As predicted by the blog from the previous day, today was long and tiring. With the slight, lingering jetlag, waking up early for the train today was rough. But this train was no Amtrak. It was a Bullet Train, one of the fastest trains in the world, and a mode of transport I always hoped to experience. It was this boyish excitement that kept going until we boarded.

Despite being one of the fastest trains in the world, China is a vast country, and this trip was long. My excitement began to fade by the second hour, and for the rest of the cross-country trek I was asleep.

I did not know what to expect out of Xi’an. I had honestly never heard of the city before this trip, which is not necessarily bad since, unlike Beijing, I had no preconceptions going about the city.

After my nap on the train, I felt refreshed arriving at the hotel. We had a respite before visiting the Bell Tower and going to dinner, and I felt too well rested to stay in the hotel, so I decided to take a walk down the street and get a feel for the neighborhood.

Right out of the doors of the hotel I saw a street bustling with life, with street vendors, people, and neon signs. I walked partially in but could not go much further due to the scheduled meet up. The entire time in the Drum Tower and lunch I kept wondering what was down that street.

Luckily, I did not have to wonder much longer as it was our next destination that was foreshadowed down that street. It was the Muslim market! Which was by far was of the most unique sights I have ever seen. It was fit my idea of China: tight streets, street food, various shops. We just passed through, but I hope to see more of it in coming days.