Shaanxi

Shaanxi Province is located in Northwestern China. It spans about 205,800 square kilometers and has a population of around 38 million. The provincial capital is Xi'an, a city with a history dating back millennia.

Geography and climate: Shaanxi lies largely on the Loess Plateau and is divided by the Qinling Mountains into northern and southern regions. The Yellow River runs through the province, shaping agriculture on the Guanzhong Plain. The climate ranges from semi-arid in the north to temperate in the south.

History and culture: The area figures prominently in early Chinese history; Chang'an (modern Xi'an) served as capital for several dynasties including the Zhou, Qin, and Han. The Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor, where the Terracotta Army was buried, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The province was also an early center of the Chinese Communist movement, with Yan'an serving as a base during the 1930s and 1940s.

Economy and infrastructure: Shaanxi has a diversified economy with energy, petrochemicals, equipment manufacturing, and aerospace. The province is served by rail and road networks, and Xi'an is a major transport and educational hub with an international airport.

Tourism and landmarks: In addition to the Terracotta Army, attractions include the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, the Xi'an City Wall, and Mount Hua, one of China's Five Great Mountains. Banpo Neolithic Village offers a view of early urban life.

Administrative divisions: The province comprises multiple prefecture-level cities, including Xi'an, Baoji, Xianyang, Weinan, Yan'an, Yulin, Hanzhong, Shangluo, Ankang, Tongchuan.