Xi’an’s history dates back more than 3100 years. Its ancient name is Chang’an, which means “long peace”. During the reign of the Tang Dynasty (AD 650-800), China was the most powerful state with a highly developed culture. And Xi’an was then the largest city in the world in terms of area – its population was one million people. One of China’s most important historical and cultural centers, it remained the country’s capital for 13 dynasties of Chinese emperors, including the Zhou, Qin, Han, Sui and Tang dynasties.
Photo: Courtesy of China Media Corporation
Today, Xi’an has the status of the provincial capital. According to 2018 statistics, more than 12 million people lived there. It is the most populous city in northwest China and also the third largest city in western China, ahead of only two other cities, Chongqing and Chengdu.
Xi’an ranks among the top 40 science cities in the world according to the Nature Index.
Moreover, according to the Nature Index, Xi’an is considered one of the top 40 science cities in the world in terms of the number and level of scientific research. Several prestigious Chinese universities operate here, including Jiaotong University, Northwestern Polytechnic University, Chang’an University, Xidian University and others.
Photo: Courtesy of China Media Corporation
Xi’an is one of the most visited cities in China by tourists. It is home to a large number of historical monuments and cultural attractions, including six World Heritage Sites – the Terracotta Army, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Small Wild Goose Pagoda, Ruins Park Daminggong Palace, Weiyangong Ruins Park and Xinjiaosi Temple. The attention of tourists is also attracted by the ancient city wall, the bell tower, the Shaanxi Provincial Museum, the Stele Museum, the Zhongnanshan Mountains and many other objects.
Photo: Courtesy of China Media Corporation
It is very easy for tourists to get to Xi’an. Just an hour’s drive from the city center is a modern airport. Flying is the fastest way if you are departing from South China, Shanghai (only 2.5 hours flight) or Guangzhou (3 hours). You can also get to Xian by high-speed train from Beijing (in 5-6 hours) or from Luoyang (in just 1.5 hours).
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