Xi’an, a city with a rich history spanning thirteen dynasties, is renowned for its iconic landmarks such as the City Wall, the Terracotta Army, and the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang. Yet, it also offers hidden gems like Gao’s Courtyard (高家大院), a traditional courtyard residence that embodies the essence of local culture. Nestled in the heart of Huimin Street, Gao’s Courtyard features dark blue tiles, weathered doors and windows, and intricately carved stone walls. The main structure of this historical site dates back to the Ming Dynasty’s Chongzhen period, boasting over 400 years of history.
Location: 144 Beiyuanmen, Lianhu District, Xi’an, Shaanxi Province (200 meters north of the Drum Tower, inside Huimin Street)
Admission Prices:
- Entrance Fee: 15 RMB
- Entrance + Shadow Puppetry: 30 RMB
- Entrance + Museum (closes at 6 PM): 25 RMB
- Entrance + Puppet Show: 25 RMB
- Entrance + Tea Tasting: 25 RMB
- Entrance + Shadow Puppetry + Huayin Old Qiang: 50 RMB per person
- Entrance + Shadow Puppetry + Huayin Old Qiang + Puppet Show: 60 RMB per person
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Recommended Visit Duration: 2 hours
Activities to Enjoy:
- Huayin Old Qiang: Experience this ancient art form performed by skilled artisans on an outdoor stage. With powerful shouts and rhythmic clapping, the performances take place at 11:30 AM, 12:30 PM, 2:30 PM, 4:30 PM, 6:30 PM, 8:30 PM, and 9:40 PM. Huayin Old Qiang is one of China’s oldest theatrical genres, originating from the Western Han Dynasty over 2,000 years ago, with its birthplace located at the confluence of the Huang, Wei, and Luo rivers in Quandi Village, at the foot of Huashan Mountain.
- Shadow Puppetry: Watch the performance of “The Peddler,” with shows occurring every hour. Visitors can also purchase handmade shadow puppets and figurines as souvenirs.
- Puppet Show: Enjoy the delightful tale of “Zhu Bajie Carries His Wife,” performed at 1:30 PM, 3:30 PM, and 7:30 PM.
- Tea Tasting: Relax in a dedicated tea room for just 10 RMB per person, perfect for a moment of rest and reflection.