Xi'an

This is the one attraction that has captured the imagination of visitors both from inside and outside the country. China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, whose greater-than-life ambition also gave birth to the creation of the Great Wall, amassed battalions of life-sized warriors fashioned out of clay, complete with chariots and horses. Each soldier has a different and unique facial expression. Even after more than 2,200 years (it was finished in 210 BC), the warriors remain in perfect condition, watching over their long deceased ruler.

Xiaoyan Pagoda (Small Wild Goose) is lower than the Dayan (Giant Wild Goose) Pagoda. However, it contains more floors. Like its larger counterpart, it was built around 700 AD, and its primary purpose was to hold the holy Buddhist scriptures carried to China. In the neighbourhood of the pagoda, the Shaanxi Museum is home to many treasures in the province.

As one of the most famous mountains in China, Hua Mountain is considered sacred to the Taoist religion. It is a strenuous climb, but there is a ropeway that gives visitors headed to the mountain as an easier option. The breathtaking views at the top with clouds floating on the mountains worth your effort. Although 120 kilometres away from the city of Xi'an, it is absolutely worth visiting.

The well-preserved city wall, which is almost 12 km long, has stood for more than 600 years and are still a great way to navigate around the city. You can cycle or take a walk around the city wall built in traditional style. Locals like to say that they can still hear the sounds of wars and soldiers' cries lingering around, reminding them of those past glories.

Known as the Temple of the Green Dragon, Japanese monks came to study Buddhism in the 9th century and left a legacy here. The annual cherry blossom festival is held here in March and April, basking the surroundings in a mesmerising sea of soft pink flowers.

The Great Mosque is one of the largest, oldest and best-preserved Islamic mosques in China. A trip is worth for its centuries-old history, and also for its particular design of mixed architecture with traditional Muslim and Chinese styles.

If you enjoy exploring museums, this is the right place to fulfil knowledge about the ancient Chinese empire which had situated in this region. Take a trip through the region's and city's ancient history at this huge museum, which demonstrates four original terracotta soldiers.

Xi'an's largest Taoist temple dates back to the Song dynasty and is still an active place of worship. Supposedly built on the site of an ancient wine shop, it was constructed to protect against subterranean divine thunder. Scenes from Taoist mythology are painted around the courtyard. Empress Cixi, the mother of the last emperor, stayed here in 1901 after fleeing Beijing during the Boxer Rebellion.

China's Muslim population has been firmly established in Xi'an for centuries, and the Muslim Quarter of the city extends north from the Drum Tower over small alleys and backstreets, which feature halal butcher shops, small mosques, food markets and shops selling typical wares.

This historic house belonged to an affluent family back in the day so you can see how they lived and how they used each section of the house. You can also enjoy the varied artistic experience here including shadow play, paper cutting and painting. During shadow play talks, you can learn more about traditional Chinese tale.