Putting aside the crowded tourist routes —living in Xi’an is like waking up every day in a city where ancient history breathes with everyday life. The city has stood for thousands of years, with ancient walls encircling the old town, pagodas rising toward the sky, and streets that hold stories of dynasties past. Strolling under old trees, breathing in the soft air mixed with the fragrance of osmanthus and the warmth of street food, listening to locals chat in the honest Shaanxi dialect, and finding satisfying snacks on every corner. This ancient capital blends grand historical sites, peaceful old neighborhoods, bustling markets, and a calm, sincere way of life—steady, warm, and full of character. Unlike fast-paced modern cities, Xi’an moves at its own gentle, unhurried rhythm. Ancient city walls, quiet temples, traditional courtyards, and modern subways live together naturally, making it a beloved home for anyone who loves real, peaceful daily life.
To truly experience the soul of Xi’an, you have to eat and drink like a local: Xi’an noodles with minced pork are a classic favorite—smooth, chewy noodles mixed with rich sauce and fresh toppings, simple but deeply flavorful. Crispy, golden roujiamo—the“Chinese hamburger” —with tender stewed pork inside, is a daily comfort for locals.
For breakfast, there are warm, fragrant steamed buns, soybean milk, and crispy fried dough sticks, filling the morning with coziness. Lamb soup, cold noodles, and persimmon cakes carry the pure, honest taste of this ancient inland city, hearty and satisfying.
Traveling in Xi’an is convenient and pleasant: wide avenues and tree-lined paths make walking and cycling especially enjoyable. Shared bikes and electric scooters glide easily along the ancient city walls and through old neighborhoods. The subway covers the whole city, quickly connecting historical sites and modern districts. Walking or cycling on the ancient city wall lets you slowly enjoy the view of old and new Xi’an. On weekends, you can stroll around the wall, visit ancient pagodas, take photos in old streets, or relax in peaceful parks—every corner carries a quiet sense of history.
Immerse yourself in local life: take a morning walk along the ancient city wall or in a community park, watch the elderly practice Tai Chi, exercise, and chat casually —this is the truest pace of Xi’an. When spring comes, flowers bloom everywhere, willows sway gently, and the whole city feels soft and peaceful. Stroll through Muslim Quarter, visit ancient temples and traditional streets, taste local snacks, admire historic architecture, or wander slowly through old residential lanes, where ancient charm and modern life blend perfectly. In the evening, walk under the lit city wall, feel the cool evening wind, and listen to relaxed laughter—Xi’an’s warmth is hidden in every ordinary day.
Local Tips: Spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons to visit Xi’an, with mild temperatures and clear skies. Wear comfortable shoes for walking along the long ancient city wall and historic streets. Don’t be surprised by locals’straightforward, warm way of talking—people in Xi’an are honest, kind, and hospitable, and this simple kindness is part of the city’s charm. Take time to slow down, walk quietly, and feel Xi’an’s timeless peace and everyday joy.
Copyright Disclaimer for Images
Some images displayed on this website are sourced from the internet and are used for informational and reference purposes only.
We respect the intellectual property rights of all creators. The use of these images is not intended to infringe upon any owner’s copyright.
If you are the copyright holder of any image used on this site and believe it is being used without appropriate permission, please contact us. Upon verification of your ownership claim, we will promptly take the necessary action, which may include removing the image or providing proper attribution as per your request.
Please reach out to us at: [email protected]
