Xi'an, Western China
Xi’an, located in Shaanxi Province, is one of China’s most historically significant cities. Known as the starting point of the Silk Road and home to the Terracotta Army, it is a treasure trove of Chinese culture and history. Here’s a detailed guide to exploring Xi’an:
Tourist Attractions
Terracotta Army Museum
- Highlights: This UNESCO World Heritage Site houses thousands of life-sized terracotta warriors, horses, and chariots that were buried with Emperor Qin Shi Huang.
- Entrance Fee: ¥120–¥150 (varies by season).
- Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM.
- How to Get There: Take Bus 306 or a taxi (40 km from the city center).
Xi’an City Wall
- Highlights: The most well-preserved ancient city wall in China. Visitors can bike along the top for panoramic views.
- Entrance Fee: ¥50.
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM (summer); 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (winter).
- How to Get There: Accessible via subway to Yongning Gate Station.
Big Wild Goose Pagoda
- Highlights: A Tang Dynasty Buddhist pagoda with scenic fountains and gardens.
- Entrance Fee: ¥40 (additional ¥30 to climb the pagoda).
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM.
- How to Get There: Bus 610 or Metro Line 3 to Dayanta Station.
Muslim Quarter
- Highlights: A vibrant street filled with markets and food stalls offering local delicacies.
- Entrance Fee: Free.
- Opening Hours: All day (best visited in the evening).
- How to Get There: A short walk from Bell Tower Metro Station.
Shaanxi History Museum
- Highlights: A vast collection of artifacts from the Zhou to Tang dynasties.
- Entrance Fee: Free, but a ¥30 charge applies for special exhibitions.
- Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM (closed Mondays).
- How to Get There: Bus 701 or Metro Line 2 to Xiaozhai Station.
Bell Tower and Drum Tower
- Highlights: Iconic symbols of Xi’an with traditional architecture and historical exhibits.
- Entrance Fee: ¥35 for each or ¥50 for a combined ticket.
- Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 9:30 PM.
- How to Get There: Located in the city center, near Bell Tower Metro Station.
How to Get Around
- Metro: Xi’an’s metro system is efficient and covers most major attractions. Fares start at ¥2.
- Buses: Inexpensive and extensive, but signage is often in Chinese.
- Bicycles: Rental bikes are available near City Wall and other spots.
- Taxis and Rideshares: Convenient but avoid peak hours.
- Walking: Ideal for areas like the Muslim Quarter and City Wall.
Popular Local Foods
- Roujiamo: Often called the “Chinese hamburger,” filled with tender meat.
- Biangbiang Noodles: Thick, hand-pulled noodles in a spicy sauce.
- Yangrou Paomo: Lamb soup with crumbled flatbread.
- Dumplings: Xi’an is famous for its unique dumpling banquets.
- Persimmon Pancakes: Sweet treats sold in the Muslim Quarter.
Top Nightlife Spots
De Fu Xiang (Defu Alley)
- Highlights: A lively street with bars and tea houses.
- How to Get There: Near the Bell Tower; a short taxi ride or walk.
- Entrance Fee: Free entry; pay for drinks.
- Happy Hours: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM (varies by establishment).
Tang Paradise
- Highlights: Night performances, cultural shows, and illuminated gardens.
- How to Get There: Taxi or Metro Line 4 to Qujiangchi Station.
- Entrance Fee: ¥120.
- Happy Hours: Not applicable (focuses on shows).
Xi’an Concert Hall and Grand Theater
- Highlights: Perfect for enjoying traditional Chinese music or opera.
- How to Get There: Near Big Wild Goose Pagoda.
- Entrance Fee: ¥100–¥300 (depends on the show).
- Happy Hours: Not applicable.
Vics Club
- Highlights: A modern club with international DJs.
- How to Get There: Near South Gate; taxi recommended.
- Entrance Fee: ¥50–¥100.
- Happy Hours: 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
Xi’an Brewery
- Highlights: Craft beer and a laid-back atmosphere.
- How to Get There: Near the South Gate of the City Wall.
- Entrance Fee: Free; pay for drinks.
- Happy Hours: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM.
Xi’an offers a blend of historical wonder, cultural experiences, and modern entertainment, making it an unforgettable destination for all types of travelers.