Xi'an – holiday in the city of the Terracotta Army and the Silk Road
China
Created by Mondo for Finnair
The sight leaves you speechless: thousands of soldiers, petrified in strict formation, ready to defend their emperor. Seeing the Terracotta Army at close range is one of the most impressive experiences China has to offer.
The terracotta soldiers guarding the tomb of Qin Shi Huang, the unifier of China who died 2200 years ago, is the most famous but by no means the only attraction in Xi’an. The views from the top of Xi’an’s old city wall spread across the heart of the metropolis. It is most fun to explore the wall, which stretches over 14 kilometres, by riding a bike.
Xi’an used to be where the Silk Road ended and many different cultures met. Xi’an still remains one of China’s most significant cities with a Muslim population, with the busy Muslim Quarter known for its colourful street food stands.
Around Xi’an, the Daoist holy mountain of Mount Hua is the top attraction. The top of the mountain can be reached by a cable car, while those looking for more excitement can opt for the stomach-churning via ferrata hiking route.