I bet that you’ve heard about the famous Terracotta Army, but maybe you haven’t heard much about Xi'an, the city where the Terracotta Army is located. However, Xi'an is the best place to visit for people passionate about history, as it’s one of the few cities in China that still has a complete city wall from the old fortress intact. The city is a very interesting mix of old and new. It is bursting with a mix of cultures, dominated by the Hui ethnic minority, one of China’s Muslim communities. You will see skyscrapers and glass office buildings next to the old city walls, ancient and modern standing next to each other everywhere you go. If you’re planning a trip here, you’ll also find comfortable accommodations like hotels and Airbnb vacation rentals. Keep reading to learn more about the best things to do in Xi'an, China before your trip!
1. Walk or ride a bike around the city wall
Don’t know what to do in Xi'an? Simple - the city wall has a total length of about 14 km (8.7 mi), so you can take about 3 hours to walk the entire way or you can rent a bike to shorten the time needed for this circuit. Some parts are constantly being restored, but nonetheless, this is the best-preserved city wall in China. Walking along it gives many chances to observe the different parts of the city and the local life in the buildings around the fortress.
Xi'an City Wall
Address: downtown of Xi'an
Price: from about 8 USD / ~50 CNY
Opening Hours: 8 am to 9 pm South Gate; 8 am to 8 pm Wenchang Gate, Heping Gate, East Gate, West Gate, North Gate; 8 am to 6 pm all other gates. Closed on public holidays.
Duration: around 3 or 4 hours required.
2. Get lost in the Muslim Quarter
The Muslim Quarter starts close to the Bell Tower, west of Zhonggulou Square in the Beilin District. This is the best place to enjoy cheap and wonderful street food. Make sure to arrive here hungry, as you can snack on the local food specialties, and experience Hui Chinese culture through good food. Walking around the narrow, busy streets is quite nice and comfortable, so don’t be afraid of getting lost. You’ll eventually come back to a place you can recognize. Otherwise, ask a local for directions.
Muslim Quarter
Address: West of Bell Drum Towers Square , Beilin District, Xi'an 710000, China
3. Go up the Bell Tower
If this is your first time visiting and you don’t know what to see in Xi'an, the Bell Tower is a must. This is one of the landmarks of Xi’an, and it was built back in 1384 - one of the most imposing towers in China during that time. The entire tower is 40 m (131 ft) tall, out of which around 36 m (118 ft) is a wooden structure. It is opened for visits all year round. Due to its location, the view from the top is worth it. You’ll see the beginning of the Muslim Quarter and the crowds walking on the streets surrounding the tower.
The Bell Tower
Address: Junction of East Main Street, West Main Street, South Main Street, and North Main Street, Lianhu District, Xi'an
Price: from 5 USD / ~35 CNY
Opening Hours: 8.30 am to 9.30 pm from 1st April to 25th October. 8.30 am to 6 pm from 26th October to 31st March. Closed on public holidays.
Duration: around ½ hours required.
Access: 2 minutes walk from Zhonglou subway station
4. Climb one of the steepest mountains in the world: Huashan
With its five peaks and steep valleys, Huashan has a reputation for being one of the most dangerous hikes in the world. It’s partly true; there are a some passes where it’s dangerous, but there are safety measures taken by the park authorities. You can only go to those passes during certain hours and on the most dangerous parts, you’ll be required to wear safety equipment (harness and rope). In order to get to Huashan, you can take an approximately two hour train or a bus ride from Xi’an. Huashan Village is about 120 km (74.5 mi) away from Xi’an. Although it’s possible to organize it as a day trip from Xi’an, it would involve an early wake up and late arrival. Two or even three days gives you enough time not to have to hurry. You can plan to overnight either in town or up the mountain. Bear in mind that accommodation up the mountain will be a bit more expensive, yet it will give you the opportunity to watch the sunrise from the East Peak. You can get up both by cable car or hiking. Hiking involves going up many rock stairs until the top.
5. Terracotta Army
Finally, the most famous place is Xi’an can’t be omitted. However, timing is important when deciding to visit the Terracotta Army. If you end up there during important Chinese holidays, you might end up stuck and frustrated in a sea of people, so choose your visiting time wisely. There are many buses that can take you to the Terracotta Army and back. Most of them leave from the train station in Xi’an. Needless to say, this is one of the most memorable things to see in Xi'an. Thanks to the explanations available all around the exhibition, you will have many opportunities to learn not only a lot of history but also about the old manufacturing techniques used for terracotta objects.
Terracotta Army
Address: Qinling North Road, Lintong District, Xi'an
Price: from 20 USD / 137.72 CNY
Opening Hours: 16th March to 15th November: 08.30 am to 6.35 pm; 16th November to 15th March: 08.30 am to 6.05 pm; Closed on public holidays.
Duration: around 2 hours required.
The following content is contributed by Trip101 writer, Barry
6. Tour the historic Giant Wild Goose Pagoda (from USD 51.75)
Like a stack of boxes piled one on top of the other, rising to make its presence known, the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda is unmissable and simply a magnificent structure. A Buddhist pagoda, this fascinating structure was erected way back in the year 652. It started its life in southern Xi’an with just five stories and was rebuilt about a century later, updated to what it presently is. Since then, the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda has withstood the ravages of time and is, today, a popular tourist destination. Found just a short distance from Xi’an city center, your visit to this part of China wouldn’t be complete without dropping by this spot. Embark on a walking tour of the pagoda to delve into the history of Chinese Buddhism.
Private Big Wild Goose Pagoda Buddhism Walking Tour
Duration: 3.5 to 4.5 hour
7. Learn about local history at Shaanxi History Museum (from USD 110.0)
From the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, travel a short distance to another site holding a treasure trove of history; Shaanxi History Museum. China is known to bear millennia’s worth of history and this museum is a great place to explore the country’s past. This expansive facility was first opened in 1991 and boasts the accolade of being the first modern national museum. There are several exhibition halls, each one packed with relics and art pieces that portray the life and times of the people during the Qin, Han, and Tang Dynasties. This attraction is a fascinating place to visit, offering lots to learn in the way of history and culture.
Xi'an Half-Day Tour of Shaanxi History Museum and Big Wild Goose Pagoda
Duration: 4 hours
8. Visit the Tang Dynasty Palace and catch the Tang Dynasty Show (from USD 74.0)
History buffs will find this an interesting thing to do in Xi'an. Not to be confused with the Daming Palace, the Tang Dynasty Palace is actually a theater that pays homage to the ancient Tang culture and traditions through song and dance. This grand performance venue has hosted hundreds of performances since its inception in the late 80s. Today, it is just as appealing as it was when it first started, hosting the popular Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Show, a must when in the city. The ‘palace’ also boasts a restaurant so you can plan to have dinner just before the performances. If you do opt to enjoy a meal, remember that dinner is served about an hour and a half before the show starts.
Xian Tang Dynasty and Ancient Chinese Culture Live Performance
Duration: 1 to 2 hours
9. Explore the stunning Qinglong Temple
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Qinglong Temple, also known as Green Dragon Temple, is an ancient site that is known to have been constructed around the year 582. During this time, Buddhism was a major religion in the area and Qinglong was where Japanese monks came to study. During the Tang Dynasty, this temple hosted some important Buddhist figures, for instance, Huiguo, a prominent Chinese monk. Fast forward to 1086 and Qinglong faced a tragic year that saw its destruction and ultimate obscurity that lasted almost 9 centuries. Its saving grace came in 1963 when it was re-discovered and restored to its present state, reviving stories from its past. Learn about the prominent figures who lived here over a millennium ago and familiarize yourself with the local culture by touring the fascinating Qinglong Palace.
Qinglong Temple
Address: Yanta District, Xi'an, China
10. Sample local cuisines at Yongxing Fang food street (from USD 75.0)
If you’re a foodie or you’re just curious about the local food scene, head down to Yongxing Fang food street and be mesmerized by the wide array of traditional Shaanxi food. The street is found within ancient Xi’an through Zhongshan Gate, a historic part of the city that’s marked by ancient buildings and a decorated archway. However, the historic architecture isn’t why both locals and tourists love this street; it’s the food. Yongxing boasts treats from all over the province, like qishan ganmianpi, which is basically a noodle dish. You should also seek out roujiamo, the local version of a hamburger. Good things are also said about jingyang pebble-baked cake. Whatever you choose to try, a food tour through this street should be the perfect introduction to the local delicacies.
Xian Small-Group 3-Hour Night Food Tour with Local Beers
Duration: 3 hours
11. Enjoy a day at Huaqing Pool (from USD 54.6)
You’ll hear lots of stories about Huaqing Pool, most of which are love stories between Emperor Xuanzong and Yang Guifei. You’ll hear how these two love birds spent hours here composing music. However, aside from the tales of romance, Huaqing’s story goes deeper and farther back. Thanks to the naturally occurring hot springs, several dynasties opted to have their palaces built here to take advantage of the warm waters. Of course, the palace was updated with each dynasty before it faced significant destruction in the wake of the An Lushan rebellion. However, it was later rebuilt and Huaqing Pool is presently the site of five hot spring pools. This spot also boasts a pear garden and the Nine Dragon Lake, among other attractions that you can explore.
Xi'an Chang Hen Ge Evening Show Ticket in Huaqing Pool
12. Visit the animals at Xi'an Qinling Wildlife Park
Spare a day to visit the animals at Qinling Wildlife Park, known for being home to over 300 animal species. Found in the Qinling Mountains, the park boasts an expanse of lush landscape that is divided into the walking and driving areas. If you’re in a hurry, you can settle for just the walking area and interact with the monkeys, flamingoes, parrots as well as kangaroos. Larger animals like hartebeests, giraffes, wildebeests, as well as the big cats like tigers, cougars, and leopards, are in the driving section. And if you’re fascinated by pandas, you’ll find these delightful creatures at Qinling as well.
Qinling Wildlife Park Admission Ticket in Xi'an, China - Klook
13. Wander around Shaanxi Xi'an Botanical Garden
Sitting on 106 ac (43 ha), Xi’an Botanical Garden’s expansive real estate is packed with thousands of plant species. In fact, there are approximately 4,000 species in the 11 different sections within the garden. A tour will reveal stunning flowers that form a colorful display in the Hundred Flowers Garden. If you’re traveling with kids, you can let them run free in the Children’s Garden, an excellent place where they can learn about plants, or let them explore the fascinating Qinling Garden. Xi’an Botanical Garden is a tranquil location that makes for a perfect retreat if you’re looking for some serenity.
Shaanxi Xi'an Botanical Garden
Address: 17 Cuihua Rd, Xiao Zhai Shang Ye Jie, Yanta District, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
Website: Shaanxi Xi'an Botanical Garden
Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)
14. Go shopping in Datang Everbright City
The stunning Everbright City may seem like a mere pedestrian street during the day - a typical tourist hub with multiple shopping outlets. However, at night, its personality transforms when the colorful array of lights turn on. Don’t be mistaken, it’s no dull place to visit at day time, with lots to see and do for young and old alike. But to take your experience to the next level, consider strolling the streets after sunset when virtually every structure lights up to give it a lively appeal. This pedestrian street is found close to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and spans approximately 700,000 sq ft (650,000 sqm). If you’re looking for a one-stop destination to shop or dine, Datang Everbright City is the place to visit.
Datang Everbright City
Address: Big Wild Goose Pagoda South Square, No. 6, East Section of Huanta South Road, Yanta District, Xi'an
15. Buy souvenirs in Shu Yuan Men (Ancient Culture Street)
Shu Yuan Men is another popular street in Xi’an, known best for its stunning display of traditional Chinese crafts and paintings, among other cultural artifacts. Much smaller compared to Datang Everbright City, this street has a much deeper history, evident from the ancient architecture that makes up the stores. If you’re interested in buying souvenirs, then Shu Yuan Men is where you need to be. Some of the most popular items for sale are calligraphy scrolls, antiques, traditional Chinese paintings, and jade articles. You should also take the time to admire ancient structures like the Bell Tower and Shuyuan Gate, or visit Stele Forest.
Shu Yuan Men
Address: Shuyuanmen, Beilin District, Xi'an 710001 China
Everything you need is right there in Xi'an
History, wonderful food, modern architecture, old city walls, towers, and mountains, there are plenty of things to do in Xi'an, China. No matter how long you will end up spending in Xi’an, it is the type of city where you will always have something new to discover. And if you think that you’ve already seen all that the city has to offer, just start reading about its very long history - it will keep you busy for a while.
Frequently asked questions about things to do in Xi'an, China
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