Intriguing trip to Xi'an, China

My tour of Xi'an, China on 19-24 September 2013 strengthened my desire to travel the Silk Road. I hope I can do it next year. Xi'an is an intriguing place, rich with history of Chinese Emperors, wars, culture and romance. Above all I am fascinated with the history of the spread of Islam in China and the Silk Road is being traced and introduced again by the government for the benefit of tourists.

One of the complexes at Tang West Market.

At the many wall arches found at Tang West Market.

My visit to Tang West Market dazzled me even more of the unique history of silk trade. The hooked roofs signified Tang architecture. The complex is huge and there was so much to see. The open market on Sunday exhibits antique Chinese artifacts that fascinated me.

Busy street at Muslim Street in Xi'an

Ellie and having sumptuous lunch at a Muslim restaurant at Muslim Street.

The Muslim Street fascinated me even more. All the shops are run by Muslims and the restaurant food we went for lunch for, was unbelievable. I felt comfortable knowing I was eating halal food. The three of us were shocked at first to see the generous amount of servings. We believed we couldn't finish them but the dishes were so delicious that we cleaned the plates in the end.

At Pit 1 - the Terra Cotta Warriors ready for war

Life size Terra Cotta Warriors

May, the local guide, is so knowledgeable about Xi'an history that it was quite difficult to remember and digest all the information narrated by her but it was most helpful. The Terra Cotta Warriors Museum is simply awesome. It's a significant archeological finding of the century. Life size Terra Cotta Warriors were built in details, lined in rows  ready for wars. Huge numbers of tourists made it difficult to take photos. It was a big complex and my legs and flat feet were beginning to feel the pressure.

A part of the Great Mosque complex seen as we entered the compound of the mosque.

One of the many archers engraved with Quranic verses at the Great Mosque.

The Great Mosque of Xi'an is spectacular with old Chinese architecture blended with Islamic architecture, built during Tang Dynasty when Islam was introduced to China by the Arab and Afghanistan traders. We did our Jama' prayer there at the mosque courtyard as the prayer Hall is still used for Friday prayer. There were many arches built in Tang style engraved with verses from the Quran.
This was an enjoyable trip. There were only 3 of us and Izan of Dhia Holidays had arranged our itinerary well though there were some glitches about our return tickets.
Alhamdullilah we arrived Malaysia safe and on time, inspite of the many challenges we faced with Northern China Airlines.
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