Tang Paradise, Xian (must see)

Tang Paradise is a sizable amusement park located in Xi'an. It occupies the same or nearby location where the Furong Garden complex once existed during the Tang dynasty's capital city, Chang'an.

The park showcases various structures, plazas, and gardens, all designed with elements of traditional Tang Chinese architecture, including distinctive features like overhanging roofs and decorative moldings. Some of these features are named after historical landmarks or buildings.

Tang Paradise is part of a broader trend in Shaanxi, where modern reconstructions of ancient sites incorporate elements that don't quite fit the historical period, notably the extensive use of concrete surfaces. The park spans approximately 165 acres (equivalent to 0.67 square kilometers) and surrounds a picturesque lake lined with willow trees. This layout evokes the aesthetics of classical Chinese landscape paintings.

In the evening, the park treats its numerous visitors to a spectacular Lake Show. This show includes impressive features such as lasers, video projections onto water screens, fountains, and other special effects.

What sets Tang Paradise apart is that it goes beyond the traditional Chinese garden concept of just water and mountains. Its talented designers have skillfully incorporated various elements that define the Tang Dynasty, including poetry, music, dance, bustling marketplaces, delectable cuisine, the lifestyles of women, and advancements in science, into every corner of the park, creating a rich cultural tapestry that gives each area its unique story and a distinct role in showcasing the culture of the Tang Dynasty.