Is this walking route in Xi'an difficult?

No, it is considered an easy walk. The terrain is flat throughout the Xincheng District, and most of the route follows well-maintained city sidewalks and park paths.

What is the best time to visit Xincheng Square?

Early morning is best to see locals practicing Tai Chi, or late afternoon to enjoy the square as the sun sets behind the government buildings.

Can I enter the Shaanxi Provincial Government Office?

Generally, no. As an active government facility, the interior is not open to the public, but the exterior architecture can be viewed from New City Plaza.

Is the Xi'an Shibian Memorial Hall worth visiting?

Yes, it is essential for anyone interested in 20th-century history. The site provides deep context on the Xi'an Incident, which was a major catalyst for the Second United Front in China.

Are there restrooms along this self-guided walk?

Yes, there are well-maintained public toilets at New City Plaza and inside Changle Park. Most major museums like the Memorial Hall also have facilities.

What should I wear for this neighborhood stroll?

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. As you will be visiting historical sites and public squares, modest casual dress is appropriate.

How do I get back to the Bell Tower from the end of the walk?

From the final stop at W Xi'an, the easiest way is to take Metro Line 4 from Qujiangchixi Station and transfer to Line 2 at Dayanta (Giant Wild Goose Pagoda) station.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Step into the layers of Xi'an's past on this self-guided walk through the Xincheng District, a neighborhood where Ming Dynasty royalty once lived and where the course of modern Chinese history was forever altered. This walking route explores the architectural transition from imperial mansions to revolutionary headquarters, offering a unique perspective on a city often known only for its Terracotta Warriors. You will begin at the remnants of the Mingqin Mansion, once the seat of the Prince of Qin, before moving through the grand New City Plaza, which serves as the political heart of Shaanxi Province. The journey continues into the early 20th century at the Xi'an Shibian Memorial Hall, the former residence of General Zhang Xueliang. This site is pivotal for understanding the Xi'an Incident of 1936, a moment of high-stakes diplomacy and military drama that shaped the nation. As you explore independently, you will notice how the architecture shifts from the heavy, traditional styles of the imperial era to the Soviet-influenced designs of the mid-20th century and finally to the bold, contemporary aesthetics of modern Xi'an. This neighborhood stroll is perfect for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts who want to see how a city evolves through centuries of political change. Unlike a standard walking tour Xian often provides, this route allows you to linger at the memorial halls and public squares at your own pace, soaking in the atmosphere of a district that remains the nerve center of the region. From the quiet gardens of Changle Park to the futuristic skyline surrounding the final stop, this travel experience captures the true spirit of Xi'an's continuous transformation.

Highlights

Discover the hidden Ming Dynasty Mansion wall relics

Walk through New City Plaza, the political heart of Shaanxi

Visit the site of the 1936 Xi'an Incident at the Memorial Hall

See the blend of Soviet-style and traditional Chinese architecture

Relax in the green expanse of Changle Park

Witness the modern face of Xi'an's architectural boom

Tour Stops (6)

Mingqin Mansion City Wall Relic Site

Welcome to the starting point of your self-guided walk. You are standing before the remnants of the Mingqin Mansion wall. In the early Ming Dynasty, the First Emperor's second son, Zhu Shuang, was named the Prince of Qin and established his residence here. This wasn't just a house; it was a 'city within a city,' protected by these very walls. While the grand palaces are gone, these earthen and brick relics serve as a silent reminder of the city's royal hierarchy. Look closely at the layers of the wall; they represent centuries of fortification and the strategic importance of Xi'an as a regional stronghold during the Ming era.

Shaanxi Provincial Government Office

As you move toward the administrative center, you'll encounter the Shaanxi Provincial Government Office. This site has been a center of power for centuries, built directly over the foundations of the Ming Prince's palace. The current architecture is a fascinating example of mid-20th-century design, featuring traditional Chinese rooflines blended with the functional symmetry often seen in Soviet-influenced administrative buildings. It remains an active government site today, symbolizing the continuity of Xi'an as a provincial capital. Observe the grand entrance and the way the building commands the northern end of the square, projecting authority and stability.

New City Plaza (Xincheng Square)

New City Plaza, or Xincheng Square, is the public heartbeat of the district. Originally the courtyard of the Ming Palace, it was transformed into a modern public square in the early 20th century. This space has hosted massive political rallies, cultural celebrations, and daily exercises for generations of Xi'an residents. It is a perfect spot to observe local life. Notice the vast openness of the square, designed to accommodate thousands, and the surrounding buildings that reflect the city's 20th-century modernization efforts. On many mornings, you can see locals practicing Tai Chi or flying kites, reclaiming this once-royal ground for the public.

Xi'an Shibian Memorial Hall

This stop takes you to the former residence of General Zhang Xueliang, now the Xi'an Shibian Memorial Hall. This western-style villa was the site of the 1936 Xi'an Incident, a turning point in Chinese history. It was here that Zhang Xueliang and Yang Hucheng detained Chiang Kai-shek to force a united front against foreign invasion. The architecture here is distinctively 'Republican era,' with brickwork and balconies that feel worlds away from the Ming relics you saw earlier. Inside, the rooms are preserved to reflect the tense days of the negotiations that changed the fate of the nation.

Changle Park

Continuing east, you reach Changle Park. Originally part of a military and industrial zone, this area was converted into a public park to provide green space for the growing urban population. It offers a peaceful contrast to the political weight of the previous stops. The park is a masterclass in urban repurposing, featuring winding paths, small lakes, and dense groves of trees. It's a favorite among local families and seniors. As you wander, notice how the park serves as a 'green lung' for the Xincheng District, bridging the gap between the historic center and the expanding residential areas to the east.

W Xi'an

Your walk concludes at the striking W Xi'an. This building represents the cutting edge of the city's modern architectural identity. Located in the Qujiang New District, which is a short transit ride from the historic center, the hotel's design is inspired by the vibrant energy of the Tang Dynasty but executed with futuristic materials and bold curves. It stands as a symbol of 'New Xi'an'—a city that respects its ancient roots while racing toward the future. The surrounding area is filled with contemporary art installations and neon lights, providing a dramatic visual finale to your journey through the city's architectural timeline.

Frequently Asked Questions

The full route takes approximately 90 to 120 minutes. This includes time to stop for photos and explore the grounds of the Xi'an Shibian Memorial Hall and Changle Park.