Xi'an is China's oldest surviving capital, dating back to Neolithic period. Served as capital for 13 dynasties and 73 emperors for 1,000 years. Was eastern terminus of Silk Road connecting China with West. Designated UNESCO World Historical City in 1981
Largest desert in China, covering 330,000 square kilometers. Located in southwest Xinjiang, 1000 km east-west and 400 km north-south. Bounded by Kunlun, Pamir, Tianshan mountains and Gobi Desert