Xian

Xian...

is home to the Terra Cotta Warriors. It was believed that these were made to accompany the emperor of China at the time (in 246 BC) Quin Shi Huang in the after life.

Some Chinese peasants found a small amount of artifacts back in 1974 while digging for a well near the emperor's royal tomb and from there, all of this has been uncovered.(This is only 1 of the 3 pits) These warriors and their horses were found in battle formations prepared to guard the emperor on his journeys. It was quite interesting.

I found my warrior to take home!

This is how an emperial guard looked back in those days - or so they believe One of the factories that hand sculpted replica's of the Terra Cotta Warriors.

These women were very talented!

Buddha was EVERYWHERE! I couldn't help but rub his belly everytime I saw him!

I was being a dork and imitating the Terra Cotta Warriors

This man was hand painting EVERYTHING! He wasn't copying anything or tracing these pictures. It was unbelievable! He would you these boards to keep his hand steady and keep him from smearing his art work as he worked. You can see some of the furniture behind him... those are all his! I loved it because there were no two that were a like!

This chef made fresh noodles right in front of us. I couldn't believe the talent of this guy! I must say, it was impressive!

Another Buddhist temple! They were all so gorgeous! I couldn't believe the detail of these places which have been around FOREVER!

This was one meal that was DELICIOUS! They put a variety of meats, noodles, veggies and spices in front of us and let us make our own concoction. I have to say, mine turned out pretty good!