Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Historical accounts describe it as containing palaces filled with precious
stones, underground rivers of flowing mercury and ingenious defences against
intruders. The tomb reputedly took 38 years to complete, and required a work-
force of 700,000 people. It is said that the artisans who built it were buried
alive within, taking its secrets with them.
Archaeologists have yet to enter the tomb but probes and sensors have
been sent inside. Levels of mercury inside exceed 100 times the normal occur-
ring rate, which seems to substantiate some of the legends. Since little has
been excavated there isn't much to see but you can climb the steps to the top
of the mound for a fine view of the surrounding countryside. The tomb is about
2km west of the Army of Terracotta Warriors. Take bus 306 from Xi'an train
station.
BANPO NEOLITHIC VILLAGE
( Banpo Bowuguan; admission Mar-Nov ¥65, Dec-Feb ¥45; 8am-6pm)
This
village is of enormous importance for Chinese archaeological studies, but un-
less you're desperately interested in the subject it can be an underwhelming
visitor experience.
Banpo is the earliest example of the neolithic Yangshao culture, which is be-
lieved to have been matriarchal. It appears to have been occupied from 4500
BC until around 3750 BC.
The village is in the eastern suburbs of Xi'an. Bus 105 (¥1) from the train
station runs past (ask where to get off); it's also often included on tours.
Historic Site
North & West of Xi'an
TOMB OF EMPEROR JINGDI
( Han Yangling; admission Mar-Nov ¥90, Dec-Feb ¥65; 8.30am-7pm Mar-
Nov, to 6pm Dec-Feb)
This tomb (also referred to as the Han Jing Mausoleum,
Liu Qi Mausoleum and Yangling Mausoleum) is easily Xi'an's most underrated
highlight. If you only have time for two sights, then it should be the Army of
Terracotta Warriors and this impressive museum and tomb.
Historic Site
