Xi'an Exploration: Bell Tower, Drum Tower & City Wall

XI'AN CHINA is NOT what we expected - Bell Tower, Drum Tower, Wild Goose Pagoda and City Wall

Destination:ChinaCity:XiAnPopulation:13 million
XI'AN CHINA is NOT what we expected - Bell Tower, Drum Tower, Wild Goose Pagoda and City Wall
travelshorts2024-08-0332 min

We spend the day exploring Xi'an, the ancient capital of China, join us as we visit the Bell Tower, Drum Tower, City Walls and walk around this amazing Chinese City.

We start the day off at our hotel, before we go for a walk around this beautiful city.

We start at the Xian Bell Tower and what a fascinating attraction it is. The Xi'an Bell Tower, is a traditional building, that marks the geographical centre of the ancient capital. From this important landmark extend East, South, West and North Streets, connecting the tower to the East, South, West and North Gates of the City Wall of the Ming Dynasty.

The wooden tower, which is the largest and best-preserved of its kind in China, is 36 meters (118 feet) high. It stands on a brick base 35.5 meters (116.4 feet) long and 8.6 meters (28.2 feet) high on each side.

We then walk over to the Xi'an Drum Tower another very impressive building in the centre of Xi'an. It was initially built in 1380 during the reign of Emperor Hongwu of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), and was renovated twice in 1699 and 1740 in the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). It is a two-storied post and panel structure, 34 meters (about 112 feet) high and 52.6 meters (about 172 feet) long from east to west as well as 38 meters (about 124 feet) wide from north to south.

We go for lunch in a local shopping mall and have a buffet, not very traditional I know but it keeps us all happy.

Then we catch the subway to the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda. The Giant Wild Goose Pagoda (also called Big Wild Goose Pagoda) is a well-preserved ancient building and a holy place for Buddhists. It is located in the southern suburb of Xi'an City, about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) from the downtown of the city.

Unfortunately it is closed as it is after 5pm so we get a Dairy Queen and catch the subway back to the Xi'an City Wall.

Xi'an City Wall, also known as the Fortifications of Xi'an, is the most complete city wall that has survived in China, as...

--- travelshorts
August 3, 2024, Summer in China

Video Chapters

  1. 0:20China trip day 7 begins
  2. 0:36Arrival at Bell Tower
  3. 1:20Bell Tower ticket details
  4. 7:13Lunch at shopping mall
  5. 10:24Drum Tower exploration
  6. 13:52Travel to Wild Goose Pagoda
  7. 17:56Pagoda closed, disappointment
  8. 19:27Visit to City Wall
  9. 22:42Arrival at City Wall
  10. 28:35Preparing for Shanghai train

Travelshorts explores Xi'an's ancient wonders: Bell Tower, Drum Tower, and City Wall. A family adventure filled with cultural discoveries and unexpected detours, leaving a lasting impression.

Travel Guides & Tips in this video

  1. Tip 1To reach the Bell Tower, use the underground passage to avoid heavy traffic. It's accessible near subway Exit 7, but slightly to the left. (0:50)
  2. Tip 2Purchase combo tickets for the Drum and Bell Towers for cost savings. The self-service machines might require assistance if you don't read Chinese. (1:20)
  3. Tip 3Use the Xi'an Metro system (lines 6 and 4) to efficiently travel between attractions. The self-service ticket machines are user-friendly, accepting Alipay for payment. (14:14)
  4. Tip 4The Xi'an City Wall is accessible via the South Gate. Purchase tickets at the entrance. Note that bike rentals require a minimum age of 12. (22:42)
  5. Tip 5Download a free PDF guide (link in the video description) for details on the family's China trip, including accommodation, attractions, and tips for using VPNs and e-SIMs. (27:18)

Travelshorts' family embarked on an unexpected adventure in Xi'an, China. Their journey took them through iconic landmarks like the Bell Tower and Drum Tower, revealing the intricate architecture and rich history. A delightful lunch in a local mall provided a modern contrast, before a slightly disappointing, yet understandable, closure of the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda. The Xi'an City Wall offered a breathtaking evening stroll, culminating in a journey to Shanghai by sleeper train. This video captures the essence of Xi'an's charm, blending historical exploration with unexpected moments, creating a memorable travel experience.

More about the current video:( 3 / 12 )

XI'AN CHINA is NOT what we expected - Bell Tower, Drum Tower, Wild Goose Pagoda and City Wall

This captivating travelogue follows Travelshorts' family adventure in Xi'an, China, offering a unique blend of historical exploration and unexpected encounters. Their journey begins at the Xi'an Bell Tower, a marvel of ancient architecture, where they marvel at the intricate timber construction devoid of nails or screws. They navigate the bustling underground passages, a clever solution to the city's chaotic traffic. Next, they visit the Drum Tower, equally impressive in its size and historical significance, noting the similar architectural style and craftsmanship. Lunch is a surprisingly diverse buffet in a local shopping mall, a delightful break from the cultural immersion. Their afternoon takes them to the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, but unfortunately, their visit is cut short due to its early closing time. Undeterred, they head to the Xi'an City Wall, walking a section of its impressive length and enjoying the illuminated views. The video concludes with Travelshorts' family preparing for their overnight sleeper train to Shanghai, reflecting on their time in Xi'an and sharing their experiences. This journey is not just about sightseeing; it's about embracing unexpected moments, savoring local experiences, and capturing the authentic essence of Xi'an. The family's personal insights and emotional responses throughout the journey add a layer of depth and authenticity to the narrative, making it more engaging and relatable. The video also highlights the practicality of using the subway system in Xi'an and the ease of using Alipay for ticket purchases, adding valuable travel tips for viewers. The unexpected challenges encountered, such as the difficulty in hailing a taxi, add a realistic touch to the adventure. Overall, the video provides a well-rounded view of Xi'an, blending historical significance with modern-day experiences, creating a memorable and informative travel story.

The video's unique details, such as the underground passages to the towers and the unexpected sounds of "It's a Small World" in Xi'an, add a layer of charm and surprise. The personal interactions, like the assistance received at the ticket office, and the family's reactions to the food and sights, create an engaging and emotional connection with the viewers. The vivid descriptions of the architecture, the bustling city life, and the family's experiences bring Xi'an to life, inviting viewers to embark on their own adventure.

The video's conversational tone, combined with informative details about the attractions and travel logistics, makes it both entertaining and educational. The use of storytelling elements, such as the family's reactions to the sights and sounds, adds a personal touch that makes the content stand out. The inclusion of unexpected discoveries, like the closed pagoda, adds a touch of realism and relatable frustration, making the narrative more engaging. The video successfully captures the essence of a family's journey through Xi'an, providing a glimpse into its historical richness and modern vibrancy, leaving viewers with a desire to explore this ancient city for themselves.

Xi'an Exploration: Bell Tower, Drum Tower & City Wall

We spend the day exploring Xi'an, the ancient capital of China, join us as we visit the Bell Tower, Drum Tower, City Walls and walk around this amazing Chinese City. We start the day off at our hotel, the Holiday Inn Express Xi'an Bell Tower before we go for a walk around this beautiful city. We...

Xi'an Exploration: Bell Tower, Drum Tower, City Wall

Explore Xi'an, China's ancient capital! This captivating journey begins at the Holiday Inn Express Xi'an Bell Tower, before venturing into the heart of the city. Marvel at the Xi'an Bell Tower, a geographical centerpiece extending to the city's four gates. Ascend the impressive wooden structure, the largest and best-preserved of its kind in China. Next, witness the grandeur of the Xi'an Drum Tower, initially built in 1380 and renovated throughout history. Enjoy a local lunch before heading to the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, a significant Buddhist site. Although closed upon arrival, the experience culminates with a stroll along the Xi'an City Wall, one of China's most well-preserved ancient fortifications.

Attractions in this video: Bell Tower, Drum Tower, Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, Xian City Wall