Historic Xian Photo Gallery

City Wall


Xian's current city wall primarily dates from the Ming dynasty. Well-preserved and intact, the wall itself is quite wide and can easily accomodate both cyclists and pedestrians.

The guidebooks recommended visiting the wall from the south gate. It was well-lit up already just after sunset.

40 yuan later, enter the gate and head up the staircase to the top of the city wall.

The Bell Tower is not so far away.

Shuyuanmen


A renovated street lined with historic architecture, the pedestrian street specializes in cultural works, including Chinese calligraphy brushes and paintings. While there is a food stall every now and then, the atmosphere is still very cultural.

These are musical instruments.

Capture the revolutionary spirit with these thin metal cups. Pay 10 yuan.

For those who love traditional Chinese paintbrush paintings, this is a paradise. There were plenty of these art books for sale with great bargains everywhere.

Small Wild Goose Pagoda


Built during the Tang dynasty in the 8th century, the pagoda originally had 15 stories but a subsequent earthquake in the 16th century destroyed the top.

It is possible to climb to the top for a panoramic view of Xian.

Looking north, I could not spot the city wall. There are too many tall buildings nowadays.

Looking west, the scale of highrise development becomes more visible.

Looking south, there seem to be more historic buildings next to the pagoda in a very green setting.

Looking east, a line of skyscrapers marks the main boulevard that leads to the south gate.

A bit tired from the climb, the visit continues through the temple complex.

Big Wild Goose Pagoda

Across town, this pagoda also dates from the Tang dynasty. While the pagoda and temple are enclosed inside the wall, more modern amenities surrounded it.

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