Xian is the capital of the Shaanxi province (located in the central part of mainland China). It is one of the oldest cities in the country, with more than 3,100 years of history. The Qinling Mountains are located to the South of the city and the Foping Nature Reserve is in the middle of the mountain range, a 200 km (4-5 hour) drive from Xian. On arrival at the reserve entrance it is a further 8km hike through the forest to the research station.