospace. - A Rising Tourist Destination
The discovery of the Terracotta Army in 1974 brought Xi’an global fame. Today, millions of international visitors come each year, drawn to its blend of ancient relics and modern infrastructure.
Xi’an Travel Guide
Xi’an seamlessly weaves together past and present, East and West. Stroll atop its ancient city wall in the morning, then relax in a cutting-edge shopping mall café by afternoon. Below are key travel tips for planning your trip.
Must-See Attractions
Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang & The Terracotta Army (兵馬俑)
Considered one of the world’s eight great wonders, the Mausoleum of Emperor Qin Shi Huang sits about 40 km from downtown Xi’an. The Terracotta Warriors Museum showcases over 6,000 life-sized clay soldiers and horses.
- Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds; allocate at least half a day to explore at a comfortable pace.
Xi’an City Wall (西安城牆)
Constructed during the Ming Dynasty, this extensive city wall—around 13.7 km (8.5 miles) in circumference—encircles the old city. Walking or cycling along the top offers panoramic views of Xi’an.
- Gates: The city wall has multiple gates, with the South Gate (Yongningmen, 永寧門) being the most elaborate.
- Recommendation: Cycle by day or enjoy a magical night view when the wall is illuminated.
Giant Wild Goose Pagoda (大雁塔) & Small Wild Goose Pagoda (小雁塔)
- Giant Wild Goose Pagoda: Built during the Tang Dynasty, associated with the Buddhist monk Xuanzang (玄奘), who translated and stored sutras brought from India. A large musical fountain show takes place in the surrounding plaza each evening.
- Small Wild Goose Pagoda: Quieter and smaller, offering a more tranquil look at Tang-era architecture, perfect for a leisurely stroll to soak in the historical ambiance.
Han Yangling (漢陽陵)
The joint mausoleum of Emperor Jing (景帝) of Han and his empress, Han Yangling contains smaller terracotta figures. Though more modest than the Terracotta Army, it captivates visitors with its delicate craftsmanship—a favorite among history buffs.
BEST Cultural & Culinary Highlights in Xi’an
The Guanzhong region (the area around Xi’an) is renowned for its hearty wheat-based dishes and lamb specialties. Due to longstanding exchange with Western regions, many dishes have a halal (Hui) influence.
Biangbiang Noodles (臊子面 or 油潑面)
Xi’an is famous for extra-wide hand-pulled noodles—thick, chewy, and served with spicy, oily sauces or rich broths. Popular variations include Youpo Mian (油潑面), topped with a sizzling chili oil dressing, and Saozi Mian (臊子面), usually prepared with meat and vegetable toppings in a flavorful soup.
Liangpi (涼皮) & Paomo (泡饃)
- Liangpi (涼皮): Cold skin noodles made from wheat or rice flour, mixed with chili oil, sliced cucumbers, cilantro, and other garnishes. Perfect for hot summer days.
- Paomo (泡饃): Usually known as Yangrou Paomo (羊肉泡饃), this dish features pieces of wheat flatbread crumbled into a rich lamb broth. The combination of savory meat stock and bread creates a hearty, comforting meal.
Travel Planning Recommendations
Transportation
- Air: Xi’an Xianyang International Airport (XIY) offers frequent domestic flights (to Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, etc.) and international connections (Incheon, Tokyo, Bangkok, etc.). Taxis from the airport to downtown take about 40–50 minutes; airport buses also run regularly.
- Rail & High-Speed Train: Xi’an North Railway Station is one of China’s largest high-speed train hubs. The Xi’an–Beijing route takes about 5–6 hours by high-speed rail. It’s also well connected to Shanghai, Chengdu, and other major cities.
- City Transport: The expanding metro system (Lines 1–9, more under construction) and numerous bus routes, taxis, and ride-hailing services provide easy access to main attractions. Shuttle services from central bus stations (e.g., near Xi’an Railway Station) run to the Terracotta Army and Qin Shi Huang Mausoleum sites.
Travel Tips
- Best Seasons
- Spring (Apr–May): Dry with occasional dust storms, but generally mild and comfortable.
- Autumn (Sep–Oct): Clear skies, cool temperatures—widely considered the best time to visit.
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Can be cold, sometimes below freezing, but fewer tourists mean a quieter experience.
- Summer (Jun–Aug): Hot and humid with possible rain; plan more indoor activities to avoid midday heat.
- Security Checks
As in many major Chinese cities, security checks at train stations, airports, and tourist entrances are strict. Allow extra time for screening. - Language Barrier
English may not be widely spoken beyond tourist areas. Having destination names written in Chinese characters or learning basic Chinese phrases can be very helpful.
Suggested Itinerary
- Day 1: Explore Xi’an’s City Wall → Evening stroll around the Drum Tower, Bell Tower, and Muslim Quarter (night market)
- Day 2: Day trip to see the Terracotta Army and Qin Shi Huang Mausoleum → Return to city for the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda fountain show
- Day 3: Visit Han Yangling or other imperial tombs → Evening food tour for dishes like Roujiamo and lamb skewers
- Day 4: Explore the Small Wild Goose Pagoda & Xi’an Museum → Final souvenir shopping before departure
Conclusion
Through countless cycles of rise and decline as a capital, Xi’an has showcased some of the most vibrant chapters in China’s history. The city’s streets are a living museum, filled with artifacts and heritage from a time when it was known as the “Rome of the East,” bustling with international exchange.
Today, Xi’an’s modern airport, high-speed rail lines, and large shopping complexes merge seamlessly with its ancient architecture. You can walk along the majestic city wall—soaking in the aura of a thousand years—and then enjoy contemporary dining, shopping, or nightlife in a cosmopolitan downtown.
Immerse yourself in a place where eras overlap: sense the footsteps of Emperor Qin Shi Huang and Emperor Taizong of the Tang Dynasty, then spend an evening savoring local snacks and watching the musical fountain at the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda. This unique blend of past and present will make your visit to Xi’an an unforgettable experience.