Fargo Travel

Reviewed on TripAdvisor November 2024.
I had the privilege of interviewing a farmer named Yang, who played a significant role in the discovery of the Terracotta Warriors, with the assistance of an interpreter. I asked him to share his experience regarding the discovery and the global response it garnered. Here is his story, translated through the interpreter.
On March 29, 1974, three farmers were digging a well south of their village when they unexpectedly came across a large hole filled with pottery fragments, arrowheads, and crossbow parts. That evening, they returned to pray to the gods and burned joss sticks as an act of homage. Unsure of what to do with their discovery, the farmers contacted the Lintong county government.
They were met by Zhao Kangmin and two others from the Lintong Culture Club, who were responsible for archaeological affairs. The team was astonished by what they encountered, and in the following months, they managed to restore a few of the figures. However, unaware of their historical significance, they did not report their findings to the ruling government.
By coincidence, a journalist named Lin Anwen was visiting his family in town. Since his wife worked in the cultural department, he had the opportunity to see the restored figures. With his background in journalism, he recognised the importance of this discovery. After interviewing Zhao Kangmin, he made headlines with the report, "Terracotta Warriors of the Qin Dynasty Unearthed in the Tomb Area of the First Emperor."
This revelation captured the attention of high-ranking government officials, and Vice Premier Li Xiannian announced the incredible discovery to the world. As a result, news spread rapidly, and the figures became known and cherished as the Terracotta Warriors.
A final note: China’s First Emperor, Qin Shi Huang, wanted to live forever. He spent a considerable amount of resources building a magnificent underground empire, equipped with everything he would need for the afterlife. He had palaces, an army to protect him, chariots for travelling in, stables full of horses, entertainers and even his concubines.
When I reflect on this remarkable site, is it fair to say that humanity's egotism and pride have been evident in how one man could spend vast sums of money and risk human life to secure his legacy and presence in the afterlife? Or should we be grateful that we now have the opportunity to admire these memorable artifacts from a bygone era?

Simien Mountains.
My original plan was to hike with a group for three days/two 2nights, but that had to be cancelled due to a breakout of civil war in the Amarha region, including Lalibela. My back plan was put into motion, and I am glad this worked out better than expected. Simply put, the Simien Mountains are incredible. Nobody seems to think of Ethiopia looking majestic with green valleys and rugged mountain peaks. Humongous, green pinnacle peaks, deep valleys dotted with grass-hut villages, and fog blanketing the scenery for a picture-perfect moment. Simien is breathtaking. Apart from the scenery, there is also an array of wildlife. Most likely, you will see the Gelada Monkey hordes covering the hills, planning their next assault on the fields of golden wheat. The chances of seeing Ethiopia’s rare majestic Walia Ibex are also high. Simien can also provide a cultural experience as well. Many Ethiopians call Simien National Park their home. They grow wheat on gravity-defying terraces and live in very traditional grass-roof houses. Trekking here is extremely rewarding. Simien is a World Heritage site, and any trek here will stick with you long after you have left. Trek Simien: Many thanks to my guide Dawat, the Ranger ( this is compulsory when doing treks in the Simieans, the cook and driver). These guys were exceptional in pointing out the best scenic points and the tasty dishes that were handed out, and they also gave me a helping hand to climb the steep mountain ridges.
Extremely rewarding. Simien is a World Heritage site, and any trek here will stick with you long after you have left. Trek Simien: I promise you will never forget this beautiful corner of Ethiopia.