Xian (pronounced shee-on) is the largest city in northwest China. As one of China's seven ancient national capitals, it was the capital of 12 dynasties for more than a thousand years. Xian is also the starting poing of the Silk Road, the main trade route between China, Central Asia, and Europe. The highlight of a visit to Xian is a visit to the burial site of China's first emperor, Qin Shihuang, who unified the country and completed construction of the Great Wall more than 2200 years ago. The archaelogical site displays the lifelike army of terra-cotta figures that guard his tomb. Lined up in long, straight rows, more that 8000 life-size terra-cotta warriors, horses, and war carrieges were discovered in the 1970's, buried deed underground. What is so amazing is that no two faces are alike; each soldier and horse is individually crafted to amazingly life like proportions.

Another important sight in Xian is the Banpo Museum. The Banpo people settled in this area of China about 6000 years ago. A neolithic village was uncovered in the area of Xian in 1953 and consists of a residential area, potterymaking zone with many artifacts, and a burial ground. Other sight in Xian include the Bell Tower built during Ming Dynasty, and an excursion to Hua Qing Hot Springs, a favorite resort retrear for emperors located 35 miles outside of the city.