We loved Mian Shan area so much that we decided to postpone our planned trip to Xi’an in few hours, and take a speed train afternoon. So..whole morning we explored new areas of Mian Shan with Beautiful Taoist temples and valleys. Our favorites are: Chess Cave in Qixuan Valley
Zhujia Hollow Area
It takes almost an hour with taxi to drive from Mian Shan area to Jiexiu Speed Train Station. It’s a large modern facility, with wide road and large concrete empty space in front of the building.
Although, right next to the raised platform , down below bordering farmer’s fields with greenery
We arrived to Xi’an by bullet train from Jiexiu. It was fun to look outside and to the screen of the tablo showing “250 km/hr” speed of the train.
After train we took a subway. It is very economical, comfortable and convenient way to travel in the city. Downtown Xian
Muslim Quarters in Xian with rows of small shops and restaurants with food to taste is a must area to visit in the evening while in Xi’an.
We stayed in Downtown in City Hotel Xi’an , very convenient hotel for travellers.
Next morning we took a bus to enormous exhibition of Terracota Army. It’s gigantic place and unbelievable artifacts attracts billions of people from around the world as a “Must See in China” tourist attraction.
Next early morning we flew to relaxing and beautiful Qingdao city- “Oriental Switzerland”
Next morning we decided to visit Laoshan.
It is a well known area, and better to visit it early in the morning before the crowds. Also, when you take a shuttle bus to temples, first start with the farthest areas to explore..
Laoshan
You need at least a day in Laoshan (better two, if you can arrange staying overnight in beautiful challets in this area.
Also, Qingdao is an interesting city as well. We visited Military museum, Bathing Beaches and downtown narrow streets..