西 安
大雁塔(Big Goose Pagoda)
Xi'an is one of China's most famous and colorful cities with a history stretching more than 5000 years. Over a period of 2000 years, Xi'an, formerly Chang' an, has seen the rise and fall of numerous Chinese dynasties, and the monuments and archaeological sites in the city and the surrounding plain are a reminder that once upon a time Xi'an stood at the very center of the Chinese world.
Today Xi'an is one of China's major
attractions. For many people, the major draw is the army of the Terracotta
Warriors, but there are countless other sights scattered in and around
兵馬俑(The
Army of Terracotta Warriors).
the city. There is also an
Islamic element to the city, found in tucked-away mosques and busy
marketplaces, that lends the city a touch of the exotic rarely found in Chinese
cities further east.
It also adds a bit of culinary flair to eateries in and around Xi'an which
are famous for such dishes as 火鍋(see below).
Other favorites include: 新疆大槃機 and
羊肉泡饃.
Xi'an is also a wonderful city in which to explore glorious examples of ancient Chinese architecture. The city core is still surrounded by a 12m high wall constructed during the reign of the first emperor of the Ming Dynasty. In addition to the Drum Tower, which marks the entrance to the Muslim quarter of Xi'an, there is also the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and The Little Wild Goose Pagoda. Perhaps most famous is the Bell Tower, located in the city's center, it was initially constructed in the late 14th century.
鈡樓(The Bell Tower) 小雁塔(Little Goose Pagoda)
I strongly recommend that those who have the opportunity to visit this historic city should do so. Waiting is a memorable experience in one of the World's great cities. DON'T PASS IT UP!
Below is my e-mail address and links to some other sites concerning information about Xi'an.
http://www.travelchinaguide.com