Xian to Chongquin - 9th February 2008

Spent the day in Xian and went to the Large Golden Goose Pagoda. A 7 story building in a large park just outside the city walls. Full of people enjoying the day off as its still Chineese new year celebration week. Kits flying everywhere.

Went up to the top and took some nice photos. Then back to the hostel to get my bags to get on the overnight sleeper train to Chongquin. After 3 days waiting I finally got a sleeper ticket but it is in a second class sleeper where the carriage is all open and the bunks are 3 high!

Train left on time and i think I was the only european on it!!! Everyoe was nicely staring. I had no time to get any food for the 16 hour trip and so bought oranges and noodles off the vendors that constantly came through the carriage. Once in the bunk, I was in the middle, it wasnt at all bad and the temperature was nice compared to what I had encountered over last week or so. Actually got wquite a nice nights sleep on the train. The train arrived at Chongquin at about 6am. Superb organisation as the tour guide John was there to meet me.