An archaeological site where thousands of life-sized terracotta warriors and horses were discovered, which were buried with China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang.

The Terracotta Army is a sight to behold. It is a collection of terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China. It is a form of funerary art buried with the emperor in 210–209 BCE and whose purpose was to protect the emperor in his afterlife. /n The figures, dating from approximately the late third century BCE, were discovered in 1974 by local farmers in Lintong County, outside Xi'an, Shaanxi, China. The figures vary in height according to their roles, with the tallest being the generals. The figures include warriors, chariots and horses. It is estimated that the three pits containing the Terracotta Army held more than 8,000 soldiers, 130 chariots with 520 horses and 150 cavalry horses, the majority of which remained buried in the pits near Qin Shi Huang's mausoleum.

The Terracotta Army is a collection of terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China.

A Buddhist pagoda built during the Tang Dynasty, it is one of the most famous Buddhist pagodas in China and a symbol of the city.

The Big Wild Goose Pagoda, located in southern Xian, is one of the most famous Buddhist pagodas in China. Built in 652 during the Tang dynasty, the pagoda was originally used to store and translate Sanskrit Buddhist Scriptures that were brought from India by the monk Xuanzang. /n The pagoda stands at a height of 64 meters and is an architectural marvel, with its simple, elegant style and high structure, which is typical of the Tang dynasty. The pagoda has survived numerous earthquakes and has been repaired and renovated several times throughout history. Today, it stands as a symbol of Xian and is a popular tourist attraction, offering panoramic views of the city from its top. The area around the pagoda has been developed into a beautiful park, known as the Big Wild Goose Pagoda North Square, which features beautiful gardens, fountains, and statues.

The Big Wild Goose Pagoda is a famous Buddhist pagoda in Xian, known for its historical significance and architectural beauty.

The City Wall is a large ancient defensive barrier in Xian that provides a panoramic view of the city. It is one of the oldest, largest and best preserved Chinese city walls.

The City Wall in Xian is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in Chinese history. This ancient city wall is one of the oldest and best-preserved in China, offering a unique glimpse into the country's past. The wall is approximately 14 kilometers long and includes four main gates. Visitors can walk or cycle along the top of the wall, enjoying panoramic views of the city. The wall is particularly beautiful at night when it's lit up. /n The City Wall was built during the Tang Dynasty and has a history of over 1,300 years. It's a great place to learn about China's ancient history and culture. There are also several museums and historical sites nearby, making it a great starting point for exploring Xian. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for a unique experience, the City Wall in Xian is a must-visit.

The City Wall is a well-preserved ancient city wall in Xian.

A comprehensive museum with a large collection of artifacts that tell the history of Shaanxi Province.

Shaanxi History Museum, located in Xian, is a comprehensive museum that exhibits ancient Chinese artifacts. It is one of the first huge state museums with modern facilities in China. The museum covers an area of over 70,000 square meters, housing a collection of over 370,000 items. /n The museum's collection includes artifacts from the Zhou to the Tang periods (1100BC to 907AD). The museum also has a collection of items from the prehistoric times (1,150,000 years ago – 21st Century BC). The museum is divided into three sections: the General Exhibition Hall, the Local Theme Exhibition Hall, and the Temporary Exhibition Hall. Each hall has its own unique exhibits, offering visitors a comprehensive view of China's ancient history.

Shaanxi History Museum is a comprehensive museum that exhibits ancient Chinese artifacts.

One of China's five sacred mountains, known for its breathtaking views and dangerous hiking trails. It's a popular destination for adventurous tourists.

Mount Huashan, located in Shaanxi Province, is one of China's Five Great Mountains. It is renowned for its natural beauty, religious significance, and perilous hiking trails. The mountain has five main peaks, each of which has its own unique features and attractions. /n The trails up Mount Huashan are considered some of the most dangerous in the world, with steep staircases, narrow paths, and sheer drops. Despite the danger, the mountain is a popular destination for adventurous tourists and pilgrims alike, who are rewarded with breathtaking views from the top. The mountain is also home to several ancient temples and shrines, making it an important religious site for Taoists.

Mount Huashan is one of China's Five Great Mountains, known for its breathtaking views and perilous hiking trails.

Huaqing Hot Springs, also known as Huaqing Palace, is a complex of hot springs located at the foot of Li Mountain. It is famous for its gushing hot spring water and romantic love story of Emperor Xuanzong and his concubine Yang Guifei.

Huaqing Hot Springs is a historic hot spring complex located in Xian. The complex is known for its beautiful gardens and palaces, and it's a popular tourist attraction. The hot springs have a history of over 3,000 years and were a favorite of several Chinese emperors. /n The complex includes several hot spring pools, a lake, and a number of historic buildings, including the Huaqing Palace and the Nine-Dragon Pool. The gardens are beautifully landscaped, with a variety of plants and trees. The hot springs themselves are rich in minerals and are said to have healing properties. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or just looking for a relaxing experience, Huaqing Hot Springs is a must-visit.

Huaqing Hot Springs is a historic hot spring complex with beautiful gardens and palaces.

The Great Mosque of Xi'an is the largest and best preserved of the early mosques of China. Built primarily in the Ming Dynasty, it represents a wonderful blend of Chinese and Islamic architecture styles.

The Great Mosque of Xi'an is one of the oldest and largest Islamic mosques in China. It's a beautiful blend of Chinese and Islamic architecture, and it's a popular tourist attraction. The mosque was built during the Tang Dynasty and has a history of over 1,300 years. /n The mosque is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, with beautiful gardens and courtyards. The architecture is a unique blend of Chinese and Islamic styles, with intricate carvings and calligraphy. The mosque is still in use today, and visitors can observe the daily prayers. Whether you're interested in religion, architecture, or just looking for a peaceful place to relax, the Great Mosque of Xi'an is a must-visit.

The Great Mosque of Xi'an is one of the oldest and largest Islamic mosques in China.

The Tang Dynasty Theatre offers a cultural feast of the prosperous Tang Dynasty with traditional music and dance performances.

Tang Dynasty Theatre is a popular entertainment venue in Xian, offering visitors the chance to experience traditional Chinese culture. The theatre hosts a nightly performance of music and dance from the Tang Dynasty, one of the most prosperous periods in Chinese history. /n The performance includes a variety of traditional Chinese instruments and costumes, providing a fascinating insight into the country's cultural heritage. The theatre itself is beautifully decorated, with traditional Chinese architecture and design. Whether you're a fan of music and dance or just looking to experience Chinese culture, Tang Dynasty Theatre is a must-visit.

Tang Dynasty Theatre offers a cultural performance of traditional Chinese music and dance.

Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Xian, China, a city that served as the ancient capital for 13 dynasties. Marvel at the world-renowned Terracotta Army, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing thousands of life-sized soldier statues built over 2,000 years ago. Explore the ancient city walls, the largest and best-preserved in China, offering panoramic views of the city. Visit the bustling Muslim Quarter, a hub of local cuisine and traditional markets. Don't miss the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a symbol of the city's great historical significance. Xian also offers a variety of museums, temples, and natural beauty, including the stunning Mount Huashan. Experience the fusion of ancient and modern China in Xian.

Terracotta Army

Big Wild Goose Pagoda

City Wall

Start your day with a visit to the Terracotta Army, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This archaeological site features thousands of life-sized soldiers, horses, and chariots that were buried with China's first emperor. It's a fascinating glimpse into ancient Chinese history and culture.

Enjoy a traditional Shaanxi lunch. Try the local specialty, Yangrou Paomo, a mutton soup served with flatbread. Also, don't miss out on the delicious Biang Biang noodles.

After lunch, head to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a Buddhist pagoda that dates back to the Tang Dynasty. It's a peaceful place to stroll and soak up the atmosphere.

For dinner, explore the Muslim Quarter, known for its bustling food scene. Here, you can try a variety of street foods, from spicy skewers to sweet pastries.

End your day with a stroll around the ancient City Wall. The wall, which is beautifully lit up at night, offers stunning views of the city.

Exploring Ancient History and Local Cuisine

Shaanxi History Museum

Begin your second day with a visit to the Shaanxi History Museum. This museum houses a vast collection of artifacts from the province's long history, including items from the prehistoric era to the Qing Dynasty.

Have lunch at a local restaurant, where you can try Guokui, a type of flatbread filled with meat or vegetables.

Spend the afternoon exploring the Bell and Drum Towers, two of the city's most iconic landmarks. These towers were used to tell time during the Ming Dynasty.

Dine in a local restaurant, where you can try some traditional Chinese dishes like Peking Duck or Kung Pao Chicken.

In the evening, enjoy a traditional Tang Dynasty Show, which includes music, dance, and colorful costumes.

Immersing in Cultural Landmarks and Traditional Performances

Mount Huashan

Huaqing Hot Springs

Great Mosque of Xi'an

Start your final day with a hike up Mount Huashan, one of China's five sacred mountains. The mountain offers breathtaking views and a thrilling hiking experience.

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at the top of the mountain. Be sure to include some local snacks like Roujiamo (Chinese hamburger) and Liangpi (cold skin noodles).

After descending the mountain, relax in the Huaqing Hot Springs, which were once used by emperors and their concubines.

For your final dinner, indulge in a hot pot meal, a popular Chinese dish where you cook your own ingredients in a pot of simmering broth.

End your trip with a visit to the Great Mosque of Xi'an, one of the oldest and most renowned mosques in the country. Its architecture is a blend of Chinese and Islamic styles.

Adventurous Hiking and Relaxing Hot Springs

Note: despite its size, all of china falls within 1 time zone

UTC+8

Xian has a rapidly expanding metro system that currently consists of 4 lines. It's a convenient and efficient way to travel around the city, with stops at many of the main attractions, including the Bell Tower, Drum Tower, and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda.

Xian's bus system is extensive, covering almost every corner of the city. It's a cost-effective way to get around, especially for short distances. Buses are often crowded during peak hours, but they run frequently.

Xian is a bike-friendly city with many dedicated bike lanes and bike-sharing programs. It's a great way to explore the city at your own pace, especially within the city walls where distances are short and the terrain is flat.

Taxis are readily available in Xian and can be hailed on the street or booked through a hotel. They're metered and relatively inexpensive, making them a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're traveling in a group or have a lot of luggage.

Ridesharing services like Didi Chuxing (the Chinese equivalent of Uber) are popular in Xian. They're often cheaper than taxis and can be booked through a smartphone app. Note that you'll need a Chinese phone number and payment method to use these services.

For a more comfortable and flexible travel experience, you can hire a private car with a driver. This is a good option if you plan to visit attractions outside the city, like the Terracotta Army.

Many of Xian's attractions are located within the city walls, making it a walkable city. Walking is a great way to explore the city's historic streets and soak up the local atmosphere.

Xian offers several sightseeing bus routes that stop at major tourist attractions. These buses are a convenient way to see the city's highlights, especially if you're short on time.

Xian Xianyang International Airport is located about 40km from the city center. There are regular shuttle buses that connect the airport with several locations in the city, including the Xian Railway Station and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda.

A mutton soup served with bread. It is a traditional dish in Xian and is considered a must-try for visitors.

Yangrou Paomo

Often referred to as the Chinese hamburger, Roujiamo is a street food staple in Xian. It consists of stewed pork or beef served in a freshly baked bun.

Roujiamo

These are one of the most popular types of noodles in Xian. They are thick, wide, and served with a variety of toppings.

Biang Biang Mian

A cold noodle dish that is a popular street food in Xian. It is typically served with cucumber, bean sprouts, and a spicy sauce.

Liángpí

A steamed rice cake that is a traditional dessert in Xian. It is often filled with sweet red bean paste.

Jing Gao

These are soup-filled dumplings that are a specialty in Xian. They are typically filled with mutton or beef and a rich broth.

Guantang Baozi

A traditional sausage from the Shaanxi province, where Xian is located. It is typically made with pork and a variety of spices.

Shaanxi Sausage

A traditional noodle dish from Qishan, a county in the Shaanxi province. It is known for its sour and spicy flavor.

Qishan Saozi Mian

A popular summer dish in Xian, these cold noodles are typically served with a spicy and tangy sauce.

Shaanxi Cold Noodles

A type of Chinese stuffed pancake. It is a popular street food in Xian and can be filled with a variety of ingredients.

Xian Bing

A traditional dish from Hanzhong, a city in the Shaanxi province. It is made from rice and served with a variety of toppings.

Hanzhong Rice Skin

A traditional fermented rice wine from the Shaanxi province. It is sweet and often served warm.

Shaanxi Laozao

New Year's Day

New Year's Holiday

Spring Festival Eve

Lunar New Year

Spring Festival Golden Week holiday

International Women's Day

Qing Ming Jie

Labour Day Holiday

Labour Day

Youth Day

Dragon Boat Festival

Dragon Boat Festival holiday

Mid-Autumn Festival

National Day

National Day Golden Week holiday

One of China's five great mountains, known for its steep and narrow paths.

Huashan Mountain

A collection of terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China.

The joint tomb of the Western Han Dynasty Emperor Liu Qi and his Empress, Wang.

Hanyangling Mausoleum

A Buddhist temple that holds the finger bone of the Sakyamuni Buddha.

Famen Temple

The tomb of the Tang dynasty Emperor Gaozong and his wife, Empress Wu Zetian.

Qianling Mausoleum

A notable mountain in China, known for its hot springs and the location of the tomb of the First Qin Emperor.

Mount Li

Beijing

Shanghai

The Great Wall of China

Terracotta army soldiers in the tomb of Qin Shi Huang

Ziyun tower, the main building in the Tang Paradise theme park

Xian is a city with a rich history, being one of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China. It served as the capital for 13 dynasties over 1,100 years.

The local language is Mandarin, but English is not widely spoken. It's recommended to learn a few basic phrases or have a translation app handy.

The currency used in Xian is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). Credit cards are accepted in many places, but it's always good to have some cash on hand.

Xian has a continental monsoon climate, with hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters. Average summer temperatures range from 77-91°F (25-33°C) and winter temperatures can drop to 28-44°F (-2-7°C).

Xian is known for its delicious street food. Be sure to try local specialties like Biang Biang noodles, Roujiamo (Chinese hamburger), and Yangrou Paomo (mutton soup with bread).

Tipping is not customary in China, and in some places, it may even be considered rude.

Public transportation is very efficient in Xian. The city has an extensive bus network and a metro system. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Didi are also available.

Internet censorship is prevalent in China. Popular western websites and social media platforms like Google, Facebook, and Twitter are blocked. Consider getting a VPN before your trip.

Xian is in the China Standard Time zone, which is 8 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+8).

Tap water in Xian is not safe to drink. Always drink bottled water and avoid ice in your drinks.

Xian is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

Public restrooms in Xian often do not provide toilet paper, so it's a good idea to carry some with you.

The voltage in China is 220V, 50Hz AC. The plug types are Type A, C, and I. You may need a power adapter.

Xian has strict smoking regulations. Smoking is banned in all indoor public places, workplaces, and on public transportation.

Healthcare facilities in Xian are adequate, but it's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation.

Xian is a very pedestrian-friendly city with many pedestrian-only streets and zones. However, traffic can be chaotic, so always be cautious when crossing the road.

It's considered impolite to touch someone's head in China. Also, avoid pointing directly with your finger, instead use your whole hand.

The Chinese government requires all foreigners to register their place of residence within 24 hours of arrival. If you're staying at a hotel, they will usually do this for you.

Xian has a high population density, so be prepared for crowds, especially during peak travel seasons.

If you're planning to shop, remember that bargaining is common in local markets. However, it's not accepted in malls or larger stores.

January is the coldest month in Xian, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a quiet time for tourism, so you'll have the city's attractions to yourself.

February sees a slight increase in temperature but it's still quite chilly. The Chinese New Year celebrations can make this a vibrant time to visit.

March marks the beginning of spring in Xian, with temperatures starting to warm up. The city's parks and gardens begin to bloom, making it a beautiful time to visit.

April is a pleasant month to visit Xian, with mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine. The city's cherry blossoms are in full bloom, adding to the city's charm.

May is a warm and comfortable month in Xian, perfect for outdoor activities. The city's ancient walls and terracotta warriors are a must-see.

June is the start of summer in Xian, with temperatures rising significantly. It's a great time to visit the city's outdoor attractions, but be prepared for occasional rain showers.

July is the hottest month in Xian, with temperatures often exceeding 30 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit if you don't mind the heat, but be prepared for occasional thunderstorms.

August is still quite hot in Xian, but temperatures start to decrease slightly. It's a great time to visit the city's historical sites, but be prepared for occasional rain showers.

September marks the beginning of autumn in Xian, with temperatures starting to cool down. The city's parks and gardens are particularly beautiful during this time.

October is a comfortable month to visit Xian, with mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine. The city's ancient walls and terracotta warriors are a must-see.

November sees a significant drop in temperature, with the onset of winter. It's a quiet time for tourism, so you'll have the city's attractions to yourself.

December is a cold month in Xian, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a quiet time for tourism, but the city's Christmas celebrations can make it a vibrant time to visit.

When visiting Xian, China, it's important to understand that the city experiences a temperate monsoon climate, with four distinct seasons. 

Spring (March to May) is generally mild, but it can still be chilly in the early part of the season, with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 70°F (4°C to 21°C). It's a good idea to pack layers to accommodate the fluctuating temperatures. 

Summer (June to August) in Xian can be hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching up to 90°F (32°C). It's also the rainy season, so don't forget to pack an umbrella or raincoat. 

Autumn (September to November) is arguably the best time to visit Xian. The weather is comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C), and the city is beautifully adorned with autumn foliage. 

Winter (December to February) can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping as low as 20°F (-6°C). Snow is not uncommon during this time, so be sure to pack warm clothing and sturdy shoes. 

Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip to ensure you're packing appropriately. Also, remember that air quality can vary, so consider bringing a mask if you're sensitive to pollution. 

Lastly, keep in mind that Xian is a city rich in history and culture. Regardless of the weather, there are always plenty of indoor attractions to explore, such as the Terracotta Army Museum, the Shaanxi History Museum, and the Xian City Wall.

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3-Day Solo Adventure: Xian Sightseeing, Cuisine & Thrills for Locals

About Xian, China