Things to do in Qian County

Zhaoling, this majestic mausoleum, stands quietly atop the main peak of Jiuyi Mountain in Liquan County, Shaanxi Province. It is the joint burial site of Emperor Taizong of Tang, Li Shimin, and Empress Wende, Zhangsun. As the largest of the 18 Tang Tombs in Guanzhong, its grand scale, vast area, numerous accompanying tombs, and rich cultural relics are all breathtaking. 🕰️ The construction of Zhaoling took 13 years, from the initial burial of Empress Wende in the 10th year of the Zhenguan reign to the interment of Emperor Taizong, Li Shimin, in the 23rd year of the Zhenguan reign. It embodied the wisdom and dedication of countless craftsmen. Meticulously designed and overseen by Yan Lide, Zhaoling is more than just a mausoleum; it is a silent history book, telling the glorious chapter of the Tang Dynasty's prosperity. 🌳 The location of Jiuyi Mountain is truly blessed. Surrounded by mountains, the winding Jing River flows through it, and before it lies the vast Guanzhong Plain, with the Wei River flowing through it like a jade belt. This geographical location is not only excellent for feng shui but also symbolizes peace and prosperity, perfectly complementing the achievements of Emperor Taizong of Tang, Li Shimin, in both civil and military affairs. 🐎 The "Six Horses of Zhaoling" are undoubtedly the crowning jewels of the mausoleum. These six steeds, loyal companions of Li Shimin throughout his campaigns, are immortalized in high-relief stone carvings at the mausoleum's edge. Each steed possesses a unique posture and expression, as if narrating the days of war and battle. Sadly, "Salu Zi" and "Quanmao Gu" were stolen and shipped to the United States, leaving a lasting legacy for the Chinese people. Today, the remaining four are treasured in the Xi'an Forest of Steles Museum, attracting countless visitors to see their splendor. 🏺 In addition to the "Six Horses of Zhaoling," numerous precious cultural relics have been unearthed from the mausoleum, including statues of chieftains from fourteen states, exquisite pottery figurines, and vibrant Tang Dynasty sancai (three-colored glazed pottery). These artifacts are not only artistic treasures but also vivid reflections of the prosperity and prosperity of the "Zhenguan Reign" during the heyday of the Tang Dynasty. From various perspectives, they showcase the remarkable achievements of the time, encompassing economic, social, and cultural fields, offering a glimpse into the splendor and grandeur of that era. 👑 The system of accompanying burials at Zhaoling is also unique. Emperor Taizong of Tang issued an edict requiring meritorious officials, close relatives, and those who assisted his time in their deeds to be buried alongside him. This measure not only demonstrated his deep affection for his deputies but also underscored the harmonious relationship between the emperor and his subjects during the Tang Dynasty. According to statistics, a total of 154 individuals were buried there, including renowned figures such as Zhangsun Wuji, Cheng Yaojin, and Wei Zheng. Their tombs, like stars surrounding the moon, form a vast complex of accompanying burials within the 300,000-mu (approximately 1,000 acres) Zhaoling cemetery. Many ministers considered it an honor to be buried there, and even their descendants followed their fathers' example. This orderly tradition of accompanying burials has become a unique historical hallmark of Zhaoling. 🌟 Today, Zhaoling has been designated a first-tier National Key Cultural Relics Protection Unit and a National AAAA-level Tourist Attraction, attracting visitors from all corners of the world. When you step into this ancient land, it is as if you have traveled through time and space and returned to the magnificent Tang Dynasty.

Knowing that tickets to the Shaanxi History Museum are hard to get, I tried signing up for a guided tour. I was surprised by how reliable the service was from a large platform. The guide, Zhang Xiaojing, sent me the important information and meeting point the day before. He was also there early the next day to wait for everyone. Thanks to Xiaojing, the explanations were excellent, covering the most famous treasures and unique exhibits in Halls 1, 2, and 4 very clearly.

Yuanjia Village is an administrative village under the jurisdiction of Yanxia Town, Liquan County, Xianyang City. It is famous for its Guanzhong folk culture and rural tourism and is known as the "No. 1 Village in Guanzhong". The village was formed before the Yuan Dynasty, with an area of ​​0.4 square kilometers. It was listed in the second batch of traditional Chinese villages in 2013. The main industries include traditional snacks, farmhouses and handicraft workshops. Yuanjia Village is located in the hinterland of the Guanzhong Plain in Shaanxi, China, about 60 kilometers away from Xi'an, with convenient transportation. Tourism Features and Industries Folk Culture Experience: Preserve the style of Guanzhong folk houses, and regularly hold performances such as Qinqiang and shadow puppetry (national intangible cultural heritage). Food Street: It brings together Shaanxi specialty snacks such as mutton soup buns and cold noodles, and is known as the "Guanzhong Food Museum". Handicraft Workshop: Visitors can participate in the production of traditional crafts such as tofu, vinegar, and oil.

This trip to the Xi'an Museum was so lucky! The guide I met was fantastic. She didn't just read the signs mechanically; her explanations were incredibly engaging. Whether it was the tri-colored flying horse or the story of the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, she explained everything in a clear and easy-to-understand way. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to many of the historical anecdotes. She patiently answered all my questions. Normally, exploring on my own would only give you a superficial view, but with the guide, I truly understood these ancient artifacts. It was a very rewarding experience, definitely a five-star review!

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.

醴泉湖真挺不错的。它就在礼泉县城北2.5公里处，开车很方便 。 到那儿一下就被震撼了，水面又大又开阔，听说是依托万亩甘河水库开发的，有10000亩大，峡谷长达7公里，看着就让人心旷神怡。湖水特别清澈，波光粼粼的，岸边绿树成荫，空气清新，负氧离子满满。 这里娱乐项目也不少，能坐豪华游艇、观光游览船游湖，感受微风拂面；也能在岸边垂钓，享受悠闲时光。带孩子的话，还有亲子水上娱乐区域可以玩。周边配套也挺全，农家乐、特色餐饮都有，玩累了能好好吃一顿。周末想放松亲近大自然，醴泉湖真是个好选择 ！

A highly underrated museum in Shaanxi. Although a Class II museum, the Zhaoling Museum boasts over 400 Class I artifacts, and over 1,000 Class I and Class II artifacts combined. Considering how few artifacts are on display, the 17-meter-tall Xu Maogong stele, a national treasure, sits openly in the open air, unprotected for over 1,000 years. While I don't fully understand the stories behind many of the figures, it still seems quite impressive. I plan to learn more and return in the future.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Five-star review! Highly recommend Ms. Yanzi from the Qin and Han Dynasty Hall of the Shaanxi History Museum! Ms. Yanzi's explanations are professional and solid, and her presentation is vivid and engaging. Our group wasn't a premium small group tour, but the quality of the explanations far exceeded my expectations. Compared to several premium small group tours I've attended before, it was just as good, and much more affordable. My daughter is particularly fascinated by Qin Dynasty history and listened attentively throughout the entire tour, especially enjoying Ms. Yanzi's explanations. Following Ms. Yanzi through the Qin and Han Dynasty Hall, she clearly explained the stories behind the Qin and Han artifacts, making the whole experience incredibly enjoyable and well worth it!

Teacher Tangtang's teaching is really excellent! 🤩🤩 I learned a lot from her throughout the course. She reminded me of my high school Chinese teacher, someone incredibly knowledgeable! ✌︎' ֊'🥳🥳🥳 In short, I really enjoyed it! 🥰🥰🥰

Add this to your itinerary if you're visting Xi'an! I have been to the quarter 3 times. Walk along the main path of the quarter BUT make sure you also walk down the narrow alleyways! There are LOTS of shops and food stalls you don't want to miss. Open 24/7 too so make sure you visit!