Once the seat of 13 Chinese dynasties and the starting point of the Silk Road, Xi’an today offers a modern city filled with ancient sites and cultural traditions. With these weekend musts, you’ll have the chance to see all sides of the city with stops at historical sites and museums complemented by decadent dining and time at the spa.
FRESH START
Hit the ground running with a bike ride from the hotel along Daming Palace Heritage Park. Stop by Zhongda Shopping Mall, which is within walking distance of the hotel and is among the city’s luxurious shopping experiences. Hotel guests receive special savings on select brands and at select stores.
TIME FOR TRADITION
Unwind with Afternoon Tea at the Lobby Lounge, hosted daily from 2 to 6 p.m. The setting, including a tranquil garden, is ideal for a leisurely break with fine teas and sweet and savory snacks.
CHEF’S SPECIAL
Enjoy an early dinner at the hotel’s Jing Xuan restaurant. Led by chef Alan Chen, the kitchen offers innovative Cantonese cuisine. If you’re traveling as a group or hosting clients, reserve one of the six private dining rooms.
LOOSEN UP
Begin the day with tai-chi in the courtyard followed by a visit to The Ritz-Carlton Spa. Spread across an entire floor, the spa includes a Zen garden, indoor pool and relaxation lounges. Treatments are designed to complement one another.
ANCIENT ARMY
Known as the eighth world wonder, the Terracotta Army dates back to the third century BC when it was buried with China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. It’s estimated that the army has 8,000 soldiers, 130 chariots and 150 horses.
OFF THE WALL
The city’s Ming-era walls host an evening performance of A Song of Everlasting Sorrow. The show tells the love story of the Tang Dynasty emperor Xuan Zong and Yang Yuhuan, his beloved concubine. Advance reservations are recommended.