Xi’an was one of the destinations on my China journey that completely surprised me. Before arriving, I knew only the basics: that it once served as the capital for ancient Chinese dynasties and was the eastern terminus of the Silk Road. What I didn’t expect was how alive history would feel here — because in Xi’an, the past isn’t locked in a museum, it’s part of everyday life.
A Journey into China’s Ancient Heart
Xi’an is one of the oldest cities in China and served as the political and cultural heart of multiple dynasties, most famously the Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD). Back then, it was known as Chang’an, one of the largest and wealthiest cities in the world. Xi’an’s long history is visible everywhere — from its ancient city walls to the temples, towers, and alleys that have survived for centuries.
The Terracotta Army – Silence Amid Giants
No visit to Xi’an would be complete without seeing the Terracotta Army — and I was absolutely blown away.
Located about an hour outside the city, this astonishing archaeological complex is the burial army of China’s first Emperor, Qin Shi Huang. What began as a secret royal project over 2,200 years ago has become one of the most important historical rediscoveries of our time.
Walking into the enormous pits filled with rows upon rows of life-sized terracotta warriors felt unreal. Thousands of sculpted soldiers, each with individualized features and expressions, stand in formation as if ready to defend the emperor even in death. There’s a calm, almost surreal silence in the halls, broken only by the echoes of visitors — and it makes the experience even more powerful.
I documented the entire visit with my camera — from the massive earthen platforms to the delicate details of armor and facial features. It’s one thing to read about the Terracotta Army in books… and another to stand among them in person.
Exploring Xi’an’s Old Town – The Thursday Market
After all the sweeping history, what truly made Xi’an feel real to me was its everyday life — especially the Thursday market in the old town.
This market isn’t a staged tourist attraction; it’s a genuine local experience. Every Thursday, the streets surrounding the ancient city walls come alive with stalls selling fresh produce, local snacks, traditional goods, and handmade crafts. I wandered through narrow alleys shaded by centuries-old architecture, stopping to taste local dumplings, grilled skewers, and sweet baked treats.
The energy was vibrant — farmers haggling over prices, families shopping for the week, elderly men playing chess on street-side tables, and children chasing pigeons near the bell tower. This wasn’t just a market; it was a slice of daily life in Xi’an, and it added a completely different dimension to my trip.
Why Xi’an Was Unforgettable
Xi’an has that rare ability to be both ancient and alive at the same time. You can stand beside relics that are over two millennia old and then, just moments later, wander through a market filled with laughter and song. For me, it was a perfect blend of awe-inspiring history, cultural immersion, and authentic human interaction.
Whether you’re a history buff, a photographer, or simply someone who loves exploring real places where past and present collide, Xi’an is one of those cities that stays with you long after you leave.
Life in Focus: Exploring the Diversity of Cultures Through the lens 