1. 大雁塔 Big Wild Goose Pagoda：The Big Wild Goose Pagoda is a renowned Buddhist pagoda located in southern Xi’an. Built in the Tang Dynasty, it was originally constructed to house Buddhist scriptures brought back from India by the famous monk Xuanzang. Standing at an imposing height, the pagoda showcases exquisite architecture and is a symbol of the profound Buddhist culture in ancient China. It has witnessed the prosperity of the Silk Road and is now a major tourist attraction, attracting visitors from all over the world to admire its grandeur and historical significance.
2. 小雁塔 Small Wild Goose Pagoda：The Small Wild Goose Pagoda is another important Buddhist pagoda in Xi’an. It was built during the Tang Dynasty as well. This pagoda features a more delicate and elegant design compared to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. Despite experiencing numerous earthquakes throughout history, it has miraculously remained standing, demonstrating the superb architectural techniques of ancient Chinese craftsmen. The Small Wild Goose Pagoda, along with its surrounding complex, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, representing the high – level achievements of ancient Chinese architecture and Buddhist culture.
3. 秦始皇兵马俑博物馆 Museum of Emperor Qinshihuang’s Tomb Figures of Soldiers and Horses：The Museum of Emperor Qinshihuang’s Tomb Figures of Soldiers and Horses is a world – famous archaeological museum. Discovered in the 1970s, it houses a vast army of life – sized terracotta warriors, horses, and chariots that were buried with Emperor Qin Shi Huang to accompany him in the afterlife. These meticulously crafted terracotta figures vary in facial expressions, hairstyles, and clothing, providing valuable insights into the military, art, and culture of the Qin Dynasty. It is a remarkable archaeological discovery that has astonished the world and is a must – visit destination for those interested in ancient Chinese history.
4. 秦始皇陵 Mausoleum of Emperor Qin Shi Huang：The Mausoleum of Emperor Qin Shi Huang is the burial site of the first emperor of China. It is a colossal and magnificent project that took decades to build. The mausoleum is surrounded by a large – scale underground palace complex filled with numerous treasures and cultural relics. Although the main part of the mausoleum has not been fully excavated to better protect the cultural heritage, the discovery of the terracotta army nearby has already revealed the grandeur and might of the Qin Dynasty. It is a symbol of the great power and advanced civilization of ancient China.
5. 陕西历史博物馆 Shaanxi History Museum：The Shaanxi History Museum is a large – scale museum that houses a vast collection of historical artifacts. It showcases the long – standing history and rich culture of Shaanxi province, which was the center of several ancient dynasties in China. The museum’s collections range from pre – historical relics to treasures from different dynasties, including bronzes, ceramics, paintings, and calligraphy. These exhibits vividly depict the development of Chinese history, art, and culture, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of China’s ancient civilization.
6. 西安城墙 Xi’an Ancient City Wall：The Xi’an Ancient City Wall is one of the largest and best – preserved ancient city walls in China. Built during the Ming Dynasty, it surrounds the city center of Xi’an. The wall is massive, with a height of about 12 meters, a width of 12 – 14 meters at the top, and a circumference of approximately 13.7 kilometers. Along the wall, there are four main gates, as well as watchtowers and other defensive structures. It not only serves as a historical relic but also as a popular place for locals and tourists to stroll, exercise, and experience the ancient city’s charm.
7. 钟楼 Bell Tower：The Bell Tower is a landmark building in the center of Xi’an. Standing majestically at the intersection of the four main streets, it was built in the Ming Dynasty. The tower is renowned for its unique architecture, with a three – story wooden structure supported by a square base. Inside the tower, there was originally a large bell that was used to tell time in ancient times. Today, the Bell Tower is a symbol of the city’s history and culture, attracting tourists with its magnificent appearance and historical significance.
8. 鼓楼 Drum Tower：Adjacent to the Bell Tower, the Drum Tower is another important historical building in Xi’an. It was also constructed in the Ming Dynasty. The tower is named after the large drums it once housed, which were used to mark the time and for various ceremonies. The Drum Tower’s architecture is grand and imposing, with a two – story wooden structure on a brick base. The building is richly decorated with elaborate carvings and paintings, representing the high – level craftsmanship of ancient Chinese architecture.
9. 华清池 Huaqing Hot Spring：Huaqing Hot Spring is a famous historical and cultural scenic spot. It has a long history and was a favorite imperial resort in ancient times. The hot spring water here is rich in minerals and has therapeutic effects. The area is also known for its beautiful natural scenery and historical buildings. It was the location of many historical events, such as the love story between Emperor Xuanzong of the Tang Dynasty and Yang Guifei. The palaces, pavilions, and gardens in Huaqing Hot Spring combine the beauty of nature and the essence of ancient Chinese architecture.
10. 大明宫国家遗址公园 Daming Palace National Heritage Park：The Daming Palace National Heritage Park is built on the ruins of the Daming Palace, the imperial palace of the Tang Dynasty. This was the political center of the Tang Dynasty, where emperors held grand ceremonies and handled state affairs. The park preserves and showcases the scale and layout of the once – magnificent palace complex through archaeological ruins, restored buildings, and exhibitions. It offers visitors a glimpse into the glorious era of the Tang Dynasty, with its advanced culture, powerful politics, and prosperous economy.
11. 碑林博物馆 Xi’an Beilin Museum：The Xi’an Beilin Museum is a museum famous for its collection of steles and stone inscriptions. It houses a large number of steles from different dynasties, which are engraved with important historical documents, calligraphy works, and religious texts. These steles not only have high historical value but also are excellent examples of Chinese calligraphy art. The museum is a treasure trove for studying Chinese history, culture, and calligraphy development, attracting scholars, calligraphy enthusiasts, and tourists from all over the world.
12. 大唐芙蓉园 Tang Paradise：Tang Paradise is a large – scale cultural theme park that recreates the grandeur and prosperity of the Tang Dynasty. It features a variety of Tang – style buildings, such as palaces, pavilions, and gardens. The park also presents various cultural performances, including traditional music, dance, and acrobatics, which showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Tang Dynasty. With its beautiful scenery and immersive cultural experience, it has become a popular destination for tourists to experience the charm of ancient Chinese culture.
13. 半坡遗址博物馆 Banpo Museum：The Banpo Museum is built on the site of the Banpo Neolithic village. It was a settlement of the Yangshao culture about 6,000 – 7,000 years ago. The museum preserves the remains of houses, storage pits, tombs, and various artifacts, such as pottery, stone tools, and bone artifacts. These exhibits provide valuable information about the lifestyle, production techniques, and social structure of the primitive people in ancient China, helping people understand the early development of Chinese civilization.
14. 阿房宫遗址 E Pang Palace Ruins：The E Pang Palace Ruins are the remains of the grand E Pang Palace, which was planned to be built by Emperor Qin Shi Huang. Although it was not fully completed, the scale and design of the palace were intended to be magnificent. The ruins cover a large area and are an important archaeological site. They reflect the ambitious building projects and the power of the Qin Dynasty, and also arouse people’s imagination about the grandeur of this uncompleted imperial palace.
15. 兴庆宫公园 Xingqing Palace Park：Xingqing Palace Park is a park built on the site of the Xingqing Palace, an imperial palace of the Tang Dynasty. It was an important place for emperors and nobles to live and hold activities during the Tang Dynasty. The park retains some of the original palace – style architecture, and is surrounded by beautiful gardens, lakes, and trees. It provides a peaceful and scenic place for people to relax and also allows them to experience the historical atmosphere of the Tang Dynasty.
16. 青龙寺 Qinglong Temple：Qinglong Temple is a famous Buddhist temple with a long history. It was an important center of Esoteric Buddhism in the Tang Dynasty. Many Japanese monks came here to study Buddhism, and it played a significant role in the spread of Buddhism to Japan. The temple is surrounded by beautiful cherry blossoms, which bloom in spring, creating a charming and peaceful scene. The architecture and cultural relics in the temple reflect the profound Buddhist culture and historical exchanges between China and Japan.
17. 书院门 Shu Yuan Men (The Arts Street)：Shu Yuan Men, also known as The Arts Street, is a street in Xi’an that is famous for its cultural and artistic atmosphere. Lined with numerous shops selling traditional Chinese calligraphy, paintings, antiques, and handicrafts, it is a gathering place for artists, collectors, and those interested in traditional Chinese culture. The street is also home to some historical buildings, such as the Confucian Temple, adding to its historical and cultural charm.
18. 大兴善寺 Daxingshan Temple：Daxingshan Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple in Xi’an. It was built in the Sui Dynasty and was one of the important Buddhist temples in the capital city at that time. The temple has a solemn and elegant architecture, and it has been a place for Buddhist study, meditation, and religious activities throughout history. It is an important site for the study of Chinese Buddhist history and culture, and its existence reflects the prosperity of Buddhism in ancient China.
19. 曲江遗址公园 Qujiang Ruins Park：The Qujiang Ruins Park is built on the site of the historical Qujiang area, which was a popular imperial garden and scenic spot in ancient times. The park combines modern landscape design with historical elements, restoring some of the historical buildings and water systems. It provides a place for people to relax, enjoy the scenery, and learn about the history and culture of the Qujiang area in different dynasties.
20. 西安博物院 Xi’an Museum：The Xi’an Museum is a comprehensive museum that integrates historical relics display, cultural heritage protection, and scientific research. It houses a large number of cultural relics unearthed in the Xi’an area, covering different historical periods. The museum’s architecture combines traditional and modern styles, and through various exhibition methods, it showcases the long – standing history and unique culture of Xi’an, helping visitors understand the development of this ancient city.
21. 回民街 Muslim Quarter：The Muslim Quarter is a vibrant and bustling area in Xi’an. It is home to a large number of Muslim residents and is known for its unique Islamic culture, delicious halal food, and traditional handicrafts. The narrow streets are lined with restaurants, snack stalls, and shops selling traditional Islamic items, such as carpets, hats, and copperware. It is a place where visitors can experience the unique ethnic culture and enjoy a variety of local delicacies.
22. 大清真寺 The Great Mosque：The Great Mosque in Xi’an is a magnificent Islamic building. It was built in the Tang Dynasty and has been renovated and expanded over the centuries. The mosque combines Chinese traditional architectural style with Islamic elements, with its pavilions, halls, and gardens. Inside the mosque, there are beautiful Islamic carvings, calligraphy, and religious facilities. It is not only a place for religious activities but also a cultural heritage that reflects the long – standing history of Islamic culture in Xi’an.
23. 高家大院 Gao’s Courtyard：Gao’s Courtyard is a well – preserved traditional Chinese courtyard. It represents the typical residential architecture of the Ming and Qing dynasties in Xi’an. The courtyard features elaborate wood carvings, brick carvings, and stone carvings, which showcase the superb craftsmanship of that time. Inside the courtyard, there are also traditional Chinese furniture and cultural relics, providing visitors with a glimpse into the life of the wealthy families in ancient times.
24. 汉阳陵博物馆 Hanyang Tomb Museum：The Hanyang Tomb Museum is centered around the mausoleum of Emperor Jing of the Han Dynasty and his empress. The museum showcases a large number of cultural relics unearthed from the mausoleum, including terracotta figurines, pottery, and bronze wares. These relics are smaller in size but more delicate in craftsmanship compared to the Qin terracotta warriors. The museum also has a unique underground museum where visitors can observe the archaeological site up – close, experiencing the historical and cultural value of the Han Dynasty.
25. 法门寺 Famen Temple：Famen Temple is a famous Buddhist temple with great religious significance. It is renowned for housing a finger bone relic of Sakyamuni Buddha, which is considered a precious Buddhist treasure. The temple complex has a magnificent architecture, with a large – scale pagoda and various halls. The cultural relics unearthed from the temple, such as precious Buddhist scriptures, silk fabrics, and exquisite porcelain, are of high historical, artistic, and religious value. It is a major destination for Buddhist pilgrims and cultural tourists.
26. 乾陵 Qianling Mausoleum：The Qianling Mausoleum is the joint tomb of Emperor Gaozong of the Tang Dynasty and Empress Wu Zetian. It is located on Liangshan Mountain and is known for its grand scale and unique geographical location. The mausoleum is surrounded by a series of stone sculptures, including stone horses, stone lions, and statues of foreign envoys, which are magnificent and solemn. The mausoleum has not been excavated yet, adding an air of mystery to this historical site.
27. 终南山 Mt. Zhongnan：Mt. Zhongnan is a famous mountain range near Xi’an. It has a profound cultural connotation in Chinese history and religion. It has been a place where many hermits, Taoists, and Buddhists have practiced and meditated for thousands of years. The mountain is known for its beautiful natural scenery, with lush forests, clear streams, and numerous temples and hermitages. It is a place that combines natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
28. 骊山 Mt. Li：Mt. Li is a scenic mountain with rich historical stories. It is located to the east of Xi’an. The mountain is known for its beautiful scenery, especially in the evening when the afterglow shines on it, creating a spectacular view. It was also the location of many historical events, such as the 烽火戏诸侯 in ancient times and the Huaqing Hot Spring incidents. There are many historical relics and scenic spots on the mountain, attracting a large number of tourists.
29. 华山 Mt. Huashan：Mt. Huashan is one of the Five Great Mountains in China and is famous for its steep and perilous terrain. It is located in Huayin City, near Xi’an. The mountain has five main peaks, each with its own unique scenery. The Plank Road in the Air and other attractions on the mountain offer a thrilling experience for adventurous tourists. Mt. Huashan also has a long – standing cultural heritage, with many temples and historical legends.
30. 壶口瀑布 Hukou Waterfall：The Hukou Waterfall is located on the Yellow River, near Xi’an. It is one of the most famous waterfalls in China. The Yellow River water rushes down here, forming a spectacular waterfall with a thunderous sound. The force of the water carves out a unique landscape, with the water spraying high into the air and creating a magnificent mist. It is a natural wonder that showcases the power and beauty of nature.
31. 罔极寺 Wangji Temple：Wangji Temple is a Buddhist temple in Xi’an. It was built in the Tang Dynasty and has a long – standing history. The temple is known for its simple and elegant architecture. It has been a place for Buddhist practice and religious activities for centuries. The quiet and peaceful environment of the temple allows people to feel the solemnity of Buddhism and experience the tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
32. 广仁寺 Guangren Temple：Guangren Temple is the only Tibetan – style Buddhist temple in Shaanxi Province. It was built in the Qing Dynasty to promote cultural exchanges and religious harmony among different ethnic groups. The temple has a unique Tibetan – style architecture, with colorful murals and exquisite Buddhist statues. It is an important place for the study of Tibetan – Han cultural exchanges and the spread of Tibetan Buddhism in the area.
33. 唐华清宫梨园遗址 Liyuan Ruins of Tang Huaqing Palace：The Liyuan Ruins of Tang Huaqing Palace are the remains of the place where the imperial music and dance troupe was located during the Tang Dynasty. It was the center of the Tang Dynasty’s performing arts. The ruins are of great significance for studying the development of ancient Chinese music, dance, and drama. They reflect the prosperous cultural and artistic life of the imperial court in the Tang Dynasty.
34. 八仙庵 Baxian’an Taoist Temple：Baxian’an Taoist Temple is a well – known Taoist temple in Xi’an. It is dedicated to the Eight Immortals in Chinese mythology. The temple has a grand and solemn architecture, with various halls and pavilions. It is a place for Taoist religious activities and also attracts many tourists who are interested in Taoist culture to learn about the beliefs, customs, and architecture of Taoism.
35. 白鹿原影视城 Bailuyuan Film and Television City：The Bailuyuan Film and Television City is built based on the famous novel “Bailu Plain”. It recreates the rural scenery and cultural atmosphere of the Bailu Plain in the past. The city features traditional northern Shaanxi – style buildings, such as cave – dwellings, and offers various cultural performances and activities. It has become a popular tourist destination, allowing visitors to experience the local culture and the charm of the story in the novel.
36. 西安事变纪念馆 Xi’an Incident Memorial Hall：The Xi’an Incident Memorial Hall is built to commemorate the Xi’an Incident, which was a significant event that changed the course of modern Chinese history. The museum uses a variety of exhibition methods, including historical photos, documents, and real – life – sized scenes, to vividly display the background, process, and historical significance of the Xi’an Incident. It is an important place for people to learn about modern Chinese history and the contributions of patriotic generals.