:: zone3 :: Trains and Xi'an

Friday, August 31. 2007

Trains and Xi'an

Was a nice train down from Beijing to Xi'an, sleeper trains really are the way to get around. Although, the Chinese are pretty exact on their lights out in the 3-up hard sleepers. Lights go out at 10pm on the dot and back on at 6am.

Yesterday went off to see the Terracotta Warriors. Did see them last time I was in Xi'an, but being the May holidays it was packed 5 deep with Chinese tourists. This time around it was a wet day and sort of the off season, so was able to get a much better look. Even the 2nd time seeing them, still very impressive. Can see that all the faces on them are different.

Considering it's been a steady rain while here, it's good that did a lot of the touristy stuff last time, this time have just pretty much relaxed. Two nights in a row have have Chinese Hot Pot for dinner, fun interactive food. For those that haven't tried it, you get a pot of broth put in front of you on a little burner and some plates of vegetables, seafood, meat, etc. You then just throw what you want in the boiling broth for a few minutes and then pull out the cooked food. Tasty!

Think tomorrow will have to include the compulsory tourist activity of riding a bike around the city on top of the city walls. Looks like will be a fine day for it. Then on to a train for a 18 overnight ride. Have soft sleepers this time so a bit more room.