Xi’an, an ancient city that shaped Chinese civilization, marks the starting point of the historic Silk Road. Here, history and modern life coexist in remarkable harmony. For travelers seeking a rich cultural experience, Xi’an offers an unforgettable journey through time.
Home to the world-famous Terracotta Army, the imposing Ming Dynasty City Wall, and the elegant Big Wild Goose Pagoda, the city blends ancient heritage with vibrant modern life. Whether exploring historic landmarks or enjoying dynamic city scenes, visitors will discover the unique charm where past and present meet.
Here are some of the most worthwhile experiences to consider during your visit.
The Terracotta Warriors
No visit to Xi’an is complete without seeing the Terracotta Army, often called the Eighth Wonder of the World. Discovered in 1974, this vast underground army of life-size soldiers and horses was built to guard the tomb of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang.
Tip: The Terracotta Army is located at the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor, in Lintong District, Xi’an, Shaanxi Province, China. The exact address is at the intersection of Qinling North Road and Qin Warrior Museum Road, about 37.5 kilometers (approximately 23 miles) northeast of downtown Xi’an.
It usually takes about one hour by car from the city center to the site. The official name of the site is the “Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor” (Qin Shi Huang Di Ling) and it is often referred to as the Terracotta Warriors Museum.
Opening hours:
- From March 16 to November 15: 8:30 AM – 6:30 PM (last entry at 5:00 PM)
- From November 16 to March 15: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM)
Visitors are recommended to allow 3 to 4 hours to fully explore the exhibition halls.
For navigation, you can search for “Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor” or “Terracotta Army Pit 1 Exhibition Hall.”
| Ticket Type | Price (CNY) | Eligibility / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Full Ticket | 120 | Applies to most foreign adult visitors. Includes access to the Mausoleum, Terracotta Museum, and shuttle bus. |
| Half Ticket | 60 | Foreign children over 1.4 meters tall but under 16 years old; full-time foreign students in China with valid student ID. |
| Free Admission | Free | Foreign children under 1.4 meters tall. No prior reservation needed, present passport or valid ID at entry. |
| Senior Ticket | Not available | Foreign visitors aged 65 and above must purchase full or half ticket; no senior discounts apply. |
Ancient City Wall
The Xi’an Ancient City Wall is the best-preserved and largest ancient city wall remaining in China. It was originally built during the Hongwu period of the Ming Dynasty, more than 600 years ago. The wall stretches approximately 13.7 kilometers, encircling the old city of Xi’an, and served as a crucial part of the ancient defense system.
This sturdy wall was once used to protect the city from invasions and now stands as an important symbol of Xi’an’s historical and cultural heritage. Visitors can either walk or rent bicycles to circle the wall, enjoying panoramic views of the ancient cityscape as well as the modern urban skyline.
The wall is especially charming at sunset and when illuminated at night, showcasing a unique blend of history and modernity. For travelers interested in history, architecture, and culture, the Xi’an Ancient City Wall is a must-visit attraction.
Address
South Street, Beilin District, Xi’an (near the Bell Tower)
Opening Hours
- March 1 to November 30: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM (night visits available; evening tours recommended)
- December 1 to end of February: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Ticket Prices
- Adult: 54 CNY
- Discounted (students, seniors): 27 CNY
- Free for children under 1.2 meters tall
Transportation Tips
Xi’an Metro Line 1 and Line 2 both stop at Bell Tower Station, from which it is a short walk to the Ancient City Wall entrance.
Visiting Tips
Electric cart rentals and guided tours are available for those who want to learn more about the wall’s history and architecture.
Renting a bicycle to circle the wall is highly recommended for a full experience of the ancient fortifications.
Sunset and the nighttime light show are the best times to visit.
Muslim Quarter and Great Mosque
The Muslim Quarter is one of Xi’an’s most vibrant and culturally rich neighborhoods. Located near the Bell Tower, this area is famous for its bustling streets filled with food stalls, souvenir shops, and a lively atmosphere reflecting the traditions of the Hui Muslim community.
Visitors to the Muslim Quarter can enjoy a variety of local delicacies such as Roujiamo (Chinese-style flatbread sandwich), Yangrou Paomo (mutton soup with bread), and Biangbiang noodles, among others. The narrow streets are perfect for exploring on foot, immersing in the sights, sounds, and flavors unique to this historic area.
Adjacent to the Muslim Quarter is the Great Mosque of Xi’an, one of the oldest and most renowned mosques in China. Built originally during the Tang Dynasty and expanded in later dynasties, the mosque blends traditional Chinese architectural styles with Islamic elements. It remains an active place of worship and a testament to the deep-rooted Muslim culture in Xi’an.
| Attraction | Address | Opening Hours | Ticket Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Muslim Quarter | Near Bell Tower, Beilin District, Xi’an | Open daily | Free | Best visited during daytime and early evening |
| Great Mosque | No. 30 Xingqing Road, Beilin District, Xi’an | 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Approx. 25 CNY | Active place of worship; please dress modestly and respect customs |
The Big Wild Goose Pagoda
The Big Wild Goose Pagoda is a famous Buddhist pagoda in southern Xi’an, originally built in 652 AD during the Tang Dynasty. It was constructed to house sacred Buddhist scriptures brought from India by the monk Xuanzang. The pagoda stands about 64 meters tall with seven stories and symbolizes Xi’an’s rich cultural and religious history.
Surrounding the pagoda is the Da Ci’en Temple complex and a large square featuring a musical fountain show, creating a peaceful and scenic environment for visitors.
| Attraction | Address | Opening Hours | Ticket Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Big Wild Goose Pagoda | Daci’en Temple, Yanta District, Xi’an | 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Approx. 50 CNY (pagoda entrance) | Temple grounds free; fountain show seasonal |
Visiting Tips:
- Late afternoon visits allow you to enjoy beautiful sunset views.
- Don’t miss the musical fountain show in the evening, usually seasonal.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the area requires walking.
My Thoughts
As a city steeped in history, Xi’an attracts a large number of visitors from across China. The vast majority of tourists focus their visits on a few key attractions such as the Terracotta Army, the Ancient City Wall, the Muslim Quarter, and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda.
These sites are not only of great historical and cultural significance but also represent the most popular destinations in Xi’an.
In contrast, many other attractions within the city have been developed primarily for tourism and lack substantial cultural or historical depth. For first-time visitors or those with limited time, concentrating on these core sites will undoubtedly provide a richer and more authentic experience of Xi’an.
After exploring these landmarks, it is highly recommended to shift your focus to sampling Xi’an’s diverse and flavorful cuisine. From the authentic street food in the Muslim Quarter to traditional local specialties, the city’s culinary offerings add an unforgettable dimension to any visit.
