Xi'an Ancient Meets Modern Along City Walls

If you're craving a city where ancient echoes dance with modern beats, Xi'an is your ultimate stop. Picture this: cycling atop 600-year-old Ming Dynasty walls while skyscrapers shimmer in the distance. That’s Xi’an for you — a seamless blend of old and new, where every alleyway tells a story.

Let’s start with the star of the show: the Xi’an City Wall. Built in the 14th century, it’s one of the oldest and best-preserved city fortifications in China. Stretching 13.7 kilometers, it encircles the historic heart like a protective embrace. Rent a bike (only ¥45 for 2 hours!) and glide along the ramparts. You’ll pass watchtowers lit like lanterns at dusk and get panoramic views of both ancient rooftops and neon-lit boulevards.

But wait — what about the Warriors? The Terminator of ancient armies — the Terracotta Army — lies just 30km east. Over 8,000 life-sized soldiers, each with unique facial features, were buried with Emperor Qin Shi Huang around 210 BCE. Pro tip: arrive early. Crowds peak by 10 a.m., but sunrise brings golden light and solitude.

Why Xi’an Works: Ancient + Modern Synergy

Xi’an isn’t stuck in the past. As a key hub on China’s Belt and Road Initiative, it’s booming with tech startups and high-speed rail links. Yet, you can sip craft beer in a bar tucked inside a 700-year-old mosque complex. That’s the magic.

Don’t miss Muslim Quarter — a food lover’s paradise. Try roujiamo (the ‘Chinese burger’) for ¥10, or dare the scorpion skewer (¥15). Locals swear by Yang Rou Paomo — crumbled flatbread soaked in spiced lamb soup. Messy? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely.

Data Snapshot: Xi’an at a Glance

For culture vultures, time your trip with the Xi’an International Lantern Festival (usually February–March). Thousands of LED-lit displays transform the city wall into a glowing dragon snaking through the night.

And yes, getting around is easy. Metro Line 2 cuts straight from the train station to Bell Tower. Taxis average ¥3 per km. But honestly? Walking or biking between sites keeps you close to the soul of the city.

In short, Xi’an isn’t just a stop on your China itinerary — it’s a revelation. Where else can you walk in the footsteps of emperors, then grab bubble tea beneath a drone light show? This city doesn’t just honor history — it lives it, breathes it, and serves it with a side of spicy cumin lamb.