Xi’an is one of my favorite cities in China – a place where I can feel, smell and touch the history. Each time driving from the airport to the city of Xi’an, passing by those different sized mounds which are the tombs of ancient emperors, I always wonder how it looked in historical times, centuries before this highway was built. It wouldn’t be hard to imagine since there are so many of them and it is the farm land and natural, which pretty much the way it was before.
I love the country side of Xi’an, especially on the way from Xi’an city to Terra Cotta Warriors Museum. It is a nice drive. Normally we’ll stop at Banpo Museum, where you can learn about the leadership role that women played in the whole society in this area. Other than its amazing exhibitions, I love the peacefulness and quietness of this place. Sometimes they play the ancient musical instrument there, the Xun, a kind of round, ball-like instrument with a hole on top where you blow. The tune is always so sad and vivid, fitting right in with the atmosphere here. Of course, the highlight is the Terra Cotta Warriors – the eighth wonder of the world! The Terra Cotta Warriors, created by Qin Shihuang, the first emperor of a unified China, this 8,000 strong army of life-sized warriors and officers along with horses and chariots serve as his eternal guarding force, still in their battle formations, facing east against the six conquered kingdoms; eternally vigilant and awaiting the command of their emperor! Emperor Qin Shihuang’s mysterious tomb is still uncovered and untouched, waiting for his day to face the world again! Each time while standing with them face to face, I still couldn’t believe the courageous look and spirit of 2000 years – what a breathtaking scene! Towards the end of the day, we’ll enjoy the same scenic drive back to Xi’an. The beautiful country scenery under the sunset makes you wonder how it looked thousands of years ago under the same light of sunset.
My next highlight is the city wall. Xi’an still maintains the traditional ancient city wall, which is square in shape and symmetrically designed. At night, the whole city wall is completely lit up, framing the beautiful silhouette of this ancient capital!
After a full day of visiting these treasures you can head to bed, and after such a rich and fantastic sightseeing you will have a sweet dreams: maybe greeting Qin Shihuang, or dancing with some Tang dynasty ladies… 
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