In centuries past, present-day Xian was capital to 11 dynasties over a period of 4,000 years, and known by a variety of names: among them Chang'an and Xianyang, all of which soon became synonymous with wealth and power. By any name, however, Xian in its heyday was a magnificent, cosmopolitan city that boasted a thriving arts scene, bustling trade, and myriad pleasures; as the Tang capital of Chang'an, Xian was the most populated city in the world, and served as the inspiration for, among others, the Japanese cities of Kyoto and Nara. Today, while Xian's glory days are over, it remains a key tourist destination, with a range of well-preserved, fascinating sights, from the world-renowned terracotta soldiers to imposing city walls of Xian.
China Regions
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Southeastern
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Yunnan