This is why you come to Xi'an. Its huge and probably the only place worth the visit in Xi'an. What humans could do without current technology is mind blowing. I have seen an exhibition about Qin Terra-cotta Warriors in DC some time ago, but when you are in front of 4000+ bigger-than-life size warriors its quite impressive. Apparently only about one fifth of the warriers have been uncovered. Since the warriors were buried painted, the paint didnt withstand the light or oxygen when digged out. Now scientists are searching for methods to preserve the paint for conservation. I had no idea that the whole thing was in millions of fragments that had to be painstakingly reconstructed. Fake or not the amount of work is really extremely incredible!

We went to see the light and water show by the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. Its better than the Bellagio in Las Vegas but not nearly as impressive as Illuminations in Disney World. If you are there, take the time to see it as it is free. Just don't expect too much :-)

Stay away from the bath houses! Women and kids, they are not made for bath taking...need I say more?

Xi'an 11/20/12