Xuzhou blends ancient history with contemporary culture. It sits halfway between Beijing and Shanghai and is a gateway to national treasures like Cloud Dragon Mountain and the Western Han Dynasty Terracotta Warriors.
Things to do in Xuzhou
The Memorial Tower for Martyrs in Huaihai Battle towers over the city centre. The enormous monument is dedicated to the men and women who lost their lives in the Chinese Civil War. The Gallery of Han Stone Sculptures offers a glimpse at Xuzhou's ancient past. It's filled with more than 800 works, including the famous “Weaving Picture”, which depicts a woman hand-looming textiles as she nurses a baby.
Venture outside the city limits and you'll find Yunlong Park, an incredible cultural site cradling the Western Han Dynasty Terracotta Warriors. It's known as China's "other terracotta army" and features over 4,000 soldiers, archers, chariots, horses and servants said to have accompanied Prince Liu Wu into the afterlife.
Yunlong Park sits at the foot of Cloud Dragon Mountain. It's strewn with pine trees and is dotted with koi ponds, arched bridges and beautifully kept Chinese gardens. You can also admire ancient relics, including an enormous stone sculpture of Buddha and Tang-dynasty carvings.
Set in the heart of the city, Quanshan National Forest Park is filled with lush gardens. It's home to Niaoyue Garden, one of China's biggest bird sanctuaries. Enjoy a cup of matcha at one of the teahouses, practice your swing at the golf course or walk on the scenic trails.
Getting around Xuzhou
Xuzhou is easy to get around on foot, especially around the historic districts. The city is well-serviced by buses and taxis. Trains run to major cities, including Beijing and Shanghai. Flights arrive at Xuzhou Guanyin Airport, located 45 kilometres away.