Experiencing Different Cultures: Columbia SIPA’s Immersive Journey to China (Part 2)
Last we left off, we had spent the last few days in Beijing exploring places like Tiananmen Square, the Great Wall of China and Tsinghua University.
Day 5: Journey to Xi’an and Encountering the Ancient Terracotta Army
From Beijing, we kicked off the next leg of our journey to Xi’an, a city bursting with history and culture. We hopped on the early morning bullet train at 7:55 AM, amazed at how the futuristic train, speeding at 300-321 km/h, turned the 1,200-kilometer journey into a quick 4.5-hour ride. The efficiency of the bullet train was truly remarkable, with stops in major city stations lasting only four minutes, making the entire system incredibly streamlined. Arriving in Xi’an just before noon, we dropped our bags at the hotel, grabbed lunch, and immediately noticed how different the food in Xi’an is compared to Beijing. The flavors here are punchier, with a distinct focus on sour and spicy notes, giving us a whole new culinary adventure. Refreshed and excited, we headed to explore the legendary Terracotta Army.
The anticipation was electric as we approached this 2,000-year-old site, a testament to Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s incredible legacy. The Terracotta Army Museum features three main pits open to the public, each offering a glimpse into ancient China’s grandeur. The largest, Pit 1, showcases thousands of life-sized warriors and horses in battle formation, while Pit 2 displays archers, cavalry, and infantry, each figure uniquely crafted with intricate details. Pit 3, the command center, reveals the strategic brilliance behind the emperor’s forces. However, these three pits are only part of the full discovery. There are additional pits still under excavation, rumored to contain even more treasures and artifacts from the emperor’s reign, which remain securely hidden for preservation. Standing before these meticulously sculpted soldiers, each with distinct facial expressions and armor, we felt transported back in time, awed by the sheer scale and craftsmanship of this historical masterpiece.
As night fell, we dived deeper into Xi’an’s rich culture by dressing in traditional Chinese outfits and wandering through the lively streets of the city’s famous Chinatown. The bustling atmosphere was filled with glowing lights, cheerful chatter, and the tantalizing aroma of street food. We couldn’t resist trying old-fashioned hawthorn candies, a sweet and tangy treat that wrapped up a day full of history, culture, and discovery on a perfect note.
Day 6: Cultural Immersion and the Vibrant Spirit of Xi’an
The next day, our adventure continued with a visit to Xi’an International University, where we immersed ourselves in traditional Chinese culture. We started by learning the delicate art of brewing authentic Chinese tea, a practice rooted in harmony and tradition. Next, we tried our hand at Chinese calligraphy, crafting elegant strokes that combined language and artistry. A quick lesson in basic kungfu techniques gave us a taste of the strength and fluidity behind this ancient martial art. We also tried playing a traditional Chinese musical instrument and were treated to a breathtaking performance by the university’s student music group. Their rendition of an old Chinese tune was captivating, blending history and passion beautifully.
In the afternoon, we checked out a unique museum showcasing vibrant artworks created by farmers. Their drawings offered a touching glimpse into rural life, and we joined in the fun by painting canvases with our own Chinese zodiac signs. Later, we explored the Xi’an City Wall, one of the best-preserved ancient defenses in China. Walking along the towering walls, once used to guard against invaders, gave us a deep sense of connection to the past. We wrapped up the day at the bustling Xi’an Muslim Quarter, meeting members of the vibrant local Muslim community, savoring delicious street food, and picking up plenty of unique souvenirs. These two days in Xi’an, filled with historical exploration, cultural experiences, and lively local vibes, were an unforgettable highlight of our journey.
Reflection on Xi’an
Xi’an stands out as a city where ancient history and vibrant modern culture coexist seamlessly. The preserved Terracotta Army and the ancient city wall serve as reminders of its imperial past, while the thriving Muslim Quarter and bustling ancient city town highlight its cultural diversity. The experiences in Xi’an left us with a profound appreciation for how the city embraces its history while staying dynamic and lively. It’s a place where every corner tells a story, and every meal or interaction is an invitation to connect with a rich and evolving heritage. Xi’an is not just a destination; it’s an immersive journey through time, culture, and community.