Xi'an is a sufficiently polluted and dusty city that a stroll in a park comes as welcome respite, so if you want to escape the noise and traffic, head for the Xingqing Park. Laid out in 1958 and covering 53ha, it is home to a large lake, an aviary and narrow paths which wind their way between shaded temples, pagodas and pavilions. Visitors will also find plenty of entertainment on offer here, including animal trainers, theatre performances etc.