Xian

Xi'an, formerly romanized as Sian, is the capital of Shaanxi province, located in the northwest of the People's Republic of China, in the center of the Guanzhong Plain. One of the oldest cities in China, the city was known as Chang'an before the Ming dynasty. Xi'an is the oldest of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China, having held the position under several of the most important dynasties in Chinese history, including Zhou, Qin, Han, Sui, and Tang. Xi'an is the starting point of the Silk Road and home to the Terracotta Army ofEmperor Qin Shi Huang.

Because of the city's many historical monuments and a plethora of ancient ruins and tombs in the vicinity, tourism has been an important component of the local economy, and the Xi'an region is one of the most popular tourist destinations in China.

The most famous attractions include Terracotta Army, Huaqing Pool, Bell Tower and Drum Tower, and Great Wild Goose Pagoda & Small Wild Goose Pagoda.

The Terracotta Army are located 25 miles to the east of the city center, is a collection of terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China.

The Huaqing Pool are a complex of hot springs located in an area characterized by mild weather and scenic views at the northern foot of Mount Li, one of the three major peaks of Qin Mountains.

The Bell Tower built in 1384 during the early Ming Dynasty, is a symbol of the city of Xian and one of the grandest of its kind in China.

The Great Wild Goose Pagoda is a Buddhist pagoda located in southern Xian. It was built in 652 during the Tang Dynasty.