29 Fun & Best Things to Do in Xianyang, China
Comrades in travel and culinary exploits, brace yourselves to experience a city woven with tales from the ancient script of China’s fabled past. Xianyang, a hidden gem unpolished by the international tourist’s lens, is a city to have marked boldly on your globe-trotting itinerary. In this deep dive, I’ll take you through the labyrinth of its history-soaked streets, rolling out timeless tales, and unfurling the local music to your ears. As we peel back the layers, you’ll discover the best things to do in Xianyang, a city that merges the old world charm with the hustle and bustle of modern China.
Hear that? That’s the melody of ancient qin music, whispering the legends of dynastic conflict and reconciliation over centuries. Do you smell that? That’s the tempting aroma of Hui mutton bubbling in its piquant stew, punctuated with the fragrance of hand-pulled Biang Biang noodles. You see, Xianyang isn’t just a city with “things to do”. It’s a living tapestry – a palimpsest where each thread and each scrawl holds a story to tell.
So, hold on to your chopsticks and your curiosity, as we delve into the depths of Xianyang’s hidden treasures. Prepare your senses for a rousingly tasty rollercoaster ride through haggler-laden markets, ancient ruins whispering tales of greatness, and back alleys where life happens as it always has, unembellished and unabashed. More than a mere stopover, Xianyang is a city begging to be savoured, like a well-aged Baijiu—potent, unforgettable, and utterly intoxicating. In true Bourdain fashion, let’s step outside the glow of the neon signs and experience the majesty of authentic China. Your adventure starts here, with the best things to do in Xianyang, China.
Things to Do in Xianyang, China
1. Buried In Time at Han Yang Ling
Tread the hallowed grounds of Han Yang Ling, a site where history has been tirelessly preserved under a blanket of seemingly unending terracotta. Once the mausoleum of Emperor Jing, it holds a time-capsuled charm that nudges the hunger in avid history buffs and piques the curiosity of the uninitiated layman.
As you meander through the exhibit halls, you’ll come face-to-face with miniature human figurines riddled with expressive details, their silent yet potent odes to the mighty Han Dynasty. Every hidden corner of this archaeological marvel tells you more, making every step a reawakening into an era lost yet still intrinsically tangible.
Take a plunge into the mysteries of the subterranean museum, the dimmed lights casting enigmatic shadows that echo tales of the ancient Emperor and his consorts. The archeological preservation in its raw allure offers you whispers of intrigue, each artifact a silent cry to the fleeting impermanence of human existence.
Sun-lit pathways guide your journey through this ancient netherworld, flanked by an army of faithfully standing pits, where miniature life-sized terracotta warriors lie in their eternal slumber. These spectral figures, empty-eyed but exuding a serene radiance, compel one to connect with their eons of tranquil stoicism.
Your visit to Han Yang Ling becomes more than a cultural tour—it’s your passageway into an epoch revered, a grand feast for the starved souls of the past. This in-depth exploration prompts you to unlock more layers of the historic narrative, a journey through time framed by the silent endurance of entombed echoes. In the quietude of these chilling historical remains, you’ll listen, and you’ll understand, the underrated song of forgotten times. The connection you forge here is not just with Xianyang but with an entire civilization in splendid oblivion.
Address: CWVG+M4F, Weicheng District, Xianyang, Xianyang, Shaanxi, Cina, 712038
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2. Unearthing Dynasty Dreams at Tang Shunling
Concealed among wind-whisked willows and carmine-colored maples, you’ll find Tang Shunling, a subdued yet poignant tribute to China’s illustrious emperors. Shadowed in the expanse of Xianyang’s verdant landscape, it carries the spectral whispers of a once supreme dynasty, etching its history into the heart of every curious visitor.
One foot over the threshold into this silent sanctuary, and time irrevocably dissolves. Meandering through the labyrinthine maze of towering stone-carved steles, you come face to face with potent symbols of China’s gloried past. The familiar bustle of the city fades into a foreign lexicon as the echoes of regal pageantries and royal processions play out in this sepulchral theatre.
Yet, Tang Shunling is not merely the resting place for ephemeral grandeur; it’s a testament to China’s unshakeable conviction and indomitable spirit. The soul-stirring tranquility comes alive as if every stone, every inscriptions voice an epic tale of perseverance, wistful nostalgia, and a triumph that never shies away from its folly.
Venture beneath the stone giants and grandeur, and there you will find a detail only reserved for the most meticulous of travelers – murals that serve as historians for the dynasty. Each stroke a testament to the times long gone, every pigment narrating tales of wars fought, and victories celebrated, infusing the silent air with their stories.
As you step out from the time-woven gates back into modernity, your heart aches with a sense of loss – nostalgia for a time you never lived, for emperors you never met. And there, beneath the Xianyang sky, Tang Shunling becomes more than an attraction you’ve ticked off the list; it becomes a memory carved into your traveler’s soul.
Address: 中国 Shaanxi, Xianyang, 陕西市
3. Unmasking the Ancient Majesty at E’fang Palace
Right there, nestled in the whispers of Xianyang, stands the grand E’fang Palace. A testament of meticulous architectural wit since the Qin Dynasty, which houses tales of once sprawling courtyards, majestic halls, and an ephemeral lake reflecting the glory that once was – an eloquent testimony to heroic triumphs and tragic downfalls.
There’s an undeniable mystique permeating the air. Stand there, close your eyes, listen. You might catch the echoes of ancient court whispers, pomp, and pageantry. The palace is no longer physically present, but its spirit, oh yes, it’s palpable. This sublime landmark breathes history; it exhales life. At its height, it was even described as outshining the sun—a poetic hyperbole reminiscent of the power the kingdom once wielded over the land.
One might argue that to truly appreciate this place, one must taste the bittersweet tang of loss, trace the phantom lines of broken walls with their fingers, envision gleams of golden armoury long gone. But don’t let the melancholy veil fool you – for shrouded in these poignant memories is an invigorating narrative of a civilization’s lifeblood rarely witnessed elsewhere. These tales act as a mirror, illuminating not just the past, but our perceptions of power, wealth, and fleeting glory.
As a traveler, to saunter through E’fang Palace is to meander through an ethereal gallery of time itself. It’s not a mere pit stop. It’s an immersive dive into the depths of time, an unforgettable passeggiata along the avenues of antiquity that will echo in your memories for years to come. So, dear explorer, step out, lose and find yourself in the resilient echoes of this grandeur.
Address: 44 Hongguang Rd, Weiyang, Xi’An, Shaanxi, 中国 710077
4. Unearthing Echoes of Emperors at Qin Xianyang Palace Museum
Journey with me, dear vagabond, to a little corner of Xianyang, where history waits, patient and unyielding, beckoning travelers to dive down the rabbit hole of ancient Chinese culture. Enter the realm of the Qin Xianyang Palace Museum, a sanctuary of stone, wood, and whispers from epochs past.
This hallowed ground hums with a different energy, one that pulsates with the heartbeats of lost empires. Here, the Qin Dynasty, once a powerful force that united China, echoes through millennia. Its cloaked in half-seen shadows, yet flashes brilliantly under the afternoon sun. The vast hallways cradle the memories of a thousand secrets, their stone walls heavy with the weight of countless dynastic whispers.
Each artifact tells a tale, a chronicle frozen in time, waiting to be unveiled. From meticulously carved jade to gilded bronze figurines, these vestiges of civilization transport seekers to a time of emperors and battles, of poets and scholars. The museum’s astounding detail is candid, a tribute to generations long gone but not forgotten.
The air here is thick with the aroma of crisp parchment and well-worn relics, blending harmoniously with the faint smell of earth, a silent testament to the passage of time. Towering Terracotta Warriors stand vigil, an unfaltering guard of history, seemingly ready to spring into action at the faintest drum of war.
Be still, listen closely, and let the Qin Xianyang Palace Museum unveil its enigma. Peel back the layers of time, uncover the narrative of the past, and let it seep into the marrow of your bones. And as you walk, you’ll realize, much like me, that each footstep in this relic ground is indeed a footprint on the pages of dynastic lore.
Address: CV75+9V2, Weicheng District, Xianyang, Xianyang, Shaanxi, China, 712039
5. Journey Through Time at the Hanchangling Mausoleum
Step off the beaten path and fall under the spell of the profound yet understated majesty rooted in the Hanchangling Mausoleum. Here, in the silent, solemn embrace of an earthly tomb, you can touch the pulse of ancient nobility, dating back to the Western Han Dynasty.
The Mausoleum tells a tale not merely of its denizen, Emperor Liu Qi and his loving Empress Wang, but of an era steeped in heritage, brimming with stories that echo through the whispers of time. This landmark isn’t a place—it’s a teleportation feat, a ticket that hurls you back over 2,000 years, infiltrating the royal regalia, the gallantry, and the artistry of a once-great empire.
Shrouded in mystery and folklore, the spectacle propels you into a landscape strewn with jade-trimmed carriages, terracotta figures, and ancient relics, all safely ensconced under a glass floor. Stand there, stare, and listen: it isn’t silence you hear, but a silent symphony narrating the drama of dynastic China. It’s a triumphant display of quiet resilience, a mausoleum that’s been weathering storms, wars, and decay only to come up, standing tall.
Yet, this is no theme park of the past. This is history – raw, powerful, and intriguingly cryptic. It’s the spot where yesterday’s mysteries blend seamlessly with today’s air of romance—the secret code to a time traveler’s paradise. So walk must tread these grounds, for it’s here that Xianyang’s heartbeat lies buried, waiting to be discovered by the curious traveler. So pack your spirit of adventure and trace your fingertips along the seams of time at the Hanchangling Mausoleum. Unearth a piece of history and remember – in travel, as in life, the real voyage of discovery lies not in seeking new landscapes, but in looking with new eyes; here’s your chance.
Address: CVMJ+7FM, Weicheng District, Xianyang, Xianyang, Shaanxi, Kina, 712037
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6. Hitch a Ride on History’s Coattails at 秦咸阳遗址 (Qin Xianyang Ruins)
Unearth the silent whispers of bygone epochs held captive at the 秦咸阳遗址 (Qin Xianyang Ruins), an expanse home to the timeworn remains of China’s ancient imperial city. A tapestry of history stretched across a sprawling 180 kilometers, this place doesn’t just bear testimony to its past; it sits you down, pours you a cup of green tea, and narrates tales from a time where regal dynasties ruled supreme.
Here, the remains of the Qin Dynasty materialize like mirages etched in the windswept sands, reclaiming their glory amidst the charisma of Xianyang. The wind carries fragments of poetry of long-deceased scholars, seemingly conducting unseen orchestras as they rustle through the dried leaves, resonating within the ruins of a once-magnificent palace.
Nevermore shall you tread on these hallowed grounds without sensing the spectral presence of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, he who presided over the construction of the iconic Terracotta Warriors. Walk through this cradle of ancient royalty, and in the glimmer of the Chinese sun, the stone pillars reach out, beckoning to share their ages-old secret lore.
Saunter down the ancient city’s skeletal remnants, amongst remnants of grandeur and drama, of unquenched thirst for power and poignant tales of fall. Each stone, each curve, and crevice, whispers a story, instilling a sense of humility against the inexorable march of time.
Picture this, not as a mere visit but a quantum leap through centuries. The Qin Xianyang Ruins is no ordinary pitstop—it’s a conversation with humanity’s shared past, a testament to quintessential Chinese ethos, cavorting between the real and mystical in a dance as old as the ruins themselves. A journey here is not for mementos or touristy snapshots – it’s about feeling the heartbeat of an ageless civilization, and in doing so, finding oneself amidst the echoes of history.
Address: CV52+VV6, Weicheng District, Xianyang, Xianyang, Shaanxi, 中国 712039
7. Unearthing Majesty at the Zhao Mausoleum
If it’s true that the past speaks through the silence and stones of history, then the Zhao Mausoleum is one articulate oracle. Set amid the undulating folds of Xianyang’s landscape, this hushed locale shuns the ostentation of its counterparts for a more profound interaction with antiquity.
Walking amidst these solemn tombs might feel like being flung headlong into a parchment of history. And oh, what an intoxicating narrative it spins, flirting with your imagination and stoking a sense of humble wonderment as you tread the paths once walked by noble ancestors of yore.
It’s not just the final resting place of Emperor Taizong of Tang; it’s a testament to a time when mortals aspired to touch the empyreal, bound by a mystical blend of respect for the earthly and the eternal. Every stone you pass whispers tales of power and ambition, of valour and vanity, each sculpture crying out to be scrutinized. Here, an enigmatic smile of a buried diety. There, a frieze inscribed with forgotten names, their stories forever etched in the ever-watchful stone.
The allure of Zhao Mausoleum is best savored slowly. It is an elaborate tapestry woven with patience and respect, offering up an intimacy with the past that feels almost illicit, like overhearing the secrets of an era thought silenced. Engulfed by the sobering serenity, centuries start to sieve through your thoughts, bestowing upon the ambience, a bone-deep resonance.
If history is the elixir of travel, then the Zhao Mausoleum is a draught uncorked at journey’s end. And in its measured silence, you’ll hear history’s most beautiful symphony– played out not on strings, but the echoes of a stone labyrinth brimming with stories.
Address: JFJQ+V8P, Liquan County, Xianyang, Shaanxi, China, 713207
8. Unearthing Eternity at the Hanyangling Museum
Welcome to a burial site like no other. The Hanyangling Museum, the final resting place of Emperor Jing of Han, offers a titivating spectacle into the morbidly beautiful realm of the ancient Chinese buried but still vibrant in spirit. It’s a sprawling solemnity stretching against the panoramic background of Xianyang, an ancient capital echoing tales of royalty, reverence, and romance.
Beneath your feet, cryptic chambers extend, like the intricate capillaries of history, the silent whispers from the dark resonating in the earlobes of the living. Half voyeur, half archaeologist, an enigmatic see-through glass walkway enables you to observe the phantoms of an epoch now entombed. Feel the ghostly presence of the state’s bygone grandeur, an underground assembly of thousands of half-sized terracotta warriors, silent sentinels armed and poised for undying duty.
Above, the sky is a grand contrast, a tranquil watercolor masterpiece. It spells solace and paints over the grim shades of death with an ancient form of artistry known to mankind – hope and rebirth.
The museum is an odd symmetry of life’s wonders and loss. It challenges your senses and shines light onto the human obsession with immortality. Here, in this underbelly of the ancient world, you come face to face with the eternally elusive question of an inevitable end, artfully posed against the backdrop of a fascinating history.
Watching over all this, seemingly undeterred by the weight of centuries gone by, stands the ghost of Emperor Jing, a benevolent ruler whose love for his people transcended life and has weathered time itself. His mausoleum is more than a monument, it’s a testament to time and humanity’s relentless pursuit of perpetuity.
Address: CXR2+QX9, Airport Hwy, Weicheng District, Xianyang, Xianyang, Shaanxi, China, 713702
9. Dive into Dynasties at Tang Paradise
Meander into the mythic world of the Tang Dynasty as you step across the threshold of Tang Paradise. You might feel that time has folded back upon itself, spiriting you away to an ancient epoch shaped by ornate artistry, profound philosophy, and celestial reverence. This enormous royal-style park is designed for indulgence in the splendors of historic Chinese culture and refinement, teeming with life that thrums just beneath its tranquil surface.
Echoes of poetic whispers wrap their tendrils amidst the ethereal mists of Tang Paradise, the evocative beat of traditional music pulses beneath your feet, and the intricate visual tapestry of the park unfurls around you like an emperor’s scroll.
At every corner, there are shimmering lakes mirroring regal pagodas, silently narrating tales of royal intrigue. Wander through the gardens where trees flower in burst of color, flamboyantly nodding their greetings to the sky—scenes that could inspire a thousand sonnets. Then there’s the magic after sundown when the ethereal Nighttime Dance, a spectacle of light and music, breathes a supernatural glow onto the water.
Yet, it’s not just these sensual delights that enchant. The heartbeat of Tang Paradise is palpable in its tether to history, its pursuit of preserving a golden age. Every cobbled pathway, every wistful ink painting, lodges a gnawing thirst for understanding deeper into your soul—the spirit of the Tang Dynasty, distilled.
To stroll within Tang Paradise isn’t just a casual amble in Xianyang—it’s an invitation to walk through the veil of time, surrender to the whispers of history, and taste the lingering flavor of a cultural era that shaped an empire, and the world.
Address: 99 Furong W Rd, Yanta District, Xi’An, Shaanxi, China, 710061
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10. Walking The Line on Time: Exploring the Ancient City Wall
Trudging along the Ancient City Wall, a silent sentinel that stands guard over Xianyang, is like unearthing an epic narrative sculpted in stone—the whispering tales echo with the footfall of imperial processions. Every inch of this fortification stirs alive under your touch. The weathered bricks tell tales of emperors and dynasties, warriors and artisans, fused together over the centuries by sweat and mortar. This is an undulating ribbon of history that physically frames the panorama of Xianyang’s beating heart. Unadulterated, the view stretches as far and wide as your dreams.
The atmosphere thrums with a potent blend of timelessness and history, drenched in millennia of cultural sediment. You’re treading the same path as ancient scholars did while discussing politics or philosophy, surrounded by the chaotic symphony of thriving city life below and the consuming stillness above.
As night unfurls, the city wall metamorphoses into a sublime tableau, adorned with lanterns casting a gentle, ethereal glow. It’s a picturesque spectacle, a vibrant juxtaposition of fiercely preserved history against the pulsating metropolis that Xianyang has become, a testament to the ceaseless march of time.
This wall gives you a fresh perspective that no glossy travel guide or documentary ever could. Every footstep on this old-world rampart serves as a physical link to a proud, storied past—melding beautifully within an equally captivating now. It’s not just about sight-seeing—it’s about becoming a temporary, albeit fascinated, inhabitant knee-deep in the intimate life-story of Xianyang.
Address: Chine, Shaanxi, Xi’An, Beilin, 陕西
11. Uncover the Creepy-Crawly Wonders at Yangling Insect Museum
Let your eyes descend into a fascinating realm of buzzing, creeping, and fluttering delights – the heartbeat of the planet distilled into a single, surreal spectacle. The Yangling Insect Museum, a beguiling menagerie of six-legged wonders and iridescent butterflies, beckons.
As you step into this lair of the little, the breath of biodiversity wraps around you like an ancient silk scarf woven from a million minute threads of life. Each glass box serves as a stage, the drama of existence unfolding right under your nose, with each species trying to whisper its furtive secrets of survival.
The museum, in its eerie charm, tells the tale of nature’s vast tapestry through inhabitants you might overlook beneath the towering edifices of human endeavor. It enlightens visitors on the insects’ profound influence on our environment – from seemingly obscure tasks like pollinating flowers, combating pests, or disposing of decay, to helping decipher the sciences of resource management and behavioral study.
Don’t dismiss this experience as merely academic, though. Suspend your dread if you carry any, for this homage to invertebrates is enchanting in its strange allure. It’s a persuasive argument that the tiniest organisms may hold the answers to the planet’s most enduring enigmas.
And as you leave, you almost feel a newfound respect for the underfoot and overlooked. That’s the power of the Yangling Insect Museum – it disassembles your reality, offering you a new paradigm to perceive the world through the kaleidoscope lenses of the littlest earth dwellers. Strands of micro narratives wind together, creating a connection that forever links you to the unseen world of insects and their indispensable role in the circle of life.
Address: 73MG+376, Yangling District, Xianyang, Shaanxi, China, 712100
12. Unravel the Threads of Time at Xianyang Confucian Temple
Step through the gates of the Xianyang Confucian Temple, and you’re welcomed by an otherworldly aura. Like slipping through the seams of time, you’re instantly immersed in centuries of tradition, wisdom, and respect. This isn’t just a journey, it’s an initiation into a deeper understanding, a rendezvous with ancient thought operating on a time cycle quite unlike our own.
From the grandeur of the Temples to the simplicity of the scholar’s quarters, every inch breathes history. The stone dragons guarding the gate, once symbols of authority, now lead you into silence. The spacious courtyards adorned with dense trees confess tales of reverence and profound philosophical debates from countless moons ago– if only one listens closely.
Every room here is a quiet tribute to the extraordinary scholar Confucius. Imagine the kind of conversations that these walls have eavesdropped on in their silent vigil over centuries, the footfalls of countless scholars echoing within them.
Your journey isn’t complete without an encounter with the Dacheng Hall. Contemplation settles into your bones as you traverse its historical depths. It’s a place that leaves an echo in one’s soul, a yearning for a time when wisdom was king.
With every step you take, you can’t help but feel a kinship with this place; its stoic endurance firmly intertwined with its perennial pursuit of knowledge. It’s a communion with the past, a stroll through China’s intellectual legacy. A visit to the Xianyang Confucian Temple isn’t just sight-seeing– it’s soul-seeing. It’s not just a place to visit; it’s an experience to be savored, a lavish feast for the senses and the intellect alike.
Address: China, Shaanxi, Xianyang, Weicheng District, Xianyang, 中山街 邮政编码: 712021
13. Digging Up The Past at Maoling
Beyond the smoky columns of aromatic street food stalls and the colorful bustle of night markets, a silent sentinel of history lies nestled in Xianyang’s heartland. Maoling, the mausoleum of Emperor Han Wudi, invites you to plunge into a forgotten world. Its grandeur oblivious to the fleeting moment, this architectural marvel sprawls in formidable dignity, holding steadfast against the onslaught of time.
Around you, ancient relics hold whispered secrets in their crumbled forms, silently narrating tales of glory and downfall. Majestic stone tomb guardians, once fierce watchers of the emperor, now fraternize with the wind and air. Their presence conjures an eerie yet exhilarating chill, the palpable energy of their watch burning bright even in their stoic silence. Each artifact, each monument, is a breadcrumb trail leading to unraveling the enigma that is the epoch of Han Wudi.
The journey into Maoling’s embrace is a languid waltz through a priceless gallery of the past—from the imposing tomb of Princess Pingyang to the statues of the Qilin, mythical animals symbolizing prosperity. This isn’t just a tourist stop; it’s an exclusive banquet served to only the most ardent history enthusiasts, a feast of the senses steeped richly in the depths of the Han Dynasty.
Today, Maoling stands mute yet eloquent, its mere existence speaking louder than any guidebook. Allow its past to blossom before your eyes, and the echoes of empires long gone will find succor in your adventurer’s spirit. Delve into these forgotten chronicles, feel the silent hum of the past, and uncover the magnificence tucked away within the heart of Xianyang. Thus, dear wanderer, let your journey at Maoling be a compelling masterclass in imperial remembrance.
Address: China, Shaanxi, Xianyang, Xingping, 茂陵
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14. Wandering through the Smorgasbord of Flavours at Yongxingfang
You step into a vibrant world, senses struck by a cacophony of irresistible aromas; a manifestation of the culinary heartland beating in the ancient city of Xianyang. Welcome to Yongxingfang, a foodies’ paradise nestled amidst the labyrinthine streets of an age-old city once the center of the world.
Picture the symphony of sizzling pans against the fiery woks, rhythmic chopping of fresh ingredients echoing through lively stalls. It’s where tradition sears, fries and simmers in ingenious recipes, secret sauces, and century-hewn skill, each dish a chronicle of culinary legacy. Roaming amidst timeless stalls, you find offerings ranging from a humble bowl of Biang Biang noodles, strapping as wide belts, to Liang Pi, rice noodles tossed in tangy, spicy dressing, revealing the soul of the Shaanxi province one bite at a time.
Dig deeper, and Yongxingfang unveils itself beyond gastronomy. It’s a living, breathing museum clad in the cinematic old-world charm where traditional artisans etch, weave, and carve fascinating stories. Look out for the shadow puppetry display, an art distilled over a millennium, or let your eyes wander over celadon porcelain, polished to perfection.
So, join the rhythm of the enigmatic Yongxingfang, where each twist and turn lead you to an alley of adventure, a smorgasbord of unique experiences. It’s time to taste the tales of a city blended in rich, flavorful broths and art dyed in heartfelt passion, one that leaves its indelible stamp on your travelogue. This is not just a meal; it’s an edible heritage journey bursting with aftertastes of culture, history, and cherished memories.
Address: 7X7C+W3J, Dongxin St, 钟楼商圈 Xincheng, Xi’An, Shaanxi, China, 710005
15. Unearth Stories Encased in Clay at Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum
Discover a convergence of history and mystery painted in strokes of baked earthenware at the Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum. Your footsteps echo against the hushed marbled interiors, each step sinking deeper into the artistic repository of centuries past enveloped in the aura of grandeur. Underneath a canvas of high vaulted ceilings, thousands of life-sized terracotta warriors stand in phalanx formation, their hardened gazes locked in perpetual readiness for their divine emperor, each carrying a tale as unique as their faces sculpted meticulously.
From the crisp air around the horses’ clay hooves to the weathered, minutely detailed armor of the foot soldiers, the expanse whispers echoes of the Qin Dynasty’s magnificence, rich with tales from an epoch lost in translation. Each statue, varying insignia, and weapon, meticulously restored, symbols of a warrior’s duty, is an uncanny representation of stoic loyalty till eternity.
The aroma of aged clay, mixed with whispers of scholarly enlightenment, lingers in the air, further amplified by the soft murmur of awestruck tourists and trickle of scholarly facts from erudite guides. As part of the Museum, you aren’t just witnessing stoic clay soldiers. You’re walking amidst the pages of sealed fate, caressed by the wind of forgotten lore, and listening to the pulse of an age buried under the dust of time.
In the grand reflection of China’s first emperor’s idiosyncratic afterlife defense, you might just lose yourself on a temporal escape into the faded photographs of historical wonderment. Each carved sentinel serves as a testament to China’s past and mankind’s gripping saga—a tale that the world can touch, see, and experience within the reverent halls of this majestic mausoleum. These terracotta faces are a silent call, inviting you to listen and unveil the tales they holster within their armored chests.
Address: Lintong District, Xi’An, Shaanxi, China, 710612
16. Unraveling Millennia at the Xi’an Museum
Embarking upon the Xi’an Museum is akin to stepping back through the mists of time. As you saunter through the echoing, meticulously preserved halls, you’ll find yourself navigating thousands of years of vibrant history, story whispers seemingly recorded in each artifact. The artifacts, representing eras long past but not forgotten, aren’t mere objects behind glass, they’re conduits that open windows to the depths of China’s profoundly rich past. From the elegantly etched pottery of the Zhou Dynasty to the inscribed steles of scholars from bygone millennia – you can almost hear the hum of ancient conversations, see the fluttering of scholars’ robes, feel the air dense with tangible knowledge suspended in time.
Each section is a sensory symphony, baring the soul of a bygone era. Imagine stepping into a preserved royal garden that burbles with an ensemble of singing birds and blooms with life under the proud Chinese sun. It’s not hard to envision aristocrats of yore strolling under the intricate wooden archways, tittering secrets of court amidst the rustling of manicured bamboos.
An exploration through the museum is a pilgrimage of sorts, a voyage through dynastic leaps and bounds—pausing to acknowledge the evolution of a civilization whose ancient heartbeat still pulsates through the modern city’s veins.
But it isn’t just a visual feast. The museum offers a buffet for the linguistically curious, with detailed English narratives accompanying every exhibit—an earnest attempt to share the unfolding opera of Xi’an’s history with the world.
Indeed, exploring the Xi’an Museum swirls the fine dust of antiquities into a potent potion that quenches the thirst of the most passionate history buffs, offering them a gulp from the chalice of China’s legacy.
Address: 72 Youyi W Rd, Beilin, Xi’An, Shaanxi, China, 710064
17. Unearthing the Sands of Time at Shaanxi History Museum
Slip into the cavernous chambers of the Shaanxi History Museum, a haunting sanctuary that encloses the untamed spirits of thousands of years past. Every crumbled terracotta figure, every polished jade ornament whispers their tale to those willing to immerse in the hushed chorus of antiquity’s specters.
The museum, an inspiring chronicle of Shaanxi’s legacy, is a time-traveler’s paradise. Its vaulting ceiling holds the shadows of imperial dynasties, inviting you to unearth remnants of forgotten eras and trade caravan relics. Galleries unfold like a harmonious symphony composed on the strings of Xianyang’s ancient history, from the prehistoric age to the gilded epochs of the Tang Dynasty.
Enter the Ceramics Hall, where artistry and fealty had an affair, leaving shards of rouge-clothed soldiers and rising dragons as testament, an ensemble that slides you deeper into an age-old reverie. From there, stroll the Bronze Wares Hall, where rusted bells toll silently, echoing tales of a civilization that flourished by the Yellow River’s banks.
Feel the pull of ages past as the museum’s narratives wrap themselves around your senses. Taste the ashen dust of forgotten tombs, flickering on your tongue like ancient mementos. Touch the rough surfaces of centuries-old scriptures, their texture whispering like sandpaper against your fingertips — a tactile memoir of calligraphic elegies.
With every object, every rust-engraved legend that blooms under the museum’s spotlight, you’ll sense the fragility of time, the intoxicating intrigue of raw history in the layers of silvery dust. There, in the resounding silence of Shaanxi History Museum, the echoes of China’s foregone eras stir, beckoning you to wander among them — to comprehend, to dream, to remember.
Address: 91 Xiaozhai E Rd, Yanta District, Xi’An, Shaanxi, 中国 710064
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18. Unravel Ancient Splendors at Kaiyuan Square
Step on to Kaiyuan Square, the heartthrob of Xianyang, where the rhythm of antiquity plays in harmony with the dynamic beats of modernity. Picture the captivating dance of the morning Tai-Chi practitioners, the sunset illuminating calligraphies scrawled upon the walkways, and vibrant, chattering street vendors offering trinkets steeped in symbolic significance. From each cobblestone to the monumental structures around, every fragment whispers tales of yesteryears, seeking to share its wisdom with those attuned to listen.
Gaze upon the celebrated Bell Tower, a towering timepiece, its lofty perch overlooking the square’s bustling activities, an ever-watchful sentinel. Centered between the strikingly stark contrasts of historic monuments and glimmering contemporary boutiques, the tower presents a spectacle, a grand symphony of eras in architectural form.
Under the spectral glow of strung lanterns, nightfall at Kaiyuan Square unfurls like an enchanting scroll painting – a tableau vivant of the city’s spirit. Here, historical narratives intermingle with the laughter from smartphones and shared meals, the melody of life against a backdrop etched deeply in time.
In the ever-pulsating rhythm of Kaiyuan Square, feel the blurred lines between present and past, invoking a sense of wonder akin to stepping through a timeless portal. Its silent echoes and vibrant present inspire deeper exploration, beckoning the globe-trotter within to tread farther in this Xianyang sojourn.
Without a moment’s hesitation, let the lure of Kaiyuan Square guide you closer – into the rich tapestry of the city, unraveling, one vibrant strand at a time.
Address: 23PH+9X3, Xida St, Binzhou, Shaanxi, Xianyang, Shaanxi, Chine, 713599
19. Pinpoints on the Past at the Small Wild Goose Pagoda
Nestled in the sleepier side of China’s ancient Xianyang city, is a piece of history as understated as it’s profound – the Small Wild Goose Pagoda. A silhouetted tower spiralling skyward, its intricate layers of brick and stone whisper tales of the Tang Dynasty. As the morning mist unfolds, it reveals a centrepiece of tranquility amidst a bustling cityscape, making it a hushed pause where the present melds harmoniously with the past.
Its timeworn bricks are etched with the fingerprints of time, each a silent testimonial of the countless sunrises it has seen off. Amplifying this symphony of silence is the ancient Jianfu Temple enfolding the pagoda. Walk through its sacred gates, and an orchestra of intoxicating incense and rhythmic chants of monks transports you to an ethereal world far removed from the maddening rush of urban life.
And then, there are the bells. The pagoda seems to possess a heartbeat of its own as the dainty tinkling melodies of countless wind chimes, like prayer whispered on the zephyr, echo around its sprawling gardens. They say, if a bell rings upon your visit, you’ve invited the good fortune to make your acquaintance.
Take a moment, breathe in deeply, and let the essence of a bygone era infuse your spirit. The Small Wild Goose Pagoda epitomizes a journey not merely through the physical shell, but more potently through a state of mind. A moment etched in the cycle of history where, if you listen closely, you might hear whispers of tales wrapped in the scrolls of time.
Address: 72 Youyi W Rd, Beilin, Xi’An, Shaanxi, China, 710064
20. Embark on the Chronicles of Clay: A Journey through the Xianyang Loess Folk Culture Village
Stepping into the Loess Folk Culture Village, you ebb into a reverie of jaw-dropping geological vistas and earthen fortresses, steeped in tradition as old as time itself. An eden of age-old customs, Xianyang’s Loess plateau shrugs off pretentious frills, choosing instead to spread before you an intimate mosaic of cultural richness.
Feel the yellow-brown loess, a whisper of millennia beneath your fingertips, sculpted into striking forms by the hands of nature and undeniable grit of humanity. These melancholy loam hills store tales untold, as intimate as a half whispered secret shared in the pre-dawn stillness.
Breathe in the calming symphony of cornfields swaying in the wind, accented by the harmonized symphony of goats and chickens scattered about the landscape. There’s something visceral about this agrarian pace of life; no glitz, no glamour, just the raw, unfiltered rhythm of existence.
Under the weather-beaten walls of these cave dwellings, you’ll meet the spirit of this resilient community. From sipping freshly brewed corn tea with the locals to witnessing the artisanal expertise of local craftsmen, you are invited to experience life as it was lived centuries ago. The lore of the land seamlessly woven into everyday actions – a poignant tribute to their ancestral lineage.
Dips and turns around the Loess plateau can bewitch even the most unyielding hearts. This unassuming slice of Xianyang, sprouting from an arid land, is a testament to the undying spirit of humanity’s survival, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking to capture the essence of profound Chinese civilizations laid bare in its primal glory. Here, cultural nuances aren’t hidden within the pages of dusty tomes; they live, breathe, and pulse to the beats of the village. The escapade at Xianyang’s Loess Folk Culture Village is an excursion into an ancient world, hiding in plain sight.
Address: China, Shaanxi, Xianyang, Qian County, 312国道 邮政编码: 713305
21. Unravel Lost Epochs at Chijian Wanshou Baxian Gong
The Chijian Wanshou Baxian Gong doesn’t just stand like a relic from another era, it is the very embodiment of an unsuspected epoch. Dwarfed by towering cypress trees, the temple is aging, yet immortal in a way only places steeped in history can claim. A walk through the flaking red gates reveals countless vibrant stone carvings, rendering eerily silent appreciation for Chinese ancestry; lions, phoenixes, gods… all baring their frozen souls to visitors with an inviting kind of solemnity.
You might imagine the spirits of aristocracy walking these once sacred halls, their silk robes skirting over ancient stone floors, their whispers echoing through the grandeur of antiquity, almost merging into the hum of survival emanating from the aged bricks. Gaze-up at the tower, clad in the rusted hues of time. Let the softened shades of green, yellow, and blue, evocative of another century, coax you into contemplation. Some places don’t surrender their secrets easily—they ask you to search for them. Here, the truth doesn’t lie at the surface, but in the subtleties of the architecture, in the grain of the weather-beaten stone, in the quiet gaze of auspicious stone beasts.
Every worn stair climbed, every dragon pillar caressed, is your tactile connection to a 3000-year-old history—moments etched in time that echo of an era when the sages lived and wisdom was cherished.
As you walk away, you carry a piece of this ethereal world with you, your mind steeped in lingering fragrances of incense and reverence. This isn’t just a historical site; it’s a procession of moments that will continue to emerge long after your feet have forgotten the tactile memory of the temple’s ancient pathways.
Address: 12 Beihuo Ln, Beilin, Xi’An, Shaanxi, China, 710033
22. Unearth Centuries of Stories at the Fortifications of Xi’an
Peel back the layers of time and immerse yourself in centuries’ old tales encapsuled within the ancient parapets of the grand Xi’an city walls. One of the most stirring, enduring symbols of Xi’an, these fortifications are a tangible testament to the imperial strength and wisdom that shaped the vast expanses of China. Their imposing stone façade carries the whispering echoes of the glorious era of the Tang dynasty and beyond, embodying an intoxicating cocktail of power, culture, and history.
Stroll upon their broad, resilient battlements, looking down at the bustling life below. Picture archers patrolling and scanning the horizon for signs of marauders. Can’t you just envision the fluttering red banners, the thundering drumbeat of marching soldiers?
These walls, an immense cocoon that held the city’s soul safe through the tumultuous ebbs and flows of dynasties, hold within their siege-resistant mass riveting tales spun out over eons. If only one listens attentively enough.
Embrace the beguiling blend of ancient and modern as you ascend the ramparts at dusk, witnessing the humdrum city life, now playing out in mellow shadows beneath. Ah, how romantic it is to contemplate the jade-hued willow trees tangoing with the early evening breeze while enjoying a fiery mandarin sunset from the fortification tower.
Every brick, each cobble in these enduring fortifications tells a compelling tale, of bloody battles fought, close-knit communities flourishing, and thriving commerce under the watchful protection of lookouts. So, put your most comfortable walking shoes on, my friend. In these ancient fortifications, you’ll find more than just a tourist attraction – you will unearth tales of resilience, transformation, and undying human spirit that echo through the millennia.
Address: Xincheng, Xi’An, China, 710003
23. Unraveling Inks of Time at the Forest of Stone Steles Museum
Within the embrace of a city as old as the ages, your traipse steps lightly onto the courtyard of scrolls etched not in paper, but solid, living rock. Welcome, intrepid wanderer, to the Forest of Stone Steles Museum: home to Xianyang’s ageless whispers.
First, imagine standing before gargantuan tablets, their ebony surfaces etched with Chinese characters. They stand like silent sentinels, guardians of millennia-old knowledge. Look closer, though. The shadows cast over each word bear the voice of emperors, philosophers, and poets long past. Their brushstrokes linger, symbiotic with the stone, across time as if ink and rock were aged scribes chronicling the epochs.
Within these corridors echoes a gestalt of historical meta-narratives from the vantage of the orient. Each stone stele bears the gravitas of China’s eternal narrative — a voice imbued with dynastic changes, philosophical shifts, and ceaseless echoes of poets lost to time. A visit here is akin to cracking open a time capsule, letting the swirling quills of ancient Chinese scholars envelop you, hum you a lullaby of yore.
As you tread delicately across the stone floor, dwarfed by the looming monoliths of ageless dialogues, the air seems punctuated with whispers of sagacious discourse, and crisp poems waft like incense. The weight of centuries may be heavy, but it’s a burden worth bearing if only to glimpse the soul of Xianyang through its thoughts carved in stone.
When you finally bid farewell to those stoic keepers of history, as the curator’s bells chime a fond zài jiàn, you’ll leave carrying impressions deeper than the crevices etched into the steles. This is not mere tourism—it’s a conversation with the past; it’s Xianyang, in silence and whispers, written on the heart of stones and the hearts of those who listen.
Address: 15 Sanxue St, Beilin, Xi’An, Shaanxi, China, 710001
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24. Unearth Ancient Whisperings at the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda
Nestled in the historic heart of Xianyang, the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda stands sentinel, an enduring testament to contemplative wonderment. Don’t be fooled by the distinct, pyramidical allure; this painstakingly-preserved Tang Dynasty edifice hides far more up its seven-tiered sleeve than mere architectural aesthetics.
Step into the serene cloisters. Can you sense it? The faint echoes of ancient chants, the whispers of history embedded in the cold, stone walls. Tread delicately past camphor-perfumed shadows while monks, clad in the saffron hues of dawn, meditate unseen. A sense of tranquility will envelop you, as centuries-old scrolls breathe revelations of cosmic wisdom from their sanctuary within.
Take a moment to appreciate the Pagoda’s intricacy; the ornate ceilings festooned with centuries’ worth of layered meanings, the bas-relief murals telling forgotten tales of a thousand Buddhas. But more important than the tangible, is the intangible — the stories that the Pagoda straddles within its towering frame.
Experience the ancient ritual of the setting sun tinging the Pagoda in twilight ambers. As dusk descends, the skies paint the silhouette of this cultural titan against the backdrop of twinkling constellations. It’s the palate of ancient China, unfurling like an ink-stroked scroll under a silver-cast moon.
You see, visiting the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda is no passive affair. It’s a communion with the past, a dalliance with the divine. It’s taking a quiet moment amid the echoes of stoic grandeur and forgotten moments to find a broader prospect of the world that once was — and perhaps, a deeper understanding of the world that is. A must for those seeking to truly ‘see’ Xianyang, rather than merely look at it.
Address: 1 Cien Rd, Yanta District, Xi’An, Shaanxi, China, 710064
25. Delving into Millennia at Xuanyuan Temple
In the nutrient-rich soils of Chinese culture lies Xuanyuan Temple, an unscaled mountain of history waiting for wanderers to traverse its grandeur. A throwback to the beginning of civilization, the temple honors the Yellow Emperor, Huangdi, a mythical figure said to have inaugurated much of the country’s ancient philosophies and way of life.
As you saunter through this majestic shrine, you’ll discover an intoxicating mingling of the old and the new. The temple whispers of the past through impressions left by incense-perfumed halls, and echoes reverberating off adorned walls speak of ages gone by. Gliding from the solemnity of the prayer halls to the austere vistas of the gardens, it’s like being in a languid dance with antiquity.
Graceful red lanterns punctuate the surrounding greenery, their flicker calling to mind forgotten hearts and minds who, across a gulf of time, conjured the world we know today. It seems as though the mists of the past are tangible, mingling with the present, bestowing this temple with the paradoxical serenity borne of continued relevance over centuries.
Be prepared to get lost, not just amidst towering stone lions and grand pavilions, but within the labyrinth of your thoughts. Your imaginations will twine around the unfathomable measure of human time that passes here every day and has done so for millennia. Xuanyuan Temple tells tales not only of emperors and divinities, but of humankind’s quest for understanding, meaning, and unending connection.
Bounding history and blazing heritage, the temple is a living echo of time—a profound invitation to step back and look upon the sprawl of human endeavor with fresh eyes. The result? A pilgrimage to the bedrock of cultural China, sweeping you into a fascinating world steeped in ritual, symbolism, and enduring wisdom.
Address: 82R5+9CR, Ouyasan Rd, Weiyang, Xi’An, Shaanxi, Chine, 710026
26. Dive into Dynasties: Xingqing Palace and the Taste of Timelessness
Ambling the hallowed grounds of the Xingqing Palace, temporal reality seems to dissolve like mist. Towering ancient ginkgo trees, their ancient leaves whispering tales of regal epochs, glisten in the ethereal light. The air rings with the faint stirrings of a bygone era, every pebble a time capsule harkening back to rich Tang Dynasty grandeur.
The sprawling majesty of the palace is a testament to its illustrious past, while its stately remnants echo with an overture of silent stories. Walking through its peerless pavilions, you can’t help but admire their architectural alchemy from an era where clay and wood transmuted to sublime expression. The lingering patina of history coats every timber, every stone, every statue, crafting a scenography that shuns the ephemeral.
The palace teems with layers of history, offering food for the mind, the soul, and the restless wanderer’s heart. These are not ruins you’ll find on your generalist’s check-list. This is a cultural masterstroke, a phoenix arisen from the ashes of centuries. One step into this expansive palatial garden and you can almost hear eunuchs and royalty speak through the flickering breeze. Picture the flurry of court proceedings, delicate scribes pens’ scratching on parchment, the soft strumming of pipa strings ushering tranquil notes into the crisp evening air.
Stroll through the same paths that once echoed with stomping cavalry and whispered imperial intrigues. Marvel at the seemingly frozen lakes that reflect centuries of changing skies, caressed by the cool winds, moaning with the weight of untold mystery. Xingqing Palace acts as the ephemeral bridge, connecting humanity’s fleeting presence to the indomitable march of time. As the proverb says, we’re all just boats against the current; here’s your chance to row backwards.
Address: 55 Xianning W Rd, Beilin, Xi’An, Shaanxi, China, 710049
27. Unearthing the Threads of Time at the Banpo Museum
Welcome to a hauntingly beautiful journey into the annals of civilization, that time itself has spun together. The Banpo Museum, the archeological gemstone seated in the heart of Xianyang, is a relic of a world past, showcasing the heritage of the Neolithic age eloquently. Herein, history has sunk its roots deep, clinging to the remnants of civilizations that whispered into existence over six millennia ago.
As you step through the entrance, you’re not just shifting through space; you’re traversing time, surrendering yourself to the hush of ages past. The museum hosts the compelling remnants of the Banpo Village — a preserved monument to the Banpo people, whose existence predates any written history. Tools, pottery, intricately carved artwork, the museum serves as a silent guide, speaking volumes of a primitive society’s story taking baby steps into civilization.
Stroll along, and the museum unfurls to reveal the strikingly haunting spectacle of human life’s cyclical progression. As you descend into the burial site, you witness a chilling testament to a forgotten ritual — the remains of prehistoric women, displayed in their eternal slumber.
The air here is laden with an indelible perfume of antiquity; it is a place where the echo of millennia old whispers rustle in the stale air, animating our ancient ancestry with a stark immediacy. The Banpo Museum is a grand tapestry, intricately woven with the threads of primitive human life, beckoning to those who understand that to explore the future, one must first unearth the past. This isn’t just another touristic interlude; it’s an immersive narrative etched into the annals of time, waiting to be retold, experienced, and cherished.
Address: 155 Banpo Rd, Baqiao District, Xi’An, Shaanxi, China, 710024
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28. Unearth the Zenith of Fitness at Shaanxi Guoyi Tianranju Fitness Cl.
In the heart of Xianyang, beyond the traditionally vibrant streets and bustling dumpling houses, hides a realm where body and spirit converge – the Shaanxi Guoyi Tianranju Fitness Cl. More than a fitness club, this sanctuary offers an integrated journey, weaving together modernity with ancient Chinese wellness traditions, capturing and reshaping the immemorial essence of fitness.
It’s an oasis adorned with state-of-the-art equipment, reflective of the city’s embrace of the 21st century. Yet, there’s a sacrosanct atmosphere here, one that imbues every corner with a sense of tranquillity resembling the ceramic tranquility found in the Terra Cotta Army’s silent ranks. You’re offered a pause from the city’s whirlwind, finding focus and equilibrium amid the frenetic pace.
Your sessions there are laced with an authentic air of cultural significance and personal transformation. The pulse of Chinese martial arts beats strongly here, juxtaposed with the rhythmic thump of jogging on a treadmill. And the spectacle of Tai Chi practitioners moving in fluid forms amplifies the place’s inherent harmony. It is as if the profound wellness philosophy of Emperor Qin Shi Huang himself has been encapsulated within this urban fitness hub.
This isn’t just a place where abs are sculpted or calories burned. It’s a testament to Xianyang’s story – an intersection where the city’s past and future meet, where disciplined routines converses with holistic well-being. The Shaanxi Guoyi Tianranju Fitness Cl. mirrors the transformative spirit of Xianyang itself, serving as a reminder that every journey – whether towards fitness, discovery, or enlightenment – starts with a single, determined step.
Address: 8QCW+6Q6, Qindu District, Xianyang, Shaanxi, China, 712044
29. Pedal Through Time: Unearth Serenity at Xi’an Wall Yongningmen (North Gate)
Step back into a dynasty long past and ascend the stone steps of Xi’an Wall Yongningmen, the North Gate. Here, on this ancient battle-worn citadel, the echoes of history whisper in the wind, a story of turmoil, triumph, and the rise and fall of a Chinese empire. The sprawling majesty of the fortification, curved and knotted like a century-old bonsai, is remarkable. But it’s when you complement your journey with the simple pleasure of a bicycle ride that the adventure truly begins.
Scores of cobblestone, warmed by the sun, align this towering fortification, stretching as far as the eye can see. The rental bikes — well-worn, brushed by countless hands of explorative souls — are your steed. As your wheels rattle rhythmically against the stone, the capital city’s vibrant energy evolves into an orchestral symphony of sights, sounds, and a consistent percussive rhythm beneath your two-wheeler. The city’s veined network unfolds like a calligraphic poem, seen best from this bird’s eye view.
Experience a tranquil warrior’s perspective, dreams of Yongningmen’s past soldiers seeping through your pores. Allow your eyes to wander over the terracotta roofs, intermingled with agile bamboo shooting skywards, framed by the receding haze of the ancient cityscape. Amidst the rush of the pedal-powered journey, pause. Absorb the profound peace, where time ceases, and you’re left, perched on the Wall, ensnared between epochs, soaking in the layered depths of history beneath a jade-tinted sky.
Xi’an Wall Yongningmen doesn’t merely house history in its granite bones—it invites you to engage with it, to feel your heartbeat align with the tales etched in its stone. A two-wheeled sojourn that brings you face-to-face with the vibrancy in serenity — this is not just history you read; it’s history you live.
Address: Cina, Shaanxi, Xi’An, Beilin, 钟楼商圈南门环岛 邮政编码: 710068
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