The train arrived at Xi’an on time at 8:15.  I managed to sleep well and only got up once.  Spent the last 2 hours lounging around and looking out the window at the scenery – first some hills and then farmland. 

The disembarking was easy and we made our way out of the station and met our Xi’an guide out front.  Lots of people around the station, which is located just at the city wall.   Walked a few blocks to our minibus, which took us to our hotel. 

Had some breakfast at the hotel and a quick shower before meeting the guide for an orientation walk.  We walked to the Bell Tower and then through the bazaar and Muslim Quarter to the Grand Mosque.  We had a tour inside the mosque grounds, which were very peaceful and relaxing with gardens and various buildings.  

We then carried on through the bazaar and its numerous stalls of various food and snacks.   We walked to the Drum Tower and then back around towards our hotel.   Some of us stopped for lunch at a handmade noodle shop.  I had some beef on noodles with a bit of spice, which was just right.   







Then headed back to the hotel for a bit of z rest as I was feeling a bit tired.   Took a bit of a nap and then got up to head back out to the bazaar to get some souvenirs and take some night shots.  The bazaar was still packed with lots of people shopping and buying snacks.   Took some photos and headed back to the hotel for some rest.