Xi’an

Xi’an is one of China’s most historically significant cities, known as the starting point of the ancient Silk Road and once the capital of multiple dynasties, including the Qin, Han, and Tang.

At its core is a deep sense of layered history—Xi’an blends monumental ancient heritage with a modern urban landscape. The city is most famous for the Terracotta Army, a vast collection of life-sized clay soldiers buried with China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, which stands as one of the greatest archaeological discoveries in the world.

Within the city walls, which are among the best preserved in China, you’ll find a mix of historic sites like the Bell Tower, Drum Tower, and the bustling Muslim Quarter, where centuries-old trade influences are still visible in food and architecture. Xi’an’s cuisine is hearty and distinctive, featuring hand-pulled noodles, roujiamo (Chinese “hamburgers"), and rich, spice-forward flavors influenced by Silk Road exchange.

Today, Xi’an is also a growing technology and education hub, but its identity remains strongly tied to its imperial past and cultural depth.