Ascending the Xi'an City Wall from Changle Gate unfolds a cultural journey linking past and present, where watchtowers serve as gateways to the region's rustic charm, dynastic elegance, and living heritage.

Start from the Changle Gate in the East: Folk Arts and Shadow Play

The journey begins at Watchtower 97, where the warm, earthy essence of Guanzhong life unfolds through well-used artifacts like bronze oil lamps and old food containers, rich with the heartfelt warmth of the Loess Plateau.

Watchtower 98 transports visitors to the Han and Tang Dynasties' glory, where a millennia-old ox-shaped bronze lamp and a turquoise-inlaid gold dagger hilt stand as stunning testaments to ancient craftsmanship and luxury.

At Watchtower 2, the raw energy of Qin Opera is palpable, with resounding clappers and soaring vocals that "shatter the sorrows of millennia," conveying its timeless dramatic force.

Next, Watchtower 6 reveals the art of shadow puppetry. Meticulously carved pieces from Huaxian County's Wang family, like the lively "Monkey King's Royal Procession" and tragic "Farewell My Concubine," are brought to life, embodying the saying: "One mouth tells tales of a thousand years; a pair of hands maneuvers a million soldiers."

Southward Through Time: History and Lasting Charm

In the southern section, Watchtower 7 presents a delightful surprise: Lei Jun's "Terracotta Warriors" paper-cuts, which use intricate hollow-out techniques to soften the figures' stern lines, imbue their flowing robes with a dynamic grace.

Inside Watchtower 10, Tai Liping's "Child Riding a Lion" springs vividly to life, where heritage techniques meet childlike delight in an air of joyous celebration.

Stepping into Watchtower 13 transports visitors to the Tang court's splendor, where gilded armor glimmers in "Guard in Robes" and "Musical Performance" echoes with pipa melodies, evoking the interwoven camel bells and music of ancient Chang'an's Western Market.

Watchtower 16 houses precious eaves tiles from the Xi'an Qin Brick and Han Tile Museum. Each tile is an imprint of time, whispering of the ancient artisans who carved them.

From Changle Gate to Wenchang Gate, this stretch of wall connects the essence of Guanzhong life, Han-Tang brilliance, and living heritage through its watchtower museums. To walk its length and touch its weathered bricks is to feel the cultural roots Xi'an has preserved through time.