Xi'an (Chinese: 西安; pinyin: Xī'ān), is the capital of the Shaanxi province in China. As one of the most important cities in Chinese history, Xi'an is one of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China because it has been the capital of 13 dynasties, including the Zhou, Qin, Han, the Sui dynasty, and the Tang. Xi'an is also renowned for being the eastern terminus of the Silk Road and for the location of the Terracotta Army, made during the Qin Dynasty. The city has more than 3,100 years of history.

The cultural and historical significance of the area, as well as the abundant relics and sites, help Xi’an enjoy the laudatory title of 'Natural History Museum'. The Museum of Terra Cotta Warriors and Horses is praised as 'the eighth major miracle of the world', Mausoleum of Emperor Qin Shi Huang is listed on the World Heritage List, and the City Wall of the Ming Dynasty (1368 - 1644) is the largest and most intact Ming Dynasty castle in the world. In the city, there is the 3,000 years old Banpo Village Remains from the Neolithic Age (approximately from 8000 BC to 5000 BC), and the Forest of Stone Steles that holds 3,000 stone steles of different periods from the Han Dynasty to the Qing Dynasty. Around Xi’an, the Famen Temple enjoys the reputation of being the 'forefather of pagodas and temples in Central Shaanxi,' because it holds the finger bones of Sakyamuni -- the founder of Buddhism. The natural landscape around Xi’an is also marvelous Mt.Huashan one of the five best-known mountains in China, is famous for its breath-taking cliffs and its unique characteristics.

Xi’an snacks are inexpensive and served in large portions. A good place to taste all of them is Hui Minority Street. On the street, small restaurants and temporary food stands serve very cheap snacks. Mutton Paomo is the most famous snack of Xi’an. Shaanxi-style sandwich(meat with pancake ) and cold noodles are very popular, too. Other snacks are waiting for you to discover them. All in all, any experience in this ancient city will bring you fun and possibly a little surprise!

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