Xi'an

Built initially by the Tang Emperor to honour his mother, the Da Ci'en Temple is the place where millions of historical rarities are housed. According to legend, all the Buddhist holy books were stored and translated after eminent monk Xuanzang returned from the journey to seek the scriptures. Inside the temple stands the Dayan Pagoda (also known as Giant Wild Goose Pagoda), constructed in the 7th century by China's first woman leader, Empress Wu Zetian.

This is the one attraction that has captured the imagination of visitors both from inside and outside the country. China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, whose greater-than-life ambition also gave birth to the creation of the Great Wall, amassed battalions of life-sized warriors fashioned out of clay, complete with chariots and horses. Each soldier has a different and unique facial expression. Even after more than 2,200 years (it was finished in 210 BC), the warriors remain in perfect condition, watching over their long deceased ruler.

Xiaoyan Pagoda (Small Wild Goose) is lower than the Dayan (Giant Wild Goose) Pagoda. However, it contains more floors. Like its larger counterpart, it was built around 700 AD, and its primary purpose was to hold the holy Buddhist scriptures carried to China. In the neighbourhood of the pagoda, the Shaanxi Museum is home to many treasures in the province.

As one of the most famous mountains in China, Hua Mountain is considered sacred to the Taoist religion. It is a strenuous climb, but there is a ropeway that gives visitors headed to the mountain as an easier option. The breathtaking views at the top with clouds floating on the mountains worth your effort. Although 120 kilometres away from the city of Xi'an, it is absolutely worth visiting.

Located adjacent to Mausoleum of The First Qin Emperor and Lishan National Forest Park, the water of this hot spring contains many minerals that are said to be good for the skin. It is said that the most famous imperial concubine of the Tang Dynasty, Yang Yu Huan, one of the four famous beauties of ancient China, chose this as her bathing ground.

Known as the Temple of the Green Dragon, Japanese monks came to study Buddhism in the 9th century and left a legacy here. The annual cherry blossom festival is held here in March and April, basking the surroundings in a mesmerising sea of soft pink flowers.

The Great Mosque is one of the largest, oldest and best-preserved Islamic mosques in China. A trip is worth for its centuries-old history, and also for its particular design of mixed architecture with traditional Muslim and Chinese styles.

If you enjoy exploring museums, this is the right place to fulfil knowledge about the ancient Chinese empire which had situated in this region. Take a trip through the region's and city's ancient history at this huge museum, which demonstrates four original terracotta soldiers.

China's Muslim population has been firmly established in Xi'an for centuries, and the Muslim Quarter of the city extends north from the Drum Tower over small alleys and backstreets, which feature halal butcher shops, small mosques, food markets and shops selling typical wares.

This historic house belonged to an affluent family back in the day so you can see how they lived and how they used each section of the house. You can also enjoy the varied artistic experience here including shadow play, paper cutting and painting. During shadow play talks, you can learn more about traditional Chinese tale.