2008年3月18日星期二

Xian China

The city of Xian is one of the world’s four most renown, capital cities of the ancient world. It shares this honor with such cities as Athens, Rome and Cairo. Xian is over 3000 years old and has been the capital city of thirteen different dynasties. Today, Xian is the capital of the province of Shaanxi.

Xian is a living, breathing museum of China’s past. The Mausoleum of the Emperor Qun Shi Huang, as well as the Terra Cotta Warriors and Horses Museums, are fantastic places to take an up close look at some amazing, historical relics. One can also look at the remains of castles, and even ancient villages. The remains of the Banpo Village, from the Neolithic Age, dating back to 8000 B.C. can be seen by those who are lucky enough to visit the city. Xian can also boast that within its’ limits, can be found the bones of the fingers of Sakyamuni, the man who is believed to have founded Buddhism, in the Famen Temple.

Because Xian is surrounded by hills and mountains, there are some truly breathtaking views throughout the city. Xian is nestled between the Qinling Mountains and the Weihe river. One of the country’s most famous mountains, Mt. Huashan, can be accessed from Xian. The area enjoys mostly pleasant weather and residents get to experience each season. The city does however, experience cold winters.

Xian is believed to be the most valuable city in the northwestern part of China. Because of this, many people visit the city each year, in fact, millions of individuals do just that. As tourism continues to be a big part of the local economy, the city works hard at accommodating them. There are many star rated hotels as well as inexpensive hostels for those who prefer cheaper options.

Xian is considered the most significant city in northwestern China. And like most big and important cities in the world, there are plenty of places to shop. The most well known places to shop in Xian are at the Century Ginwa and the Kai Yuan Shopping malls. The city also has great places to hang out after night fall. Dinner shows at the Tang Dynasty, walks along the Big Wild Goose Pagoda Square, karoke bars and discos are enjoyable outings for local residents and tourists. Xian is also well known for its’ good eating. The Muslim Snack Street receives great reviews as does Guangdong cuisine and Shaanxi snacks.

Xian is considered the most important city in northeast China. It has a strong history, but today, is very modern and continuously developing. It is a very gracious and charming city and very open and accommodating to visitors. Good food, great history and an eye towards continued development makes the future seem rather bright for this very significant Chinese city.