Once the starting point of the Silk Road, Xi’an reached its heyday as early as in the 8th century. But in the new era, the historic city continues its glory by playing a major role in industrial manufacturing, education and science development in northwestern China. /VCG Photo

A night view of the ancient city walls built in the Ming-era. /VCG Photo

The famous Terracotta Army stood in Xi’an. / VCG Photo

A snowy view of the Dayan Pagoda in Xi'an. /VCG Photo