Heritage trail · Xi'an
Xi'an: in the footsteps of Yang Guifei
As Chang'an, Xi'an was the Tang dynasty capital and one of the greatest cities in the world. Follow the court's most famous woman from the hot springs where she bathed to the streets where young women wear Tang style dress again.
Women who led
The women behind Xi'an
Consort and dancer
Yang Guifei
Emperor Xuanzong's beloved consort, one of the Four Beauties of ancient China, and a skilled dancer and musician.
Empress
Wu Zetian
The only woman in Chinese history to rule as emperor in her own name. Her tomb, Qianling, lies northwest of Xi'an.
Poet
Shangguan Wan'er
A brilliant poet who drafted imperial decrees and judged poetry at court.
Dress through time
What women wore, and what it said
- Tang dynasty, 8th century
Yang Guifei
The beauty of the Tang court, whose elegance reflects the golden age of Chang'an, a city of culture and openness.
- Song dynasty, 10th to 13th century
A woman of scholarship
As Xi'an remained a hub of learning and trade, women grew in knowledge, art and influence at home and in society.
- Ming dynasty, 14th to 17th century
Strength at home
Amid a changing world, women kept families together with resilience, skill and quiet strength.
- Qing dynasty, 17th to 20th century
Tradition and change
As new ideas arrived, women began to embrace education and a wider world.
- 1930s
A modern awakening
Winds of reform reached Xi'an. Women stepped into schools, workplaces and public life.
- 1980s
Building a new life
With China's opening up, women in Xi'an embraced new opportunities and helped shape a more vibrant city.
- 2000s
Growth and dreams
As Xi'an grew into a modern regional hub, women balanced career, family and growth with confidence.
- 2020s
A new generation
Global, independent and resilient, carrying forward centuries of culture and the spirit of Chang'an.