XI’AN
Xi’an is the ancient heart of China, a former capital where thirteen dynasties ruled. It stands as the start of the Silk Road and a testament to China’s staggering imperial past.
This city blends iconic historical treasures, like the Terracotta Army, with a vibrant modern life and a unique, deep-rooted mix of Central Asian and Chinese cultures.
Most Popular Attractions
Archaeological Wonders & UNESCO Sites
Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum (Terracotta Army): An archaeological site featuring thousands of life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots, guarding the tomb of China’s first emperor.
Xi’an City Wall (Fortifications of Xi’an): One of the oldest and best-preserved city walls in China, offering panoramic views and a popular cycling route around the central city.
Giant Wild Goose Pagoda (Dayan Ta): A majestic seven-story pagoda built in the Tang Dynasty to house Buddhist scriptures brought back from India by the monk Xuanzang.
Small Wild Goose Pagoda (Xiaoyan Ta): A more tranquil and lesser-known pagoda showcasing classic Tang dynasty architecture and home to the Xi’an Museum.
Banpo Neolithic Village (Banpo Relic Site): The preserved remains of a Neolithic settlement dating back about 6,000 years, offering a glimpse into ancient Chinese village life.
Historical City Core & Religious Sites
Bell Tower of Xi’an: The geographical center of the city and a grand wooden structure famous for its nightly illumination and historical significance.
Drum Tower of Xi’an: Located near the Bell Tower, housing a collection of large drums and marking the entrance to the famous Muslim Quarter.
Great Mosque of Xi’an: One of the oldest and most beautiful mosques in China, notable for its unique fusion of traditional Chinese and Islamic architectural styles.
Muslim Quarter (Huimin Jie): A vibrant, bustling historic district famous for its Halal street food, markets, and unique cultural atmosphere.
Forest of Stone Steles Museum (Beilin Museum): A repository of calligraphic art and historical documents carved into over 3,000 stone tablets.
Shuyuanmen Cultural Street: A traditional-style street near the Bell Tower filled with shops selling calligraphy, paintings, ink brushes, and souvenirs.
Guanzhong Folk Art Museum: An extensive collection of local folk art and architecture, including ancient gates and residences moved from the countryside.
Museums & Dynastic Collections
Shaanxi History Museum: Considered one of China’s most important museums, it houses a vast collection of artifacts illustrating the region’s 3,000-year history as a center of Chinese civilization.
Han Yang Ling Museum (Mausoleum of Emperor Jingdi): An underground museum dedicated to the tomb of a Han Dynasty emperor, famous for its miniature armies of eunuchs, animals, and soldiers.
Xi’an Museum: Houses more than 130,000 cultural artifacts, located adjacent to the Small Wild Goose Pagoda.
Shaanxi Archaeology Museum: A modern facility showcasing the latest archaeological discoveries and preservation efforts in the province.
Shaanxi Province & Natural Wonders
Mount Hua (Huashan): One of China’s Five Great Mountains, known for its sheer cliffs, steep paths, and breathtaking views, popular for challenging hikes.
Huaqing Palace (Hua Qing Chi): A historic hot spring complex and imperial resort known for its beautiful gardens and as the romantic setting for a famous Tang Dynasty love story.
Famen Temple: Located outside Xi’an, this Buddhist temple is famous for housing a relic believed to be a finger bone of the Gautama Buddha.
Datang Everbright City: A massive, modern pedestrian area with Tang Dynasty-style architecture, famous for its illuminated displays, street performances, and vibrant nightlife.
Tang Paradise (Datang Furong Yuan): A large cultural theme park that meticulously recreates the architecture and gardens of the glorious Tang Dynasty.
Daming Palace National Heritage Park: The site of the main royal palace of the Tang Dynasty, now a sprawling park with archaeological remains and exhibition halls.
Tomb of Emperor Hanwu (Maoling Mausoleum): The largest of the Western Han dynasty imperial tombs, located near Xingping.
Activities & Experiences
Marvel at the Terracotta Army: Visit the Museum of Qin Terracotta Warriors and Horses, one of the greatest archaeological finds in the world, to see the thousands of life-sized clay soldiers guarding the tomb of China’s first Emperor.
Cycle the Ancient City Wall: Rent a bicycle (or a tandem) and ride along the top of the well-preserved Ming Dynasty city wall (13.7 km long) for panoramic views of the old city and the modern metropolis.
Dive into Street Food at the Muslim Quarter (Huimin Street): Explore this vibrant area, the heart of the Hui Muslim community, for a culinary adventure trying local specialties like Roujiamo (Chinese hamburger), Yangrou Paomo (lamb bread stew), and skewers.
Attend a Tang Dynasty Show: Experience the culture of China’s Golden Age through a spectacular music and dance performance, often accompanied by a traditional dumpling banquet dinner.
Climb the Big Wild Goose Pagoda: Visit this significant Buddhist structure from the 7th century, built to house scriptures brought back from India via the Silk Road. Stay to see the massive musical fountain show in the evening.
Explore the Great Mosque of Xi’an: Wander through one of the oldest and best-preserved mosques in China, which beautifully blends traditional Chinese temple architecture with Islamic design.
Hike the Perilous Mount Hua (Huashan): Take a day trip to one of China’s five sacred mountains, famous for its steep cliffs, breathtaking views, and challenging plank walk (Note: Recommended for adventurous travelers).
Learn a Traditional Craft: Participate in a hands-on workshop to learn local folk arts such as Terracotta Warrior Sculpting, Paper Cutting, or Chinese Calligraphy.
Wander through the Bell and Drum Towers: Visit these iconic Ming Dynasty structures in the city center, which are beautifully illuminated at night, marking the historical heart of Xi’an.
Explore the Hanyangling Museum (Tomb of Emperor Jingdi): Visit this lesser-crowded but equally fascinating Han Dynasty tomb complex where you can walk on glass floors above the excavation pits displaying thousands of miniature terracotta figures.
Stroll the Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City: Experience a modern, pedestrian zone built in the style of the Tang Dynasty, particularly lively and spectacular at night with light displays and street performances.
Local Tips & Transport
Metro is Your Best Friend: Xi’an’s subway system is modern, fast, and affordable, with English signage. It’s the most efficient way to travel to major city sights like the Bell Tower, Drum Tower, and Giant Wild Goose Pagoda.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing (Didi): Taxis are readily available, but for maximum convenience, download a ride-hailing app like Didi (China’s Uber/Lyft). This can be easier for communication, especially if you don’t speak Mandarin.
Getting to the Terracotta Army: The Terracotta Army is located outside the city. The most common and affordable way is the Tourist Bus Line 5 (306) from the Xi’an Railway Station (not North Station). Alternatively, a Didi or private car offers more comfort and speed.
Bikes on the City Wall: You can rent bikes at the main gates of the City Wall (e.g., South Gate/Yongningmen). It takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to cycle the entire circuit at a comfortable pace.
Book Museum Tickets in Advance: Many of the top attractions, especially the Shaanxi History Museum and sometimes even the Terracotta Army, require you to book tickets in advance online (often via WeChat mini-programs or official websites), and they may sell out. Check reservation policies early.
Embrace the Noodle Culture: Xi’an is the unofficial “Noodle Capital” of China. Go beyond the Muslim Quarter to try local specialties like Biangbiang Noodles (thick, belt-like noodles), You Po Mian (hot oil noodles), and cold noodles (Liangpi).
Early Bird Gets the View at the Warriors: To avoid massive tour groups and experience the Terracotta Army with fewer crowds, aim to arrive right when the museum opens (typically 8:30 AM).
Payment is Mobile-First: China is a largely cashless society. While major hotels and large stores accept international credit cards, street vendors and small shops primarily use WeChat Pay or Alipay. Have these apps set up before you arrive, or carry a small amount of cash (RMB) for minor purchases and buses.
Dress Code for Religious Sites: When visiting mosques (like the Great Mosque) and Buddhist temples, it is considered polite to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.
Hidden Gems:
- Small Wild Goose Pagoda & Xi’an Museum: A quieter, more intimate version of the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda complex, offering a peaceful retreat and a great local museum.
- Shuyuanmen Street: A traditional-style street near the South Gate, famous for Chinese calligraphy, ink stones, and art supplies—a much calmer shopping experience than the Muslim Quarter.
- Gao Family Courtyard: A 400-year-old traditional private mansion in the city center offering a glimpse into Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture and sometimes hosting folk performances like a traditional shadow puppet show.
Top Restaurants
Fan Ji Roujiamo (樊记腊汁肉夹馍) [$3-$7] – A century-old spot (since 1925) famous for its Roujiamo (Chinese hamburger) with succulent, stewed pork and a crisp, oven-baked bun. A must-try Xi’an staple.
Tongshengxiang (同盛祥) [$8-$15] – A century-old Halal restaurant (est. 1920) near the Bell Tower, renowned for its authentic beef and mutton Yangrou Paomo (pita bread soaked in savory soup).
Chun Fa Sheng (春发生) [$8-$15] – Another historic eatery (since 1920) specializing in Hulutou Paomo, a local variation of Paomo made with pork chitterlings in a rich broth.
Liuxin Niuyangrou Xiaochao Paomo (刘信牛羊肉泡馍) [$5-$12] – Highly regarded by locals for its Xiaochao Paomo (spicy stir-fried Paomo), a bolder and more flavorful version of the classic soup dish.
Maguangrong Paomo (麻光荣泡馍) [$5-$12] – A hidden gem and local favorite, highly praised for its rich broth and quality mutton in its traditional Yangrou Paomo.
Shengzhiwang Majiang Niangpi (盛志望麻酱酿皮铺) [$2-$5] – Famous for its Liangpi (cold skin noodles) dressed in a savory sesame sauce, chili oil, and vinegar. Excellent for a refreshing, spicy snack.
Jia San Halal Soup Dumplings (贾三清真灌汤包子馆) [$5-$10] – A very popular spot, known for its juicy, soup-filled beef or mutton Guantang Baozi (steamed dumplings) in the Muslim Quarter.
Dingjia Xiaosurou (定家小酥肉) [$5-$10] – Famous for its Xiaosurou (steamed crispy-fried beef or lamb in a bowl) that is soft, tender, and often served with flatbread.
Qinyu Roujiamo Restaurant (秦豫肉夹馍) [$3-$6] – A small, famous spot for a traditional, meaty Roujiamo, often recommended for its high-quality braised pork.
Lao Liujia Biangbiang Mian (老李家Biangbiang面) [$4-$8] – A very popular noodle shop known for serving authentic Biangbiang Mian, the wide, belt-like noodles tossed with a savory, spicy sauce.
Liu Laosi Niurou Gan Mian Zhuang (刘老四牛肉擀面庄) [$4-$8] – A local go-to for Biangbiang Mian and other hand-pulled noodles, praised for its chewy texture and authentic flavor.
Zhiliang Guantang Jiaozi (志亮灌汤饺子) [$4-$7] – A popular spot in the Muslim Quarter for flavorful, soup-filled Guantang Jiaozi (dumplings).
Laodingjia Jianbing (老丁家煎饼) [$2-$4] – A vendor or stall specializing in authentic Jianbing, a savory Chinese crepe often eaten for breakfast or as a street snack.
Majia Fenzhengrou Hundun (马家粉蒸肉馄炖) [$5-$10] – A local favorite specializing in Fenzhengrou (Muslim-style steamed beef or lamb with glutinous rice flour).
Su Ji (苏记川菜) [$4-$10] – While its specialty is Sichuan noodles, it’s a popular, inexpensive spot for a quick, flavorful meal like Tiao Shui Yu (Sichuan fish dish).
Weijia Liangpi (魏家凉皮) [$3-$6] – A ubiquitous and popular chain known for its reliable and fast Liangpi and Roujiamo.
Xi’an Restaurant (西安饭庄) [$15-$30] – A historic and authoritative institution (since 1929) for authentic, high-quality Shaanxi banquet cuisine, including the famous Hulu Chicken.
First Noodle under the Sun (天下第一面) [$6-$15] – Known for its massive bowls of various Shaanxi noodles, including the iconic Biangbiang Mian.
Zui Chang’an (醉长安) [$15-$30] – A popular spot known for authentic Shaanxi classics served in a comfortable and well-decorated environment.
China Folk’s Restaurant (中国民间菜馆) [$15-$30] – A chain that blends Shaanxi cuisine with local cultural elements, offering a unique dining experience.
Guanzhong Memory Theme Restaurant (关中记忆主题餐厅) [$10-$20] – A themed restaurant focusing on traditional Guanzhong (central Shaanxi) cuisine and snacks, popular for its wide variety.
Hui Wen Ren Jia (惠文人家) [$10-$20] – A long-standing local favorite for traditional Halal food, particularly known for its Paomo.
Xian Roast Duck Shop (西安烤鸭店) [$20-$40] – A well-regarded spot for roast duck, offering a Xi’an take on the classic dish that many locals prefer over the Beijing style.
Chang’an Hui · Original Shaanxi Cuisine (长安荟·原味陕菜) [$25-$45] – Offers an authentic Shaanxi dining experience with a modern, refined edge.
Weizhuoyin (味拙隐) [$20-$40] – Known for creative fusion Shaanxi cuisine, with one branch featuring a rooftop garden and views of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda.
13 Fen Xiang restaurant (13芬湘) [$20-$35] – A Shaanxi restaurant highly frequented by locals, known for a modern approach to regional dishes like the classic Hulu Chicken.
LOTUS RESTAURANT (莲花餐馆) [$25-$45] – Established in 1992, this spot offers a blend of creative and traditional Shaanxi cuisine, known for using fresh, local ingredients.
奔跑吧陕菜·盛世长安 [$20-$35] – A restaurant known for creative twists and modern presentations of traditional Shaanxi cuisine.
Shadow of Candle (烛影) [$30-$50] – Offers refined and creative cuisine, often a fusion of styles, with stunning views of the city from the 15th floor.
XIAO CHANGAN (小长安) [$40-$70] – Known for exquisite, modern Shaanxi cuisine presented with a contemporary aesthetic and focus on high-quality ingredients.
Jiumu Guifei Zui Jiu (久沐·贵妃醉酒) [$20-$40] – Features classic Shaanxi cuisine in an ancient-style decor, evoking the charm of the Tang Dynasty.
Kingtown No.1 Xi’an Cook Shop (金城一号西安小厨) [$20-$40] – A local favorite of over 20 years, offering well-executed Shaanxi and Northwest China cuisine.
The Thirteen Dynasties Restaurant (十三王朝餐厅) [$30-$55] – Features an innovative fusion of specialty Shaanxi cuisine, often with views of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda.
Wei (W Xi’an) (渭) [$60-$100] – Located in the W Hotel, this fine dining restaurant offers high-quality Shaanxi-inspired and international cuisine with excellent service and presentation.
The Westin Xi’an – Mai (舞) [$50-$80] – While primarily Japanese, it’s considered a high-quality, refined dining experience within a luxury hotel setting.
Five Zen5es (五斗米) [$50-$90] – Located in The Westin Xi’an, offering refined Northwest China cuisine in an elegant setting.
The Fifty · seven [$70-$120] – Offers exquisite Western cuisine and panoramic views from a high floor, ideal for a luxurious, non-local dining experience.
US’PRIME 1885 STEAK HOUSE [$50-$90] – An upscale Western steakhouse offering international steak dishes and views of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda.
CHAR (炭) [$80-$150] – A high-end Western restaurant inside the InterContinental Hotel, known for its premium ingredients and panoramic city views.
Sajinqiao Night Market (洒金桥) [$1-$10] – Not a single restaurant, but a long alley (Sajinqiao) of food stalls popular with locals for authentic, less-touristy Hui Muslim snacks like Suantang Jiaozi (sour and spicy dumplings) and Yangrou Xiaochao Paomo.
Yong Xing Fang (永兴坊) [$5-$15] – An outdoor cultural block focused on showcasing traditional Shaanxi provincial food in a themed setting, great for sampling many regional specialties like Qishan Minced Noodles and different styles of Roujiamo.
Dongxin Street Night Market (东新街夜市) [$2-$10] – A lively, expansive night market featuring a rich variety of street snacks from Shaanxi and across China, including spicy skewers and liangpi.
Muslim Quarter (Huimin Jie) Side Alleys (回民街小巷) [$2-$8] – Beyond the main tourist thoroughfare, the smaller adjacent alleys like Dapiyuan are more popular with locals for authentic Hui snacks like Fen Zheng Rou and various kebabs (Kao Rou Chuan).
Liu Xiang Mian (柳巷面) [$4-$8] – A popular hole-in-the-wall noodle shop slightly outside the main tourist area, famous for its namesake Liuxiangmian.
Er’naisi Big Plate Chicken (尔奈斯大盘鸡) [$10-$20 per dish] – A spot known for Dapanji (Big Plate Chicken), a hearty and flavorful stew with potatoes and noodles, common in Northwest China.
De Fa Chang (德发长) [$15-$30] – A famous, historic restaurant known for its exquisite Dumpling Banquet (Jiaozi Banquet), offering a huge variety of artfully crafted dumplings.
Haidilao Hot Pot (海底捞火锅) [$20-$40] – A popular, well-known chain for high-quality Hot Pot with excellent service, offering a different, interactive culinary experience.
Gongyuanzhai Mijia Paomo (国源斋米家泡馍) [$5-$12] – A well-regarded Paomo spot often favored by locals for its authentic taste.
Jianji Paomo (建记泡馍) [$5-$12] – Established in 1982, this spot is a local favorite known for its quality and clean dining environment for Yangrou Paomo.
Gaojia Courtyard (高家大院) [$15-$25] – An old private mansion that hosts dinner and a show, sometimes featuring local specialties alongside traditional Shaanxi performances.
Laosunjia Paomo (老孙家饭庄) [$15-$30] – A reputable Halal restaurant known for its reliable Yangrou Paomo and other Muslim-style dishes.
The One Restaurant&Bar [$50-$90] – A Western-style restaurant and bar with a terrace offering romantic sunset views, a unique option for non-local cuisine in Xi’an.
DONG YA HOTEL (东亚饭店) [$25-$45] – A restaurant in a hotel with a century of heritage, offering Shanghai cuisine with a panoramic view of the Bell Tower.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Park Qin: Located near the South Gate (Nanmen), this popular hostel bar has a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere that is often frequented by both locals and foreigners. It’s a great spot to start the evening with reasonably priced drinks.
The Craic Irish Pub: Situated in the Gaoxin District (a bit out of the way from the center), this pub is known for its strong Western/expat following, friendly vibe, and a good selection of imported beers and simple cocktails.
Vice Versa: Found in the alleys a bit further east along the City Wall from the South Gate, this is considered one of the cooler, slightly hidden bars in the area, offering a relaxed environment for drinks and conversation.
Meeting Jazz: Positioned near the popular bar area around the South Gate, this bar is well-known for featuring live music, primarily jazz, and attracts a slightly older, sophisticated Chinese crowd (25-35 years old).
Near Wall Bar: Located right next to the City Wall near the South Gate, this spot is a local favorite, especially known for its microbrewery beer selection, though it also offers standard mixed drinks.
Red Oak Bar & Bistro: Found in the trendy Gaoxin Coffee Street area, this establishment provides a cozy, bistro setting perfect for an intimate evening, offering a mix of drinks and dining options.
Play House (Xi’an Playhouse): One of the largest and most famous high-energy nightclubs in Xi’an. It’s known for massive light shows, big-name DJs, and playing commercial house, pop, and electronic music.
Muse Club: A prominent, high-end Chinese-style nightclub, featuring bottle service, a large dance floor, and popular Chinese and international dance hits.
JAR (Just A Regular) Techno Club: A dedicated techno club, an uncommon find in Xi’an, located near the City Wall or in an underground space. It is known for its regular techno nights and attracting a dedicated following of electronic music enthusiasts.
Provence Club: A well-known, large Chinese club in Xi’an, offering a standard high-energy clubbing experience with a focus on electronic and commercial music, popular with a young local crowd.
Space Club: Part of a popular club chain in China, this venue is known for its futuristic, high-tech interior, powerful sound system, and often hosts special events and popular DJs.
Boom Nightclub: A centrally located, large-scale club that draws big crowds for its lively atmosphere and mix of music, from Chinese pop to electronic dance.
MiNi Club (Defuxiang): One of the smaller, but lively clubs located directly on the Defuxiang Bar Street, offering a more intimate, yet still energetic, dancing experience right in the heart of the tourist bar area.
Show Club: Known for its extravagant performances and thematic nights, this venue provides a full-on entertainment and nightlife experience.
One Plus One (1+1 Club): A long-standing name in the Xi’an nightlife scene, known for its enduring popularity and mix of music genres, appealing to a broad demographic.