Xi’an Yongxing Fang: A Vibrant Journey Through China’s First “Intangible Cultural Heritage Food” Street
For international travelers seeking a truly immersive Chinese cultural experience, Xi’an Yongxing Fang is more than just a foodie destination—it’s a living history textbook. Built on the site of the former residence of Tang Dynasty Prime Minister Wei Zheng, this is China’s first “Intangible Cultural Heritage Food” street. concentrating Shaanxi’s three major regions’ culinary and cultural essence into a compact, 15-acre block of ancient architecture. Walking here, you’ll explore authentic Xi’an local food along vibrant food trails that tell stories stretching back a thousand years.
Cultural Context: Where History Meets Folklore
1. A Historical Landmark
Yongxing Fang was originally one of the 108 residential wards of the Tang capital. Reconstructed in 2007 as a cultural street, it retains traditional architectural elements like archways and inner streets. Today, it features interactive installations such as the world’s largest shadow puppet, a dialect culture wall, and the “Eight Oddities” street art. These exhibits allow visitors to literally touch history while strolling along Xi’an local food trails that highlight Intangible Cultural Heritage culinary traditions.
2. A Microcosm of Shaanxi Culture
The street is divided into three geographical zones:
- Guangzhong Lane: Represents central Shaanxi Plain, focusing on hearty, bold flavors like Chang’an Gourd Chicken and Lao Tong Guan Roujiamo.
- Shaan’nan Street: Showcases the southern mountainous region with delicate dishes like Hanyin Baihuoshi Cuan Tang, reflecting local natural beauty.
- Shaan’bei Quarter: Highlights northern Loess Plateau cuisine with rustic specialties such as Xuanfeng Jie Yang and Zichang Jianbing.
3. Live Cultural Experiences
Visitors can experience a range of living traditions that bring Intangible Cultural Heritage to life:
- Smashing Bowl Wine (Shuai Wan Jiu): Drink a bowl of rice wine, then smash the ceramic bowl—a centuries-old Shaan’nan ritual symbolizing “peace and safety.”
- Intangible Heritage Theater: Enjoy performances like Huaxian Shadow Puppetry, Huayin Laoqiang, and traditional storytelling shows, showcasing the region’s culinary and cultural heritage.
- Artisan Workshops: Watch craftsmen create Lichuan Tiger Skin Tofu and Xingping Stone-Ground Chili Paste, demonstrating non-heritage food techniques passed down for generations.
The Food Guide: A Flavor Map of Shaanxi
Yongxing Fang gathers Intangible Cultural Heritage foods from all corners of Shaanxi. Here are the top-rated items for visitors exploring Xi’an local food trails:
| Dish Name | Region | Description | Avg. Price (RMB) | Must-Try Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chang’an Gourd Chicken | Guangzhong | Whole chicken deep-fried until crispy and tender, served with a chili dip. Considered a Shaanxi culinary masterpiece. | 65 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Zichang Jianbing | Shaan’bei | Paper-thin rice wraps filled with potato shreds and tofu, dipped in chili oil. Rich, multi-layered texture. | 20 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Zuoshui Ciba | Shaan’nan | Glutinous rice steamed and pounded, served with honey or soybean powder. Soft, sticky, and sweet. | 15 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Qianzhou Mahua | Guangzhong | Freshly fried twisted dough sticks, crunchy and flaky. Great as snack or gift. | 10 (for 3) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Chengcheng Lamb Soup | Guangzhong | Clear, light lamb broth with meat slices and *yueya bing*. The perfect winter warmer. | 35 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Spinach Cold Noodle Roll | Guangzhong | Cold noodles wrapped with gluten, bean sprouts, and carrot, topped with chili oil. Tangy, spicy, refreshing. | 12 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Milk & Egg Fermented Rice Soup | General | Warm soup made with milk, fermented rice, and ribbons of egg, topped with nuts. Sweet and comforting. | 18 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Smashing Bowl Wine | Shaan’nan | A small bowl of low-alcohol rice wine. The ritual of smashing the bowl is the main attraction. | 5 (wine extra) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Travel Tips: Your Guide to a Seamless Visit
- Location: Inside Zhongshan Gate on Dongxin Street, Xi’an. About a 10-minute walk from Chaoyangmen Station (Metro Line 1, Exit A).
- Hours: Open all day; most businesses operate 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM.
- Entry: Free. Some performances require separate tickets.
- Best Time: After 4:00 PM for a lively atmosphere and to explore Xi’an local food trails without heavy crowds.
- Purchasing Food: Lines form quickly at popular stalls. Buy small portions first to taste.
- Shopping: Prices for handicrafts and souvenirs vary; compare before buying.
- Suggested Route: North Gate → Guangzhong Lane (Lunch) → Shaan’nan Street (Afternoon Snack) → Shaan’bei Quarter (Dinner) → Heritage Theater (Evening Show).
- Nearby Sight: Xi’an City Wall, 10-minute walk away.
💡 Related Reading: Xi’an Muslim Quarter: Savor Local Food Trails & Living Culture
Conclusion: A Feast for the Soul
Yongxing Fang distills a thousand years of Shaanxi civilization into a single, sensory experience. Through steaming lamb soup or the sharp sound of a smashing bowl, visitors witness both the flavor and the cultural legacy of Intangible Culinary Heritage. Xi’an local food trails here offer a unique window into China’s living culinary traditions.
