I originally planned to head to Xi’an during the New Year’s Day for a long – awaited trip. However, a spontaneous journey happened ahead of schedule. Before that, I had never set foot in Xi’an, let alone knew how to plan the itinerary and make a good travel guide. Independent travel was highly recommended online. So before my departure, I immersed myself in the online world, carefully studied a vast number of travel guides, and finally resolutely decided to embark on an independent travel journey alone. When I actually arrived in Xi’an, the city’s heritage and charm far exceeded my imagination.
Itinerary arrangement
On the first day
After arriving in Xi’an, in order to facilitate my subsequent travels, I first chose to check into a hotel close to the subway line. In the afternoon, I visited the Bell Tower and the Drum Tower, which are the landmark buildings of Xi’an. Climbing up the towers and looking out over the city, I felt extremely relaxed and happy.
Subsequently, I made my way to Huimin Street. Before even stepping in, the rich aroma in the air had already whetted my appetite. Entering Huimin Street, the dazzling array of food stalls was a sight to behold. I savored the steaming mutton paomo, with chewy pieces of bread and a rich, mellow broth; took a bite of the roujiamo, with a crispy outer crust and tender, flavorful meat inside; and then had a serving of smooth and chewy liangpi, which was sour, spicy, and instantly dispelled the fatigue of the journey.
As night fell and the lights came on, I ascended the Xi’an City Wall. Renting a bicycle, I leisurely rode on the broad city wall. The gentle evening breeze caressed my ears, and the brightly lit night view of the ancient city was before my eyes. The lights outlined the contour of the city wall, where history and modernity intertwined, and I fully immersed myself in the unique charm of this ancient city.
On the second day
I made an early reservation for the tickets to the Terracotta Army Museum of Emperor Qin Shi Huang in advance and also hired a professional docent specifically. As soon as I stepped into this museum, which is hailed as the “Eighth Wonder of the World”, I was immediately deeply shocked. Thousands of vivid terracotta warriors are neatly arranged, each with a distinct expression. It seems as if I can see the magnificent momentum and majesty of the ancient army back then, making people can’t help but marvel at the wisdom and superb craftsmanship of the ancients.
In the afternoon, I went to visit the Huaqing Palace. Here, I delved into the unique bathing culture of the royal family in the Tang Dynasty and listened to those historical stories that have been passed down through the ages. It was as if I had traveled through time and witnessed the prosperity and vicissitudes of the past.
As night fell, I watched the famous live-action performance of The Song of Everlasting Sorrow with great anticipation. On the stage, the lights were dazzling, and the actors vividly recreated the lingering and lamentable eternal love between Yang Guifei and Emperor Ming of the Tang Dynasty through their wonderful performances. I was so immersed in it that I couldn’t forget it for a long time.
On the third day
Filled with boundless yearning for the magnificent and precipitous scenery, I drove towards the renowned Huashan Mountain. Huashan, a famous mountain known for its steepness and danger throughout the world, stands there quietly like a solemn and mysterious giant, waiting for my visit.
After arriving at Huashan, I chose to take the cable car up the mountain. The cable car, rising slowly, was like a flexible ribbon that smoothly carried me to the mountain top surrounded by clouds and mist. Along the way, I watched the scenery outside intently. The strangely shaped peaks and rocks, some were like sharp swords thrusting into the sky, and some were like giant pythons coiling around. The uncanny workmanship of nature was really amazing. In this way, not only did I save my physical strength, but I also fully appreciated the unique charm of Huashan.
After coming down the mountain, I entered the theater and watched the large – scale live – action performance The Legend of the Camel Bell. As the plot advanced, it seemed that I had traveled through time and set foot on the ancient Silk Road. I followed the camel caravan westward, experiencing the hardships and adventures of the merchants on this legendary road, and feeling the collision and integration of different regional cultures.
As night fell and the lights came up, I arrived at the bustling Grand Tang Mall. Here, the lights were ablaze and the voices were clamorous. The musical fountain danced gracefully along with the passionate melody, and the colorful light show decorated the entire block like a dreamland. I strolled leisurely among them, fully experiencing the prosperity and brilliance of the prosperous Tang Dynasty, as if I had traveled back thousands of years to that golden age when all nations paid homage.
On the fourth day
In the early morning, the sunlight gently fell on this ancient yet vibrant city. With a strong interest in history and culture, I embarked on a new day’s journey. My first stop was the renowned Giant Wild Goose Pagoda. Standing at the base of the pagoda and looking up at its ancient and majestic body, my heart was filled with awe. I climbed up the winding stairs, and with each step, it seemed as if I was treading on the veins of history. Finally, reaching the top of the pagoda, I overlooked the magnificent scenery of downtown Xi’an. High – rise buildings and ancient streets were intertwined, and the modern prosperity and historical heritage were perfectly integrated, forming a unique and charming picture.
After leaving the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, I strolled to the adjacent Dacien Temple. As soon as I stepped through the temple gate, the hustle and bustle was instantly shut out, replaced by a peaceful and serene atmosphere. Ancient trees towered into the sky, incense smoke curled up, the palaces were solemn and majestic, and the scriptures softly chanted by the monks echoed in the air. Here, I was fully immersed in the profoundness of Buddhist culture, feeling the tranquility and solemnity that transcended the mundane world, and my soul seemed to have undergone a deep – level baptism.
In the afternoon, I eagerly headed to the Shaanxi History Museum. This palace, hailed as the first large – scale modern national – level museum in China, was like a vast historical treasure trove, quietly displaying countless precious cultural relics. Stepping into the museum was like entering a time corridor. From the stone tools and pottery of the ancient times, to the bronze wares of the Shang and Zhou Dynasties, and then to the exquisite calligraphy, paintings, porcelain, and jade wares of the Han and Tang Dynasties, each exhibit carried a heavy historical memory, vividly demonstrating the development context and glorious achievements of ancient Chinese history. I walked through each exhibition hall, greedily admiring these rare treasures, and constantly marveling at the wisdom and superb craftsmanship of the ancients.
As night fell quietly, I arranged my activities freely according to the return time. At this time, the bustling and lively Huimin Street attracted me again, so I went there once more. The familiar aroma wafted towards me. I shuttled in the bustling crowd, enjoying the authentic Xi’an snacks to my heart’s content, and experiencing the most vivid and down – to – earth side of this city. At the same time, I also carefully selected some local – characteristic souvenirs, hoping to keep the memories of this wonderful trip to Xi’an forever.
Cost Budget
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Precautions for Solo Travel
- Plan in advance: Before traveling to Xi’an, it is essential to plan your trip thoroughly in advance to avoid pitfalls and ensure a more enjoyable journey.
- Pay attention to safety: Especially in crowded areas, always keep an eye on your valuable items to prevent them from being stolen.
- Food hygiene: Choose clean and regular restaurants for dining, and avoid buying over – priced items in scenic areas.
- Weather changes: The weather in Xi’an can change rapidly, especially in autumn and winter when it can get very cold when it rains. Pay attention to keeping warm.
