Beijing to Xi'an
Today we are leaving Beijing for Xi'an but before we do, we want to catch the last glimpse of Tiananmen Square and the major buildings surrounding it - the Monument to the People's Heroes, the Great Hall of the People, the National Museum of China, and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong.
Farewell to Beijing
After a Chinese breakfast - some kind of sweet yogurt and a tiny creamy tart, we were heading to the square. The place is massive. Not such a surprise it could hold half a million people. We were far from that number on that day but many Chinese like to visit the area. Two Belgians travelling the world set foot on that square that day.
Bullet Train Experience
Time flies when you're having fun, and we had to rush back to the hostel to get ready for our first bullet train. Getting the train tickets was stressful but simple when you know the drill. Just don't forget to bring your passport and get the instructions translated in Chinese.
The bullet train is, to be honest, more exciting before departure as you pass by its impressive streamlined forefront. Inside, it's clean and comfortable and you don't feel like you're riding at 330 km per hour.
In less than 5 hours, we arrived at Xi'an.
Welcome to Xi'an
It was already late but we couldn't wait to explore the city. A quick shower to freshen up and we went strolling in the Muslim Quarter. That place was unique. The smells and colours were all around. Locals like to kill time and grab a bite among the food stalls and restaurants serving honey cakes, dried fruits and barbecued meat on skewers. The freshness and cleanliness might be questionable by our European standards but we promised ourselves to come back for some chuan'er - small beef or lamb skewers fully coated in chilli pepper and cumin powder.
Beijing to Xi'an by Bullet Train
- Distance: 1,200km from Beijing to Xi'an - covered in less than 5 hours by bullet train
- High-speed rail: Bullet trains travel at 330 km/h - smooth, clean, and comfortable
- Book tickets in advance - bring your passport and have your destination written in Chinese characters
- Visit Tiananmen Square before departure - allow extra time as the square is massive (can hold 500,000 people)
- Major landmarks around Tiananmen: Monument to the People's Heroes, Great Hall of the People, National Museum, Mao's Mausoleum
- Muslim Quarter is a must-visit in Xi'an - vibrant atmosphere with unique smells and colors
- Try chuan'er (串儿) - grilled beef or lamb skewers coated in chili pepper and cumin powder
- Muslim Quarter food stalls offer honey cakes, dried fruits, and barbecued meat - hygiene standards may differ from Western expectations
- The Muslim Quarter is lively at night - perfect for evening exploration after arriving in Xi'an
Note:
Pin These Moments
🚄 Bullet Train
Our first Chinese bullet train experience - traveling 1,200km from Beijing to Xi'an at 330 km/h!
🏛️ Tiananmen Square
Final glimpse of Beijing's iconic Tiananmen Square before heading to Xi'an
🌙 Muslim Quarter
Exploring Xi'an's vibrant Muslim Quarter with its unique street food and lively night atmosphere
Have you taken the bullet train in China? What was your speed record? Have you explored Xi'an's Muslim Quarter at night? What's your favorite street food there? Share your experiences!