Our adventure in Xi'an with my lively 3-year-old daughter, Loreva, was nothing short of magical. From the moment we stepped off the plane, I could tell this trip would be unforgettable. Armed with a stroller, a backpack filled with snacks, and a heart full of excitement, we embarked on our journey to explore the ancient wonders of this city.
Our first stop was the iconic Terracotta Army. As we entered the excavation site, Loreva's eyes widened in amazement at the life-sized clay soldiers standing in formation. I explained to her how these warriors were crafted over two thousand years ago to protect the Emperor in the afterlife. She couldn't quite grasp the concept of eternity, but the sheer scale of the army left her in awe.
We joined a guided tour where Loreva's little voice echoed with questions. Mr. Li, our guide, was incredibly patient, answering each one with a smile. Loreva learned about Emperor Qin Shi Huang, who had united China and commissioned this incredible army. It was like a history lesson wrapped in fun stories and fascinating facts.
As we explored Xi'an's ancient city wall, we rented a bicycle with a baby seat, and Loreva squealed with delight as we pedaled along the massive structure. From the top of the wall, we marveled at the city's blend of old and new—a striking contrast between ancient history and modern life.
Xi'an's Muslim Quarter was another highlight, a bustling maze of narrow streets filled with fragrant food stalls and vibrant markets. Loreva's eyes lit up as we sampled local delicacies like lamb skewers and hand-pulled noodles. We even tried our hand at haggling, and Loreva's negotiation skills were as adorable as they were ineffective.
But it wasn't just the sights and flavors that left a lasting impression. It was the people we met along the way—the friendly locals who offered Loreva candy ( not knowing she does not like any candy :) ) and smiled at her curious questions. Language barriers were no match for Loreva's universal charm.
Random Xi'an Highlights
At the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda.
One of Xian’s oldest structures, it was built in 652 and originally had 10 levels, though the top three were later lost in an earthquake.
The pagoda played an important role in the spread of Buddhism in China. Relics, figurines and writings associated with the Buddha were brought here from India along the Silk Road which ends in Xian.
At the Xi'an city wall. Xian City Wall is the most complete city wall that has survived in China, as well being one of the largest ancient military most complete city wall that has survived in China, as well being one of the largest ancient military city wall that has survived in China, as well being one of the largest ancient military defensive systems in the world.
Me overlooking the city and below with mum at one of the entrance.
With mum at the Xi'an city wall. Xi’an has one of the most extensive and best-preserved defensive walls in the world. This colossal structure was started under the Ming Dynasty in 1370, a few years before the Drum and Bell Towers. You can either cycle or walk along the Ancient City Wall, which is almost 14 kilometers long and takes around three hours at a leisurely pace
Xian's Drum Tower (Gulou) is set across from the equally ancient Bell Tower in the heart of the Old City. It is located in a lively square filled with various shops, eateries, and other attractions.The Drum Tower is in the center of Xian, a short walk from the Bell Tower.
The Drum Tower is located northwest of the Bell Tower of Xian, across the Bell and Drum Tower Square. Both of them are called the 'sister buildings' or 'morning bell and dark drum'. In ancient China, especially from the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368), the drums were used to signal the running of time and on occasion were used as an alarm in emergency situations.
At the Muslim quarter market in Xi'an. In Chinese, it is also known as Huimin Jie, which is the home of the majority of the Muslim Hui minority.Once, Muslim traders traveling the Silk Road settled here with their Chinese wives, had children and formed a tight-knit community which still lives on. If you like oriental markets, you will find tea shops, potteries, produce and much else in this haggling-paradise along the Beiyuanmen Muslim Market.
The trip wasn't without its challenges, of course. Naptime meltdowns in the middle of a bustling market, spaghetti-like noodle mishaps, and stroller traffic jams were all part of the adventure. But those moments became our stories, etching laughter and patience into our travel memories.
As we boarded our plane back home, I looked at Loreva, who was fast asleep in my arms. I realized that this trip wasn't just about seeing ancient wonders; it was about creating memories, nurturing curiosity, and teaching my daughter that the world is a big, beautiful place waiting to be explored.
In Xi'an, Loreva and I learned that history can be fascinating, strangers can become friends, and every journey, no matter how small, is a chance to grow together. Our adventure had been filled with laughter, learning, and love—a testament to the incredible bond forged between a mother and her inquisitive 3-year-old explorer.
Have you traveled to Xi'an or planning to anytime soon? Tell us about it below!
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