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Discover the most popular places to stay in Xi'an, complete with recommendations from fellow travelers and special hotel offers
Guest User: The hotel reception and communal areas were very clean, but the corridor leading to the rooms looked dirty and lacked air conditioning, which made it uncomfortable. The room also didn’t match the pictures shown on Trip.com, which was a huge disappointment at first. However, the staff later improved the situation by replacing a dirty cushion, and the reception staff’s service was truly outstanding. My only criticism is the overall quality of the room.
No. 1 East 4th Lane
From TWD 453
Guest User: Hotel is really well located right next to the bell tower and within the city walls. Easily accessible with a metro right outside. Staff were warm and very helpful and room was adequate size and clean. Would definitely stay here again.
No. 619 East Street
From TWD 966
Guest User: Highly recommended this hotel. The location was great, infront of 钟楼station exit H. Short Walking distance to 钟楼 & theres a mall opposite hotel. Surrounded by food street & push cart food. The room was clean and spacious, comes with a living room and a bathtub. The check in counter staff, 小轩，小何，Sharon,Jason, their service was excellent. My parcel from taobao was sent wrongly to another hotel & 小轩 help me liaise with the delivery guy & resent it to Novotel. They help me with my 美团 app too. This hotel everyday 2-5pm provide free teabreak snacks at the lobby. Every night they will wechat me if i want warm milk & dessert. Upon my check out, i was given a souvenir. I will definitely stay in this hotel again if back in Xi’an.
No. 16 Anban Street (Yisushe Block, City Center)
From TWD 2,409
Guest User: The room was elegant, comfortable, and cozy to stay in. Check-in was fast, and the service was excellent. I highly recommend it for future visits.
1st Floor, Building 2, Yunlong Building, No. 46 Duanlümen
From TWD 291
Guest User: ALL GREAT! • Cleanliness: Tidy & well-maintained • Comfort: Bed quality, quietness & high technology • Amenities: Good toiletries & my room’s view was large window street 😍 • Check-in/out: Smooth & easy • Staff: Polite, helpful & professional (im checkin at 2am, staff welcome me with smile and offer us hot tea. She even upgrade our room. Thanks😘 • Facilities: There’s laundry room where i use steam iron👍🏼 • Location & Atmosphere Surroundings: Near attractions with didi. Im glad im booked this hotel. Less crowded and easy to access everywhere 😉 • Overall Experience & Recommendation: Exceeded expectations🩷 please keep up this quality 👍🏼
1st Floor, Unit 1, Tower A, Jinzhong Building, No. 290 West 1st Road
From TWD 1,414
Guest User: I highly recommend this hotel if you are staying in Xi’an. Perfect for our family of 5. The Leisure Suite was amazing! So spacious! Huge living area, bathroom and bedrooms. This made our stay so comfortable having 3 kids. There is also laundry facilities which is an added bonus! It was great to be able to move on to our next location with all clean laundry. The breakfast was also great, and the location is right next to the city wall entrance and not too far from the Drum and Bell Tower. The staff were all fantastic! They were very helpful during our stay. Thank you 安妮| 前厅部 for checking us in and out of the hotel and very patient with us as we don’t speak Chinese. She was able to translate our messages and answer any questions we had. There was also a gentleman on the front desk at times who was also very helpful (sorry, I didn’t catch his name). We will be staying here again next time we visit Xi’an. This hotel is really great value! I will share a video on my YT channel “The World n Us”
4th Floor, Unit 1, Building 1, Dongmen Meibo City, No. 1 East Street
From TWD 828
Guest User: I was impressed from the moment I arrived. I got an upgrade to a room with a view of the bell tower. The room was well-equipped, especially the bed, which was very comfortable. If I'm in the area again, I think I'll stay here again.
4th Floor, Tower B, Jinzhong Building, No. 2 North Street
From TWD 690
Guest User: First time visiting Xi'an! The hotel is very close to the subway station—just a few minutes' walk, making getting around and sightseeing super convenient. The check-in process was smooth, and the staff were very friendly. My first impression upon entering the room was how clean it looked. In the morning, worried I might have left something behind as I was rushing to catch my train, I contacted the hotel right away. The staff were extremely patient and immediately went to check the room for me. They even kept me updated on the progress along the way, showing a high level of responsibility with zero perfunctoriness. Thankfully, my belongings were successfully found. Overall, the hotel excels in cleanliness, location, and the service mindset of the staff. I had a wonderful stay—thank you to the hotel team!
No. 1-117, Commercial Building 1, Hongshizihui Lane
From TWD 734
Guest User: We had the most wonderful stay at this hotel!!! Xiao Liu was very kind, and always helpful, the room was beyond perfect, clean, comfortable, quiet, modern,th bathroom was extraordinary, and the location is perfect, great view and accesible. Thank you so much Xiao Liu!!! You were very nice wirh us.
No. 2 South Street
From TWD 2,232
Guest User: The location is excellent, making it super convenient for getting around and finding food. It's right in the Sajin Bridge snack street, and you can even snap some cool photos with the hotel's lantern-decorated exterior. The subway station is only 500 meters away, and getting a tuk-tuk is easy too. The room itself was very clean; an auntie came to tidy up and refresh the toiletries every day. What I liked most was the dry and wet separation in the bathroom – very practical. Despite being in a busy snack street, it was surprisingly quiet; the soundproofing is really good. The room was also spacious and had smart controls. I'd seen so many reviews online about hotels with poor soundproofing and hygiene, so I was worried, but this hotel is definitely one I can recommend. Book with confidence!
No. 111 Sajin Bridge
From TWD 419
Want to eat like a local? Don't miss out on these top Xi'an dishes and foodie spots.
The sea of clouds and colorful forests of Longtou Mountain, and the mountains covered in red leaves at Liping—the golden viewing period is very, very short! You only have a short 20-day window each year to witness this scenery; miss it, and you'll have to wait until next year 😭 Get two completely different autumn views in one trip: majestic cloudscapes and canyon foliage. Grab a like-minded friend and head into the mountains for this autumn rendezvous 🍂 🗓 Itinerary Day 1: Meet at Hanzhong High-Speed Railway Station | Head to Longtou Mountain Take the cable car up the mountain, stroll along the suspended walkway, and watch the sea of clouds roll over layers of colorful forests; return to Hanzhong city center in the evening to rest 💤 Day 2: Depart from Hanzhong | Liping National Forest Park Walk into the canyon to find vast stretches of red leaves and watch the stream flow slowly around unique rocks; return in the afternoon, and the trip ends at Hanzhong High-Speed Railway Station 🚄 📸 Must-visit photo spots ☁️ Longtou Mountain ▫️ Longtou Cloud Walkway: Shoot the winding walkway from a distance; snap a candid shot of someone walking for an atmospheric vibe ▫️ Feiyundu Glass Viewing Platform: Use a wide-angle lens to shoot downwards and easily capture the feeling of being in the clouds ▫️ Viral Cloud Ladder: Shoot from a low angle looking up; the escalator leads straight into the clouds—an iconic photo spot ▫️ Mufeng Terrace: Wait for the sunset; the mountains set against the setting sun create rich layers of light and shadow 🌇 🍂 Liping ▫️ Hongchen Canyon: The core spot for red leaves! The red leaves reflect on the clear stream surface, making for great photos straight out of the camera ▫️ Fenglin Waterfall: Colorful forests surround the waterfall, with mist blending into the red leaves—a popular cover photo spot in Liping ▫️ Jianxia (Sword Canyon): Clear water and unique rocks in the canyon complement each other, perfect for forest-style portraits ▫️ Zhonghua Longshan: Red-brown rock walls paired with autumn foliage create a striking color contrast 🎒 Travel prep 🧥 Clothing: The temperature difference between day and night in the mountains is significant! Bring a windbreaker, fleece, or down jacket with long-sleeved base layers so you can easily add or remove clothing. Caramel, off-white, and khaki tones look softer and better in photos. You might want to bring a scarf 🧣 🥾 Shoes: There are many stone steps on the mountain paths, so prioritize non-slip, durable hiking shoes. White sneakers or canvas shoes are not recommended 🥤 Essentials: Thermos, hat, sunglasses, portable raincoat (mountain weather changes quickly), power bank, energy snacks, drinking water, motion sickness medicine ✨ Optional: Hiking poles, telephoto camera, trash bags (please help protect the mountain environment) 🌿 🏯 Along the way, you can also encounter ancient pagodas and mountain temples under golden leaves. With the daylight filtering through, the autumn vibe is off the charts! Every shot is a cinematic masterpiece with a Chinese aesthetic 📷
If you don't want to crowd the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, come to this free, thousand-year-old temple. Red walls, Tang dynasty pagoda, ginkgo, and persimmons—the autumn atmosphere is legendary. It is quiet and uncrowded, perfect for a peaceful stroll and taking traditional-style photos. ✨Basic info 📍Address: Xiangjisi Village, Guodu, Chang'an District 🎫Admission: Free, no reservation required, and you can receive 3 incense sticks for free ⏰Hours: 8:00 AM–6:00 PM. Recommended visit duration: 1.5–2 hours 🚗Transportation: · Driving: Free parking is available at the entrance, though spaces are limited on weekends · Public transport: Take Metro Line 2 to Weiqu South Station, then take a taxi for the easiest commute 🍁Autumn highlights (best from late Oct–mid-Nov) 1. Shandao Pagoda (Tang dynasty pagoda): The soul of Xiangji Temple. The ancient pagoda paired with golden ginkgo is the ultimate autumn photo spot. Low-angle shots look great. 2. Red wall and ginkgo courtyard: Golden fallen leaves cover the ground. The red walls and yellow leaves are perfect for traditional-style portraits. 3. Persimmon trees: Orange-red persimmons hang from the eaves and branches, full of autumn vibes. 4. Ancient cypresses, stele gallery, and bamboo forest: Quiet and healing, with an even more stunning atmosphere on rainy days. 📸Photo tips ✅Best lighting: 3:00 PM–5:00 PM, with soft side lighting casting shadows on the red walls and ancient pagoda ✅Outfits: Light colors, Hanfu, and new Chinese-style clothing all work well. Avoid overly revealing clothing (this is a religious site) ✅Avoid: Do not take photos of Buddha statues; try to avoid the harsh overhead light at noon. 🚶Recommended route (no backtracking) Mountain Gate Archway → Heavenly Kings Hall → Bell and Drum Towers → Mahavira Hall → Dharma Hall → Shandao Pagoda in the west courtyard. After visiting the pagoda courtyard, stroll through the courtyards to see the ginkgo and persimmon trees at a leisurely pace. 🥢Dining recommendations ▫️Quick meal (near the temple): Huayu Authentic Belt Noodles, over 600 meters away. A bowl of hot noodles is very satisfying after your visit. ▫️Hearty meal: Huangcheng Laozao Iron Pot Stew, about 3 kilometers away. In autumn and winter, the iron pot stew with pork ribs and pot stickers is perfect for groups. 💡Traveler tips 1. Try to arrive early or go in the evening to avoid crowds. It gets busier on weekends. 2. Keep quiet inside the temple, respect religious etiquette, and dress modestly (shoulders and knees should be covered). 3. If you have extra time after your visit, cross the road to Xiangjisi Country Park by the Hao River. It is a great spot to enjoy the breeze, have a picnic, and look out at the Southern Mountains for a complete half-day experience. 4. It is cool in the morning and evening in autumn, so bring a light jacket. Wear non-slip shoes as the stone paths may have fallen leaves. 📌Half-day itinerary Option A (Peaceful temple visit): Xiangji Temple (2 hours) → Have a bowl of noodles nearby, then head home. Option B (Country leisure): Xiangji Temple → Cross the road for a walk and picnic by the Hao River. Suitable for friends and families.
Xi'an Autumn One-Day Walk ✨ Xingqing Palace → Big Wild Goose Pagoda|Local Guided Route Autumn winds sweep across the Qinling Mountains, carpeting the streets of Chang'an with fallen leaves 🍂. As autumn arrives in Xi'an, ginkgo leaves carpet the ground beneath the ancient city walls, their golden hues reflected in the wind that carries the spirit of Tang Dynasty poetry through the vermilion walls. Xi'an's autumn is short yet magnificent, quiet but unforgettable, making it a worthwhile destination for a leisurely city stroll. 🏞️Tour|Recommended Highlights This one-day tour connects the Tang Dynasty royal gardens and ancient pagodas. Enjoy the autumn ginkgo scenery by day and experience the grandeur of the Tang Dynasty at night. The itinerary is relaxed and stress-free – perfect for those who prefer a relaxed pace! ✅ 📍Route Overview: Xingqing Palace Park - Big Wild Goose Pagoda & Da Ci'en Temple Relics Park - Tang Paradise Night View ⏰Tour Duration: 1 Day|Suitable for Autumn 👗Clothing: Trench coat/Modern Chinese style. Large temperature difference between day and night, bring a light jacket; the route involves a lot of walking, wear comfortable shoes. 🚇Transportation: ✅Walking to Xingqing Park is the preferred option, approximately 10 minutes. ✅Take Metro Line 3 to Dayan Pagoda Station, approximately 15 minutes. 🌿Detailed Itinerary: Morning|Xingqing Palace Park (9:30-12:30) 🎫Admission: Free|No reservation required ✨Highlights: Remnants of a Tang Dynasty royal garden, Chenxiang Pavilion, Xingqing Lake, and a large expanse of ginkgo trees. Perfect for taking photos and strolling around; no need to walk the entire park. 💡Tips: ▪️Priority for photos: Chenxiang Pavilion, Xingqing Lake shoreline ▪️Morning is the best time for photos because the light is soft, making it ideal for Hanfu and modern Chinese style outfits. 🥘 Food | Lunch (Around Xingqing Palace): Local simple meals including Hulu Tou (a type of offal soup), and mutton blood soup. The flavors are on the heavier side; those who prefer lighter flavors can choose accordingly. Snack Recommendation: Moon Rice Casserole Rice Noodles, especially the sesame sauce series, fragrant but not greasy. 🏯Afternoon-Evening | Dayan Pagoda Area (2:30 PM - Evening) 🎫Admission: Free | But tickets are required to climb the Dayan Pagoda. ✨Highlights: ▪️Da Ci'en Temple Relics Park: Ginkgo and red maple leaves frame the Dayan Pagoda; a hidden gem for autumn viewing, a local favorite📸 ▪️After dark, directly connect to the Tang Paradise night view. 💡Tips: ▪️Afternoon 3/ Visit the Ruins Park at 4 PM for the best atmosphere and side-backlighting for photos. ▪️Joy City 4th Floor Observation Deck: Free panoramic photos of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, avoiding the crowds in the square. 🥘Food|Dinner (Qujiang Area): Shaanxi-style main courses such as mutton soup, gourd chicken, and roujiamo (meat sandwich). -Snack Recommendations: Zenggao (steamed rice cake), Jinggao (steamed rice cake), and persimmon cake. 🛍️Shopping|Souvenirs & Shopping: 1. Cultural and Creative Products - Tang Dynasty cultural and creative products around the Big Wild Goose Pagoda; choose wisely. 2. Local Products - Prioritize supermarkets and shops in residential areas for items like cured beef and pomegranates; prices at tourist stalls tend to be high, so be cautious. 3. Handmade Crafts: Negotiate prices; avoid overpriced antiques and jade. 🏨Accommodation|Recommended Accommodation: 📍Address: No. 34, Huzhu Road, Beilin District, Xi'an (Lavande Hotel · Xijing Hospital Changle Park Metro Station Branch) 🚶6-minute walk to Changle Park Metro Station (Line 3), easily accessible to various attractions in Xi'an – incredibly convenient! Most importantly, Xingqing Park is right next to the hotel! The moment you enter the hotel, you're greeted by a subtle lavender scent that instantly washes away travel fatigue. The rooms are incredibly bright, with smart curtains and soft lighting, making them feel like mobile dressing rooms. They're perfect for changing into Hanfu, doing your makeup, and taking close-up makeup photos. After a long day of shooting, you can relax and recharge in your room.
Autumn Highlights 1. The autumn sky is clear and crisp, the Han River is crystal clear, and the sunset covers the river in gold, creating a perfect atmosphere. 2. Sunlight slants across the old streets, making the brick and wood carvings of the Ming and Qing dynasty guild halls look especially photogenic in the autumn light. 3. Locals still live in the town, drying autumn harvests and goods. It's full of authentic local life, with few tourists, making it quiet and comfortable. 4. The ancient town district is free to enter; the Huangzhou Guild Hall and Yangsi Temple small exhibition halls require separate admission tickets and are optional to visit. 🗓️ Two travel routes 🔹 One-day trip (short weekend getaway) Suitable for a round trip from Xi'an on the same day · 08:30 Depart, drive about 3.5–4 hours to reach the ancient town · 12:00 Lunch in the old street, try the intangible cultural heritage "Shuhe Eight Dishes" · 13:30 Explore the old street: Huangzhou Guild Hall to see the exquisite brick-carved opera stage → Yangsi Temple riverside platform (excellent view) → Wander through the bluestone alleys, duck into unnamed alleys for street photography; on the way, you can visit the cliffside mosque (please mind your attire). · 16:30 Wait for the sunset at the ancient riverside wharf, capture silhouettes against the autumn backlight and the golden river surface—easy to get great shots. · 18:00 Return trip. 🔹 Two-day slow travel (Recommended! Experience the ancient town's autumn nights in depth) Day 1: Arrive in the afternoon, check into a local guesthouse. Explore the streets in the afternoon, watch the sunset by the river in the evening; at night, the lanterns on the old street light up, take a quiet walk, and eat local snacks. Day 2: Explore the ancient town from 7:00–9:00 AM. It's less crowded and the light is soft, perfect for photographing the old street in the morning mist; take your time to look at the architectural details of the guild halls; stroll leisurely in the afternoon, buy some local dried goods, and then head back. 📸 Autumn photo spots & tips · 🌅 Golden hours: 7:00–9:00 AM and 1 hour before sunset. The autumn light is soft, and the river scenery is at its most atmospheric. · Photo spot list: 1. Platform in front of Yangsi Temple: Overlook the Han River and the panoramic view of the ancient town; the prime spot for sunset. 2. Huangzhou Guild Hall gate tower: Look up to photograph the flying eaves and brick carving details for great architectural shots. 3. The uneven bluestone alleys: Capture the depth of the old street with the slanting autumn sunlight. 4. Riverside wharf stone steps: Use the Han River and distant mountains as a background to photograph silhouettes. - Outfit: Light-colored cotton and linen or Hanfu are very suitable; it's windy by the river in autumn, so bring a light jacket; there are many stone slopes, so wear non-slip flat shoes. There is a Hanfu experience shop on the middle street of the ancient town where you can rent costumes and makeup for photos. 🍲 Must-try autumn food ✅ Top choice for meals | Yuqinghe Traditional Food (Shuhe Ancient Town Branch), a long-established local restaurant where you can eat authentic "Shuhe Eight Dishes" (a provincial-level intangible cultural heritage banquet, eight cold and eight hot dishes). It's quiet upstairs, perfect for tea and dining. A great choice for group meals, or you can order a few dishes to try if you're in a smaller group. ✅ Street snacks: Kangkang Mo (baked flatbread), pickled vegetable Louyu (jelly noodles), vegetable tofu, and fermented black bean bacon. Easy to grab while strolling the old street, and very affordable. 🏡 Two accommodation options 1. Xunmi Youth Hostel & Guesthouse (Shuhe Branch) | Top choice for young people. The courtyard is quiet, and it has a tea room, pool table, and board games. It's located right in the ancient town district, offers great value, and is suitable for traveling with friends. 2. Xunyang Shuhe Xiangwang Inn | Located at the south gate of the ancient town. Convenient location, clean and simple, easy parking, suitable for family trips. 🚗 Travel tips · 🚗 Self-driving: About 3.5–4 hours from Xi'an; navigate to "Shuhe Ancient Town Tourist Center," where there is free parking in the public lot. · 🚌 Public transport: Take the high-speed train to Xunyang West Station, then transfer to a local minibus to Shuhe Town, about 1 hour. · There is a large temperature difference between day and night in autumn, and it's windy by the river, so remember to add a jacket in the morning and evening; there are many slopes in the ancient town, so wear comfortable shoes. · When visiting the mosque, do not wear shorts or short skirts; please mind your attire.
Walking down the street, you can clearly feel the breeze softening—no longer stuffy or dry, with the sunlight feeling gentle on your skin. You don't need to travel far to popular tourist spots; the streets, alleys, parks, and city walls are all slowly being painted in shades of light yellow and orange-red. When the wind blows, leaves drift down slowly, and they crunch underfoot. Paired with the ancient city's grey bricks, it's a simple yet perfect taste of autumn in Chang'an. The daytime is perfect for a leisurely stroll and taking photos, and the evening breeze is even more comfortable. After wandering around, stop by a small shop for some zenggao (steamed cake) or a roujiamo (meat burger), and you'll feel the true happiness of autumn. ✅ A quick tip There is a significant temperature difference between morning and evening lately, so remember to bring a light jacket when you go out. If you want to see ginkgo or red leaves, check out real-time photos from other travelers beforehand, as the scenery changes quickly with the weather. To my local friends in Xi'an, what are your secret spots for an autumn stroll? And for those planning to visit Xi'an, are you hoping to catch this autumn scenery too?
Stayed at the Meihao Lizhi Hotel (Peony Square Branch) the night before to get a good rest, then set off early the next morning for Xi'an to visit Wangji Temple, an ancient temple hidden in the bustling city. This Tang Dynasty temple is free from noisy crowds. The light and shadows, colorful paintings, and ancient stone carvings make for great photos, perfect for those who love quiet culture and ancient architecture. 🚗 Transportation & Itinerary · 06:00 Depart from Meihao Lizhi Hotel (Peony Square Branch), Luoyang, head to Luoyang Longmen Station, and take a high-speed train to Xi'an. · Around 08:00 Arrive in Xi'an, have a quick breakfast, and head straight to Wangji Temple (located near the East Gate of the Xi'an City Wall, in the city center, very convenient transportation). Wangji Temple is an ancient Tang Dynasty temple built by Princess Taiping for her mother, Empress Wu Zetian. It retains exquisite Qing Dynasty paintings and glazed roof ridges. It is quiet and uncrowded, a hidden gem in Xi'an. 📜 Wangji Temple Tour Route & Photo Spots 1. Mountain Gate: The "Wangji Temple" gold-lettered plaque and the drum-shaped stones at the entrance. The morning sunlight falling on the blue brick wall creates a great atmosphere—a must-shoot. 2. Drum Tower: The intricate blue and green dougong (bracket set) paintings and carved eaves are the most striking architecture in photos. Be sure to take low-angle shots of the glazed roof components. 3. Mahavira Hall: The large incense burner in front of the hall, the golden Buddha statue inside, tree shadows on the ancient windows, and sunlight streaming through the lattice create a sense of tranquility. 4. Side Hall/Sutra Hall: Walls filled with sutra cabinets, pine and crane relief brick carvings, and wooden windows with swastika patterns. The light and shadow are excellent, perfect for slow-paced cultural photography. 5. Courtyard Corners: Circular flower windows, ancient stone lions, wooden clappers, and the "Increase Bodhi Heart" plaque on the wall. The curling incense smoke creates an amazing atmosphere. Tour duration: 1.5–2.5 hours. The temple is not large, so there is no need to rush. Take your time to feel the ancient architecture and Zen atmosphere. Try to come in the morning when the light is soft and best for photography. ⚠️ Temple Etiquette: Keep quiet inside the halls, do not make noise, and respect religious customs. 🍜 Xi'an Food Stops Along the Way After visiting Wangji Temple, there are plenty of authentic Xi'an snacks near Dongguan. ✅ Roujiamo, Yangrou Paomo, Zenggao, Biangbiang noodles, and Youcha Mahua. Grab lunch nearby and experience the taste of old Xi'an. 💡 Travel Tips 1. Outfit: Simple, solid-colored clothing matches the ancient temple architecture well and looks great in photos. 2. Equipment: Camera/phone. Morning side lighting is best for capturing the colorful paintings and light/shadow effects of ancient architecture. 3. Schedule: If you are visiting during a business trip, schedule the temple visit for the morning and leave the afternoon for work. 4. Admission: Wangji Temple is free to visit. ✨ Travel Musings Departing from Luoyang, a short high-speed train ride brings you to Chang'an. Most people visiting Xi'an head straight to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda or the Bell and Drum Towers, and few know about this Tang Dynasty temple hidden in the old city. Sunlight filters through ancient trees, casting dappled shadows on the blue bricks and painted bracket sets, while incense smoke rises slowly, free from crowded tourists. Finding a quiet, ancient temple during a business trip and touching thousand-year-old architecture is a unique romance of travel.
Before we left, I asked myself what "seeing the world" really means. After visiting five cities, I finally found the answer: it's not about checking off tourist spots, but showing them how big the world truly is. 🏛️ Beijing · From the Temple of Heaven to Qianmen Highlights: Temple of Heaven, Qianmen Street, Beijing Museum of Natural History. Standing on the Circular Mound Altar at the Temple of Heaven, my child suddenly went quiet. In the afternoon, at the Museum of Natural History, they looked up at the dinosaur skeletons towering overhead for a long time. Day 1: Temple of Heaven → Qianmen Street → Museum of Natural History A relaxed pace with the first half of the day in the park and the second half at the museum. 🍜 Food: Zha Jiang Mian (noodles with soybean paste) paired with candied hawthorns—a mix of savory and sweet. 📌 Tips: Book museum tickets in advance through official channels; the Temple of Heaven has plenty of trees, making it cooler in the morning. 🔬 Shanghai · Science Museum and Wutong Roads Highlights: Shanghai Science and Technology Museum, The Bund, Wukang Road. The science museum is full of interactive exhibits; my child was glued to one display case for ages. In the evening, we went to the Bund to watch the lights on the opposite bank turn on one by one. Day 2: Shanghai Science and Technology Museum → The Bund → Wukang Road Burn off energy during the day and take a stroll in the evening—my child was exhausted and fell asleep as soon as their head hit the pillow. 🍜 Food: Pan-fried buns (shengjian bao) with wonton soup—crispy bottoms and savory broth. 📌 Tips: Popular exhibits at the science museum have long lines, so check for reservations upon entry; it's windy by the river, so bring a jacket. 🏺 Xi'an · Terracotta Warriors and the City Wall Highlights: Terracotta Warriors, Xi'an City Wall, Muslim Quarter. Standing over Pit 1, my child didn't say a word, just stared at the rows of warriors for a long time. In the afternoon, we went up to the City Wall and rented bikes to ride a section, feeling the wind rush past us. Day 3: Terracotta Warriors → Xi'an City Wall → Muslim Quarter See the warriors in the morning and ride bikes in the afternoon—we got off and on, so it wasn't tiring. 🍜 Food: Roujiamo (meat burger) paired with lamb paomo (pita bread soaked in lamb soup)—my child was very focused on breaking the bread into pieces. 📌 Tips: Flash photography is prohibited in the pits; bike rentals on the city wall are time-based, so clarify the rules first. 🏮 Nanjing · Museum and Qinhuai River Highlights: Nanjing Museum, Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, Confucius Temple and Qinhuai River. The Republic of China-style street scene inside the museum was my child's favorite; they stood in front of the "old post office" and didn't want to leave. The steps at the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum are long, but they climbed them one by one. Day 4: Nanjing Museum → Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum → Confucius Temple and Qinhuai River Exhibits in the morning, climbing in the afternoon, and a boat ride to rest in the evening. 🍜 Food: Duck blood vermicelli soup paired with salted duck—tender duck and flavorful broth. 📌 Tips: Most museums are closed on Mondays; wear sneakers for the many steps at the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum. 🌆 Guangzhou · The Canton Tower and the Provincial Museum Highlights: Canton Tower, Guangdong Museum, Shamian Island. Looking up at the Canton Tower, my child counted the lights on it. On Shamian Island, there were people playing chess under old banyan trees, and my child went over to watch. Day 5: Canton Tower → Guangdong Museum → Shamian Island All three spots are accessible by subway, making it easy to travel with a child. 🍜 Food: Rice noodle rolls (changfen) paired with congee—tender, smooth, and easy to digest. 📌 Tips: There's a line to go up the Canton Tower, so go in the evening to catch the sunset; there's plenty of shade on the island, but still wear sunscreen in the summer. After visiting these five cities, my child asks more questions than they look at scenery. These experiences will become the foundation of their confidence in the future.
Compared to the dazzling night view of W Xi'an, I prefer the texture of the architectural lines under the soft afternoon light. It is a great time to quietly appreciate the artwork in the public areas, such as the go-kart art installation that feels like it has a time-travel story, and the cyberpunk-style 3D Terracotta Warriors mural. As a representative flagship hotel in Asia, W Xi'an features comfortable outdoor balconies in its guest rooms, and the view of Nanhu Lake is beautiful. It is about a 10-minute drive from attractions like the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, MixC, and the Grand Tang Ever Bright City. The hotel's Chinese restaurant and breakfast are both good, and you can basically taste all the local Xi'an snacks. The pool is divided into indoor and outdoor sections, and the fitness center is spacious and luxurious. It is a high-spec space for fitness enthusiasts that is worth spending half a day experiencing.
Xi'an on November 10 is the year's final "golden window." The 1,400-year-old ginkgo tree planted by Li Shimin at Guanyin Zen Temple is at its peak. The ginkgo season at Hanyangling Museum lasts until November 30, and the red maples and ginkgo trees beneath the sky bridge at Yannan Park are in full bloom. More importantly, from November through February, the broth for paomo is at its richest and most comforting. When the weather turns cold, Xi'an truly hits the spot. --- 🗺️ 2 days 1 night · A "golden + local life" route planned by light Core logic: Day 1 focuses on the local life of the old city, while Day 2 is for capturing ginkgo and autumn colors. Day 1: City Wall > Shuyuanmen > Giant Wild Goose Pagoda night view Route: Climb the City Wall at Yongning Gate > Shuyuanmen/Stele Forest area > Giant Wild Goose Pagoda night view > Finish with Shaanxi cuisine Head up the City Wall from Yongning Gate in the afternoon; the November breeze and light are perfect for a leisurely stroll, and the brick walls and tree shadows look stunning in the soft afternoon light. Afterward, wander into Shuyuanmen, where the old street archways and calligraphy shops offer a much more relaxed vibe than the popular tourist spots. Head to the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda in the evening; the night view is more atmospheric than during the day, and the illuminated ancient pagoda set against the late autumn night is the perfect way to end your day in Xi'an. 🍲 Food & drink: For dinner, find a reliable Shaanxi restaurant. Choose from gourd chicken, oil-splashed noodles, or sazi noodles based on your preference—no need to force yourself to queue at "internet-famous" spots. 🏠 Accommodation: Stay near the Bell Tower or South Gate. Budget chains cost CNY 200–400/night and are within walking distance of the City Wall and the Muslim Quarter, with Metro Line 2 providing easy access across the city. Day 2: Xiaonanmen Morning Market > Yannan Park > Guanyin Zen Temple or Hanyangling Route: Xiaonanmen Morning Market (morning) > Yannan Park sky bridge (afternoon) > Guanyin Zen Temple/Hanyangling (finish) Get up early for the Xiaonanmen Morning Market. Share some hulatang (spicy soup), oil tea with fried dough twists, zenggao (steamed sticky rice cake), and roujiamo (meat burger) with a friend or two to get a true taste of Xi'an's breakfast culture. Head to Yannan Park after 2:00 PM; the white sky bridge is currently the hottest spot in Xi'an for autumn photos. Stand on the bridge to look down at the sea of red and yellow trees, where the slanted light after 3:00 PM makes the red leaves look translucent and layered. Choose one for your ginkgo finale: For visual impact, head to Guanyin Zen Temple (about a 1-hour drive from the city; the thousand-year-old ginkgo is at its peak, so booking in advance is required). If you want "history + ginkgo" with plenty of activities, go to Hanyangling, where you'll find hundreds of acres of ginkgo forest and a Han-style market—it's worth visiting anytime before November 30. 🍲 Food & drink: Have a simple bowl of oil-splashed noodles near Yannan Park for lunch. Before you head back, find a paomo restaurant packed with locals. Break the bun into soybean-sized pieces by hand and enjoy it with pickled garlic and chili sauce—this is the quintessential bowl of Xi'an in November. 📸 Three must-take shots ① Yannan Park sky bridge (after 3:00 PM): A top-down shot of the sea of maples and the city skyline—the current "it" spot for autumn colors in Xi'an. ② Guanyin Zen Temple thousand-year-old ginkgo (afternoon side lighting): Use the 1,400-year-old tree as your backdrop. Just standing under the tree creates a massive sense of scale that makes for an epic photo. ③ Gangxing 4th Road Ash Avenue (2:30 PM–4:30 PM, optional if on your way): A multi-kilometer "golden tunnel." The side-backlighting gives the leaves a natural soft glow. It's less crowded and great for photos. Navigate to "Gangxing 4th Road" to get there. ⚠️ A word of advice: Ginkgo leaves don't wait for anyone—the leaves at Guanyin Zen Temple and Hanyangling can drop in an instant. The underground exhibition hall at Hanyangling is chilly, so bring a light jacket. There's a lot of walking in the parks, so flat shoes are a must. Try to visit paomo restaurants before 11:00 AM or after 2:00 PM to avoid the crowds; queuing during peak meal times can be exhausting. Set off this week to capture Xi'an's golden hues and enjoy that bowl of hot soup.
Don't go to crowded ancient towns in November. In these 4 places, you can count the number of people on the street on weekdays, and a 2-day, 1-night trip can be kept under CNY 500. I just got back from one of them, and the more I walked, the more I felt: the off-season is the right way to see ancient towns. 🏚 Shanxi Qikou (by the Yellow River) Take the high-speed train to Lvliang Station, then hire a car for about 100 km/2.5 hours to Qikou. The core street area is free, and there is a cleaning fee of CNY 10–20 to enter Lijiashan Village. Standard rooms in cave dwellings by the Yellow River are CNY 100–300/night, and a bowl of wantuo is CNY 10–15. A 2-day, 1-night trip costs about CNY 300–600 per person. The highlights are the Yellow River Canyon and the old Ming and Qing dynasty trade routes; it's very quiet. 🍂 Shaanxi Qingmuchuan (straddling three provinces) Take the high-speed train from Xi'an North to Ningqiang South for about 1.5 hours (second-class seat CNY 108), then transfer to a bus for 2 hours/CNY 55 to enter the town (last bus at 5:00 PM). Riverside homestays on the old street are CNY 80–120/night in the off-season, and walnut buns are CNY 3 each. A combined ticket for the Wei Family Residence is CNY 54. A 2-day, 1-night trip costs about CNY 400–500 per person. Huilongchang Old Street is almost empty at night. 💧 Zhejiang Qiantong (a living ancient town with flowing water) Get off at Ninghai Station, then transfer to a local bus or take a taxi for about 30 minutes. Admission is about CNY 50 (discounts available for online advance booking). Off-season homestays are CNY 100–200/night, and the "Qiantong Three Treasures" meal costs about CNY 30–60 per person. A 2-day, 1-night trip costs about CNY 400–700 per person. The alleys are full of flowing water, which is much more pleasant than those dry, imitation ancient streets. 🌿 Guangxi Huangyao (a small town by the Yao River) Take the high-speed train to Hezhou Station, then transfer to a bus for about 1–1.5 hours. Starting October 10, 2026, adult admission is CNY 66, and homestays in the ancient town are CNY 117–180/night. Fermented bean curd chicken costs about CNY 40–70 per person. A 2-day, 1-night trip costs about CNY 400–700 per person. ⚠️ Tips 1. The last bus to Qingmuchuan leaves at 5:00 PM. If you miss it, you might get stuck in Ningqiang overnight, so leave early. 2. Huangyao admission is CNY 66. Hezhou residents and primary/secondary school students nationwide (July 10–December 31) are eligible for free first-entry admission for a limited time. Check your eligibility before you go so you don't buy a ticket unnecessarily. 3. There is a cleaning fee to enter Lijiashan Village in Qikou. Bring some cash, as mobile signal for scanning QR codes is often unavailable in the mountains. 🌟 Who is this for: Office workers who want to avoid crowds, are on a tight budget, and can leave right after work on Friday. A 2-day, 1-night weekend trip is just right. Where are you planning to escape to this week? Let me know in the comments
Today, our tour guide, Xiao Zhang, led the group. He was incredibly enthusiastic and attentive, helping us find the best viewing spots and providing very detailed explanations. It was a very rewarding and worthwhile trip, with no shopping stops throughout the entire visit.
不会冒泡的小鱼儿Version 1 | Brief and General (Platform Direct Review) Five-star rating! The guide was professional and humorous, clearly outlining the historical timeline of the Zhou, Qin, Han, and Tang dynasties, instantly bringing stories to the otherwise cold artifacts. The explanations were easy to understand, the pace was comfortable, and they patiently answered our questions. It was especially rewarding for the children. If you visit the Shaanxi History Museum, definitely seek out this guide! Version 2 | Heartfelt and Detailed (Suitable for a Long Review) Highly recommend this guide! With solid knowledge, they didn't just read from a script. Following the order of the exhibits, they eloquently recounted the stories behind national treasures such as the Hejia Village Treasures, the Gold-Inlaid Beast-Head Agate Cup, and the Grape and Bird Pattern Silver Incense Burner. Their language was vivid and easy to understand, catering to both adults and children, making the entire tour engaging. Even in the crowded exhibition hall, they were considerate of everyone, maintaining a suitable pace. After listening to their explanation, I truly understood the Shaanxi History Museum and the thousand-year history of Chang'an. Thank you so much! Version 3 | Family-Friendly (For Kids) Visiting the Shaanxi History Museum with my child and meeting the amazing guide, Ms. Liu Yanrong! Her explanations were simple and engaging, incorporating textbook knowledge, captivating the children and prompting them to ask questions. She transformed weighty history into enjoyable stories, helping children build a historical framework. A truly worthwhile trip! Highly recommended for families with children on educational tours.
205***15This trip to Xi'an made up for the regret of never having climbed the Xi'an City Wall. I climbed the wall in the evening, rented a bicycle, and rode along to watch the light show on the wall. I experienced the fusion of the ancient and the modern, which was an experience I never expected. When you come to Xi'an, you really must go to the city wall to see it, so you don't have any regrets.
hu_xl119What is love in this world that makes one willing to die for it? Even emperors, wielding power over the world, cannot relinquish the love of their lives. This is Huaqing Pool, the place where Emperor Xuanzong of Tang was devoted to his entire life. 🏯 Love Hidden in the Hot Springs: The Embodiment of Romanticism in the Tang Dynasty "In the spring chill, the emperor bestowed a bath at Huaqing Pool; the smooth hot spring waters cleansed her delicate skin." A thousand years ago, the romantic scene described by Bai Juyi was brought to life here. - Begonia Bath (Consort Yang's Bath): Built in 747 specifically for Consort Yang, the entire pool is shaped like a begonia flower, constructed of double-layered bluestone, small and exquisite. The circular water inlet at the center of the pool retains traces of lotus-shaped sprinklers, allowing one to imagine the warm water gushing forth, soaking the consort's delicate skin—every detail holds a unique expression of pampering. - Lotus Bath (Imperial Bath): Emperor Xuanzong's exclusive bath, built in 723, is the largest of the five baths. Measuring 10.6 meters long and 6 meters wide, the pool once housed double lotus-shaped fountains at its bottom. When the water sprayed, it resembled blooming lotus flowers, showcasing both the emperor's majesty and his doting affection for Yang Guifei. This hot spring embodies the splendor of the Tang Dynasty. Red walls reflect in the clear water, and blue stones bear the marks of time. Here, without needing to imagine, every brick and tile instantly transports you back to the Tang Dynasty, allowing you to feel the profound affection that transcends a thousand years.
A小胖蛋蛋猪🐷There's only one path up Mount Hua since ancient times; its perilousness is world-renowned. Hiking from Yuquan Temple to the North Peak took 3.5 hours. Then, the loop route continued through the Middle Peak, East Peak, South Peak, and West Peak, with the West Peak cable car taking the descent. The entire trip took nearly 9 hours. The West Peak cable car was excellent; there were few people on the way down, no queues—perfect.
_We***48I think this place is worth a visit because of the history behind it and a once in a lifetime experience. I would do it again, just to know more of the history.
_TI***guThe ticket is valid for two days. On the first day, you can visit Huaqing Pool and watch the "Song of Everlasting Regret" performance in the evening. On the second day, you can enter through the main gate of Huaqing Pool and climb Mount Li, which is very pleasant. There are occasional performances inside the park, and the female staff members are very cute.
历史中的湛蓝天空Take a stroll through the Tang Dynasty Never-Sleeping City on a pleasant autumn evening. The evening breeze is cool, the lights are dazzling, and the atmosphere of the Tang Dynasty is palpable. Street performances are everywhere, and tourists come and go, creating a lively scene. No need to plan a route; just wander around and explore as you please. Immersed in this world of lights, feeling the warmth of everyday life and ancient charm, this is what small satisfactions in ordinary days are all about. Chang'an's autumn nights are as bright as ever.
呦未来可期The Xi'an Bell Tower is absolutely worth a visit, a five-star rating is a must! 🌟 🏯 Rich in History: Built in 1384 (the 17th year of the Hongwu reign of the Ming Dynasty), it is the largest and best-preserved bell tower in China, with over 600 years of history. Its triple-tiered, four-sided pyramidal roof, covered with dark green glazed tiles and gilded with real gold, showcases the magnificent style of Ming Dynasty architecture. 📍 Excellent Location: Located in the heart of Xi'an, at the intersection of four main streets, it is the landmark core of the ancient city. From the tower, you can enjoy panoramic views of all four main streets, offering an unobstructed view of the ancient city's layout! 🌃 Breathtaking Night View: As night falls, the entire bell tower is illuminated, resplendent in gold, reflecting the bustling city lights. Every snapshot is a masterpiece; it's truly the pinnacle of Xi'an's nighttime scenery! 📸 Perfect for taking photos: During the day, climb the tower to admire the details of the ancient architecture; in the evening, watch the sunset cast golden light on the glazed tiles; and at night, enjoy the light show—each time of day offers a different kind of beauty. Nearby are the Drum Tower and the Muslim Quarter, so after visiting the Bell Tower, you can easily sample all of Xi'an's delicious cuisine! A visit to the Bell Tower is a must when in Xi'an; experience the unique charm of this ancient capital. Highly recommended! 👍
童哥哥23⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The Great Qin (赳赳大秦) – BEST Show I’ve Seen in China!I’ve watched numerous spectacular shows across China, where many cities have their own signature productions. But The Great Qin in Xi’an is hands down the BEST I’ve ever seen!The scale is UNBELIEVABLE! Its theatre holds a Guinness World Record for the largest theatre stage. The costumes, choreography, massive sets, lighting and visual effects are all TOP-NOTCH! Even the audience seating platform moves during the performance. Truly an unmatched experience!📸 Photos and videos are NOT allowed during the show, so you’ll have to take my word for it! You can preview some official footage on their WeChat mini program.🎟️ Useful tips:📍 Great Qin Theatre, Tiantai Rd & Fengdong Ave, Xi’an.💰 Tickets: Approx. RMB 209–688, with different seating zones (A–D).⏱️ Duration: Around 80 minutes.🚕 Outside the city centre; DiDi is convenient.🎫 Book ahead on Trip.com!10/10! An absolute MUST-SEE when visiting Xi’an!
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