The DaMing Palace of the Tang dynasty 唐朝大明宫 – documentary

The DaMing Palace, 'Palace of Great Brilliance', was the imperial palace complex of the Tang dynasty (618 - 907 AD), located in its capital Chang'An.

This palace served as the residence of the Tang emperors for more than 220 years. Today, it is designated as a National Heritage Site. The area of the remains is located northeast of Xi'An, ShaanXi province.

[640],shadow=true,start=,stop=

Xi'an, located in the heart of Shaanxi Province in northwest China, is one of the oldest cities in China and served as the capital for numerous dynasties, including the Qin, Han, and Tang. Renowned for its rich history, cultural heritage, and iconic landmarks, Xi'an is a must-visit destination for tourists. Here's a guide for tourists visiting Xi'an:

Historical and Cultural Significance:
Ancient Capital: Xi'an served as the capital of China for over 13 dynasties and played a crucial role in shaping Chinese history and civilization. It was the starting point of the ancient Silk Road, facilitating trade and cultural exchange between China and the West.

Terracotta Army: One of Xi'an's most famous attractions is the Terracotta Army, a vast collection of life-sized terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China. Discovered in 1974, the Terracotta Army is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of China's rich cultural heritage.

Top Attractions:
Terracotta Army Museum: Located about 30 kilometers east of Xi'an, the Terracotta Army Museum is home to thousands of intricately crafted terracotta warriors, horses, and chariots. Visitors can explore the excavation pits, marvel at the craftsmanship, and learn about the history of the Qin Dynasty.

Ancient City Wall: Xi'an is renowned for its well-preserved ancient city wall, which dates back to the Ming Dynasty. Stretching over 13 kilometers in length, the wall offers panoramic views of the city and is a popular spot for walking, cycling, and sightseeing.

Muslim Quarter: Explore the vibrant Muslim Quarter, located near the Drum Tower and Great Mosque of Xi'an. This bustling neighborhood is known for its lively street markets, traditional Islamic architecture, and delicious street food, including lamb skewers, roujiamo (Chinese hamburger), and hand-pulled noodles.

Big Wild Goose Pagoda: Built during the Tang Dynasty, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda is a prominent Buddhist landmark in Xi'an. Visitors can climb the pagoda for panoramic views of the city or explore the surrounding temple complex and gardens.

Shaanxi History Museum: Discover the rich history and culture of Shaanxi Province at the Shaanxi History Museum. The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts, including ancient pottery, bronze ware, jade, and Tang Dynasty murals, providing insights into the region's heritage.

Practical Tips:
Transportation: Getting around Xi'an is convenient with its extensive public transportation system, including buses, taxis, and the Xi'an Metro. Bicycle rentals are also available for exploring the city at a leisurely pace.

Weather: Xi'an has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. The best time to visit is during spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and comfortable.

Language: Mandarin Chinese is the official language spoken in Xi'an, although English may not be widely spoken, especially in more remote areas. It's helpful to learn some basic phrases or carry a phrasebook or translation app.

Currency: The currency used in China is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). Credit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and shops in urban areas, but it's advisable to carry cash for small purchases and transactions.

Xi'an offers a fascinating blend of ancient history, cultural heritage, and modern urban life, making it an enchanting destination for tourists seeking to explore the wonders of ancient China. Whether marveling at the Terracotta Army, walking along the ancient city wall, or sampling delicious street food in the Muslim Quarter, Xi'an has something to offer for every traveler.

ShaanXi map

Featured Videos

The classical gardens of SuZhou 苏州

JiangSu province. An introduction to the art of Chinese gardens.

Scenes from the Harbin 哈尔滨 Snow and Ice Festival

Runs to the end of February, weather permitting.

The beautiful NanXun ancient water town, ZheJiang province

With Beautiful China ... Nanxun Ancient Water Town Visitor Guide Introduction Nestled in the heart of Zhejiang Province, Nanxun Ancient Water Town is a hidden gem among China's water towns. Known for its well-preserved architecture, serene canals, and rich cultural heritage, Nanxun offers a glimpse into the past with a blend of Chinese and Western influences. This guide will provide you with everything you need to explore Nanxun's historic streets, discover its cultural treasures, and enjoy its tranquil beauty. Key Attractions 1. Xiaolian Manor (Little Lotus Garden) Built during the late Qing Dynasty, Xiaolian Manor is one of Nanxun's most famous landmarks. This classical Chinese garden features a picturesque pond, rockeries, pavilions, and beautifully landscaped gardens. The manor was the private residence of a wealthy silk merchant and offers a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the past. 2. Jiayetang Library Jiayetang Library, founded by a wealthy silk merchant named Liu Chenggan, is one of China's oldest private libraries. The library's collection includes ancient manuscripts, rare books, and classic Chinese literature. The architecture is a blend of traditional Chinese and Western styles, reflecting the cultural exchange that characterized Nanxun's history. 3. Zhang Shiming Mansion The Zhang Shiming Mansion is an exquisite example of traditional Chinese residential architecture with Western influences. The mansion's intricate wood carvings, stained glass windows, and spacious courtyards provide a fascinating insight into the lives of Nanxun's wealthy elite during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. 4. Guanghui Palace (Guanghui Taoist Temple) Guanghui Palace is one of the oldest buildings in Nanxun, dating back to the Northern Song Dynasty. This Taoist temple is dedicated to the worship of the Taoist deity Xuanwu. Visitors can admire the temple's ancient architecture, Taoist sculptures, and serene atmosphere. Cultural Activities Nanxun is not only about its historical architecture but also about the cultural experiences that bring the town to life. Here are some activities to immerse yourself in the local culture: Boat Rides on the Canals: Experience the charm of Nanxun from the water by taking a leisurely boat ride along its tranquil canals. The boat rides offer a unique perspective of the ancient bridges, white-washed houses, and overhanging willow trees. Silk Weaving Demonstrations: Nanxun has a long history of silk production. Visit one of the local silk weaving workshops to see traditional techniques in action and learn about the town's silk-making heritage. Tea Tasting: Enjoy a traditional Chinese tea ceremony at one of the local teahouses. Savor the flavors of locally grown green teas while relaxing by the water's edge. Calligraphy and Painting Workshops: Join a workshop to learn the art of Chinese calligraphy and painting. These hands-on experiences offer insight into traditional Chinese arts and crafts. Dining Options Nanxun offers a variety of dining options, from local eateries serving traditional Chinese dishes to charming cafes. Here are some recommendations: Local Dishes: Try the famous Nanxun braised pork, lotus root soup, and other local delicacies at traditional restaurants like Nongfu Restaurant and Nanxun Old Town Cuisine. Waterfront Cafés: Enjoy a relaxing meal or a cup of coffee at one of the quaint waterfront cafés, where you can take in the scenic views of the canals and historic buildings. Street Food: Explore the narrow streets and alleys to find street vendors selling snacks like rice dumplings, tofu pudding, and steamed buns. These local treats are perfect for a quick bite. Teahouses: Visit traditional teahouses like Wangfu Teahouse for an authentic tea-drinking experience. Pair your tea with local pastries and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Practical Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) are the best times to visit Nanxun, when the weather is mild, and the scenery is beautiful. Getting There: Nanxun is located about 120 kilometers from Shanghai and 80 kilometers from Hangzhou. It can be reached by bus or car. Regular buses run from Shanghai and Hangzhou to Nanxun. What to Wear: Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as you will be exploring cobbled streets and bridges. Bring a hat and sunscreen for sunny days, and a light jacket for cooler evenings. Language: Mandarin is the primary language spoken in Nanxun. Learning a few basic phrases or using a translation app can be helpful. Entrance Fees: Some attractions in Nanxun, such as Xiaolian Manor and Zhang Shiming Mansion, may have an entrance fee. It's a good idea to carry some cash, as not all places accept credit cards. Respect Local Culture: Nanxun is a place of historical and cultural significance. Be respectful of local customs, especially when visiting temples and historical sites. Taking photos inside temples may be prohibited.