Introducing the Terracotta Army of Qin Shi Huang
The Terracotta Army of Xi'an, also known as the Terracotta Army of Qin Shihuang, is large in scale and of high artistic value, and is known as the "Eighth Wonder of the World".
The Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, where these figures are displayed, is located 1.5 kilometers east of the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor, at the northern foot of Mount Li. It is one of the accessory burial pits of the Mausoleum. Within the pits, tens of thousands of terracotta horses and bronze weapons can be seen, along with over a hundred wooden chariots. The largest of these is Pit No. 1. There are three pits in total, representing the imperial guards who guarded the mausoleum. Their distribution conforms to military principles. Pit No. 3, with the smallest number of figures, represents the commander-in-chief of the three armies.
Climate and best time to travel
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
Recommended play time: 2-3 hours
Tickets
Peak season : 150 yuan/person (March 1st to the end of November)
Off-season : 120 yuan/person (December 1st to the end of February of the following year)
Attraction opening hours
The ticket sales hours for the Qin Shi Huang Mausoleum Museum are:
March 16th-November 15th 8:30-17:00
November 16th-March 15th 8:30-16:30
The ticket checking hours for the Qin Shi Huang Mausoleum Museum are:
March 16th-November 15th 8:30-18:00
November 16th-March 15th 8:30-17:30
Most Popular FAQs for Terracotta Army of Qin Shi Huang
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
The Terracotta Army was created to accompany China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, in the afterlife (circa 210–209 BCE). It represents one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of the 20th century, showcasing ancient Chinese military organization, artistry, and funerary practices. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of China’s imperial history.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
- Location: Lintong District, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, approximately 40 km northeast of Xi’an city center.
- By bus: Direct buses from Xi’an Railway Station or city center to Terracotta Army Museum.
- By taxi: About 1 hour from central Xi’an.
- Walking: Extensive walking required inside the site; internal shuttle buses available.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- Opening hours: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (March–October), 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (November–February).
- Best times: Weekdays and early morning to avoid crowds; spring and autumn for pleasant weather.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
- Ticket price: Around ¥150–¥200 for adults; discounts for students, seniors, and children.
- Tickets can be purchased online through official websites, travel platforms like Ctrip, or at the entrance.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Booking in advance is recommended during weekends and Chinese national holidays, ideally 1–2 weeks ahead. Otherwise, tickets are available at the entrance.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
Allow 3–5 hours to explore the main pits, museum exhibits, and the surrounding archaeological site fully.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Pit 1: The largest pit with thousands of soldiers in battle formation.
- Pit 2: Features cavalry, chariots, and infantry in detailed arrangement.
- Pit 3: Smaller, believed to house the generals and command center.
- Museum exhibits: Ancient weapons, pottery, and excavation artifacts.
- Emperor Qin Shi Huang Mausoleum (viewing area).
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided tours are available in Chinese and English; audio guides can be rented on-site in multiple languages including English, Japanese, and French.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- Upper galleries overlooking the main pits for panoramic shots.
- Close-up views of unique figures with detailed expressions and armor.
- Exhibition halls with weapons and artifacts for museum-style photography.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Start with Pit 1 for the largest view.
- Proceed to Pit 2 and Pit 3 for cavalry and generals.
- Visit museum exhibits and artifact displays.
- Finish with the viewing area of the emperor’s mausoleum.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
No regular night visits; special tours are occasionally offered for VIP or educational groups. Check the official schedule in advance.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
- Crowded during weekends, Chinese holidays, and peak tourist season (spring and autumn).
- Weekdays and early mornings are least crowded.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- Restrooms located near each pit and museum areas.
- Snack stalls and small restaurants inside the complex.
- Souvenir shops selling replicas, books, and local crafts.
- Benches and shaded areas for resting throughout the site.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
Yes, most pathways are accessible; wheelchair rentals are available. Some areas may have uneven ground or stairs.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
Credit cards, Alipay, and WeChat Pay are widely accepted; cash is optional.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- On-site canteens and snack vendors.
- Nearby local restaurants in Lintong District offering Shaanxi cuisine.
- Cafes around the museum entrance area.
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Vegetarian options are available; halal restaurants are limited to nearby Xi’an city or Lintong District.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Grand Noble Hotel Xi’an Terracotta Army.
- Xi’an Qianjia Hotel.
- Various budget hotels and guesthouses in Lintong District.
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Emperor Qin Shi Huang Mausoleum.
- Hanyangling Mausoleum of Han Dynasty.
- Shaanxi History Museum and Xi’an City Wall (if traveling back to Xi’an city center).
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Miniature Terracotta Warrior replicas, books, postcards, and local crafts.
- Souvenir shops are located near entrances and exits of pits and museum areas.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Taxi or Didi back to Xi’an city center.
- Bus connections to Xi’an Railway Station.
- Private car rental for trips to other nearby mausoleums or attractions.
