Shaanxi Province is a thriving one, and is one of the country’s main hubs. It is home to more than 36 million people as well as a number of bustling cities and beautiful scenery. Dating back over a million years, it is one of the most important provinces in China and a backbone for the whole civilization.
Some of China’s earliest inhabitants lived here, developing settlements along the Yellow River and spreading throughout the country. Since the beginning of Chinese history, there have been an impressive 13 dynasties that set up capital cities here and many more that developed it as a cultural hub. Because of this, Shaanxi is more like a living museum than a province.
As you would expect, there is a wealth of historic sights to explore. One of the oldest is the Banpo Village Remains, a site which dates back 6,000 years and belongs to the Neolithic Age. The capital of the province, Xian, boasts a number of wondrous sights including the ancient city wall (the best preserved ancient wall in China), which was built in the 1st century BC; 72 ancient tombs and remains including the mausoleum of Xuanyuan (who initiated Chinese civilization); the Big Goose Pagoda built in 652 AD; the Drum Tower; the Bell Tower and Famen Temple.
A highlight of every visitor’s trip to Shaanxi Province, however, is a trip to the Museum of Qin Terracotta Warriors and Horses. These warriors guard a site which has become known as the eighth great wonder of the world and were only discovered in 1974, having been hidden since 210 BC. Several sections of the army have been excavated.
As well as historic and religious sights, the province is also home to a wealth of natural sights, which include five of the most famous mountains in China. The most prominent mountain is Mount Huashan, lying 120kms east of Xian. This is famous for its imposing cliffs and stunning landscape.
The Hukou Waterfall on the Yellow River is the second largest waterfall in China and is extremely impressive. Huaqing Hot Springs are a must-visit for any nature lover. They have fascinating legends and myths surrounding them, including a very emotional love story between Emperor Xuanzong and a young beautiful girl known as Yang Yuhuan.
Shaanxi is a fascinating mix of old meets new. It is shrouded in historic importance, but at the same time is one of the most developed provinces in the country. It is a fascinating place with a number of accommodation and entertainment options as well as restaurants serving up international and local delights.
Getting There & Away
Xian is home to an international airport with daily services to and from Beijing (1 hour, 40 minutes) and Shanghai (2 hours, 20 minutes). Other ways to reach Xian include train and bus. There are overnight train and bus services to and from Beijing. Train journey times from the capital are 10 hours, while buses take approximately 12 hours.