Day 108: Shiyang to Xi’an - Tues 11 Jun, 2013

Day 108: Shiyang to Xi’an - Tues 11 Jun, 2013
Blue sky day, got last (blurred) photo of the elusive noisy bird, and off to Xi’an, Shaanxi Provence, (once China’s political capital, and terminus of Silk Road), home of famed Terracotta Warriors. Newly tightened brakes worked rather too well on trip down the mountain from our Botanical Park, spent much time against seat belt harness... Much increased visibility today, smog blown elsewhere. Supposed to be Dragon Boat Festival time, but not in Xi’an because there’s no large river. (Can’t understand why NAVO didn't factor into our schedule??)

Reason why you need good brakes on this section....

 


 

Xi’an is in a green peaceful valley surrounded by rocky mountains ("looks like Tamworth" said Guy), low buildings, very few chimneys belching smoke. Many small caves cut into hills, people used to live in these 'yellow-earth' cave houses. Mao Zedung had his main office in one in this area, some now with vaults and headstones. 

 

 

Darn it, spoke too soon, main city over the rise, pollution bank, high-rises, power station in midst of residential. Found Metro to shop/stock up. Camped in Big Goose Pagoda carpark. Joined waiting line for dinner at Pizza Hut with Miles, Marina and Andy, very pleasant. 

 

 













Stupa lit up, coloured fountain show at Pagoda, literally thousands of people, happy family atmosphere, glow in the dark headbands, whip cracking, stalls, lights, sparkling lit kites. Walked back to our neon campsite through underpass tunnel, admiring skill of teens on roller blades.