A foreigner in Chang'an over a thousand years ago

In ancient China, the capital Chang’an was a hub for students from neighboring countries, including Ch’oe Ch’iwon from Silla. He studied at Guozijian, the highest educational institution of the Tang Dynasty, where he prepared for imperial exams alongside peers from various regions. Chang’an featured distinct residential areas called fang and bustling markets like the Western Market, a key trade center on the Silk Road. After completing his studies, Ch’oe Ch’iwon returned to Silla, becoming a prominent Confucian scholar. Following his departure, Chang’an faced destruction and was later rebuilt as Xi’an. Despite the changes, the essence of Chang’an, meaning 'lasting peace,' endures in memory.