Travel with Antee: Discover Xi'an

Xi'an is one of China's great historical cities. Once the eastern starting point of the Silk Road and the capital for several dynasties, it combines world-famous archaeology, grand old-city architecture, lively night streets, and deeply satisfying local food. It is also a place where children can connect with history through big visual experiences—from the Terracotta Army to illuminated Tang-style avenues and live performances.

In this illustrated feature, Antee explores Xi'an through five big themes: the Terracotta Army, the city wall and landmark towers, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and Tang-style experiences, the immersive “Jiu Jiu Da Qin” show, and Xi'an's food culture.

1. The Terracotta Army: Meeting an Ancient World

A trip to Xi'an usually begins with one of China's most famous archaeological discoveries: the Terracotta Army (兵马俑). Inside the enormous excavation hall, thousands of life-size warriors, horses, and military figures stand in ranks, giving families a powerful first encounter with Qin history.

For children, this site feels almost cinematic: rows of clay soldiers stretch into the distance, each with its own face and details. For adults, it is a reminder of Xi'an's importance as the capital of the Qin empire.

2. Walking History: Xi'an City Wall and the Bell Tower

The Xi'an City Wall (西安城墙) is one of the city's most enjoyable family experiences. Walking—or biking—along the wall gives visitors a broad view of old and new Xi'an together. Red lanterns, banners, and stone walkways create a festive atmosphere, especially in the late afternoon and evening.

Nearby, families can also appreciate the illuminated Bell Tower (钟楼), one of Xi'an's signature landmarks and a natural anchor for exploring the city center.

3. Big Wild Goose Pagoda and Tang-Style Xi'an

The Big Wild Goose Pagoda (大雁塔) connects Xi'an to the spread of Buddhism and to the scholarly history of the Tang dynasty. The pagoda's elegant shape is instantly recognizable, and the surrounding temple grounds create a calmer pace after the more crowded city highlights.

Nearby, Tang Dynasty Everbright City (大唐不夜城) fills with lanterns, costumed performers, glowing architecture, and a stage-like sense of spectacle. It is one of the easiest places for families to feel the romance of Tang-inspired Xi'an.

4. A Must-See Experience: “Jiu Jiu Da Qin” (赳赳大秦)

For a more immersive cultural experience, Xi'an travel can include the live performance “Jiu Jiu Da Qin” (赳赳大秦). This spectacular stage experience helps families feel the emotional power of Qin history through music, drums, banners, armor, movement, and large-scale staging.

Rather than simply reading about the Qin dynasty, visitors can watch it come alive in a dramatic theatrical setting. For children, it turns history into a story; for adults, it adds energy and atmosphere to the trip.

5. Taste of Xi'an: One Dish, One Photo

Xi'an's food culture is one of the strongest reasons to visit. Compared with many southern Chinese food traditions, Xi'an cuisine often feels heartier, more wheat-based, and more robust in flavor. Flatbreads, noodles, soups, and street snacks all play a major role. Some dishes are closely associated with the Muslim Quarter and halal lamb or beef traditions, while others show the broader wheat-loving food culture of northwestern China.

Roujiamo (肉夹馍)

Often called a Chinese-style meat sandwich, roujiamo combines chopped, braised meat with a crisp, flaky flatbread. It is portable, deeply savory, and a perfect first bite for exploring Xi'an street food.

Biangbiang Noodles (biángbiáng面)

These famously wide hand-pulled noodles are one of Xi'an's signature foods. A bowl of biangbiang noodles usually comes coated with chili oil, aromatics, and bold flavors that make each bite feel satisfyingly dramatic.

Liangpi (凉皮)

For something cooler and more refreshing, try liangpi. These silky cold noodles are often served with chili oil, bean sprouts, cucumber, and a tangy, spicy dressing that balances heat and freshness.

Yangrou Paomo (羊肉泡馍)

One of Xi'an's most famous comfort dishes, yangrou paomo is a hearty lamb soup served with torn flatbread. Kids may enjoy the interactive idea behind it: traditionally, diners tear the bread into pieces before it goes into the broth.

Soup Dumplings / Steamed Dumplings (灌汤包 / 蒸饺)

Soft, juicy dumplings are another family-friendly favorite. Whether you think of them as soup dumplings or simply delicious steamed dumplings, they add a gentler and more familiar note to Xi'an's bolder food landscape.

Persimmon Cakes (柿子饼)

These golden persimmon cakes show Xi'an's sweeter side. Their crisped exterior and soft, sweet interior make them a memorable seasonal-style treat.

Zenggao (甑糕)

A beloved Shaanxi dessert, zenggao layers sticky rice with red dates. It is glossy, fragrant, and satisfying—almost like a comforting rice cake pudding with a festive feel.

Pomegranate (石榴)

While not a cooked dish, pomegranate is strongly associated with Xi'an and Shaanxi. Its jewel-like red seeds add another layer to the region's food identity, especially in autumn.

A 4-Day Family Itinerary for Xi'an

Why Families Will Love Xi'an

Xi'an works beautifully for family travel because it offers strong visual history, easy-to-recognize landmarks, nighttime cultural atmosphere, memorable food, and experiences that feel both educational and exciting. Children can imagine emperors and warriors, walk ancient walls, enjoy glowing lantern streets, and discover how food reflects the city's Silk Road and northwestern roots.

Until the Next Adventure…

From the ranks of the Terracotta Army to lantern-lit Tang streets, from city-wall sunsets to bowls of noodles and warm local sweets, Xi'an is a city full of stories. Follow Antee through ancient capital history, living culture, spectacular performances, and unforgettable flavors—and discover why Xi'an remains one of China's most rewarding family destinations.