West Warehouse

Introducing Xicang

Xicang is located in Lianhu District, Xi'an, on the north side of the middle section of Miaohou Street in the northwest corner of the city. Historically a state warehouse, it is now home to Xi'an's famous flower, bird, fish, and insect market, which maintains its tradition of being open every Thursday and Sunday, known as the "Bird Market."

Visiting the stalls in Xicang is a daily routine for old Xi'an residents. The four alleys are densely packed with stalls, each located according to the category of goods sold. The eastern section of the North Alley is the Bird Market, where flagship goods gather; the western section is the Fish Market, where water plants sway and fish swim among them; the South Alley is mostly selling small gadgets and groceries; the West Alley sells pigeons and tricycles; and the East Alley is the Insect Market, with occasional stalls selling clothes, shoes and hats.

From underwear to antiques, every detail of daily life is covered here, including cats and dogs, bird cages, clever starlings learning to speak, miraculous acne removal skills, from food to drink, from pots and pans to flowers and trees, fish, birds, rats and rabbits to antiques and books. There is nothing that you can't think of that they don't sell. Although there are also a lot of fakes and clumsy works, it does not affect the fireworks of Xicang.

The Gao Family Courtyard has gone through a century of vicissitudes and is one of the most intact Han Chinese residential courtyards in Xi'an.

Climate and best time to travel

The temperate monsoon climate makes travel suitable all year round.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

1-2 hours

Tickets

No tickets required

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for West Warehouse

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The West Warehouse in Xi'an was built during the Tang Dynasty as a strategic storage facility for military supplies and grain. It played a vital role in supporting the military logistics of ancient China. The building is notable for its large size and strong preservation, showcasing the engineering techniques of its time.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The West Warehouse is located in the southern part of Xi'an. You can take a taxi or use public transport like buses to reach it from the city center. Walking to the site is also possible, but it might take 20-30 minutes depending on your location in Xi'an.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The West Warehouse is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or during weekdays to avoid crowds. Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather for visiting.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee to the West Warehouse is generally modest, with tickets available for purchase on-site. It's advisable to check for any discounts or special packages at the entrance. Online ticket booking might not be available, as most visitors buy tickets directly at the gate.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Generally, you do not need to book tickets in advance. However, if visiting during holidays or peak tourist seasons, it’s recommended to arrive early to avoid long lines.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You can explore the West Warehouse in about 1-1.5 hours, especially if you are interested in learning about its history and taking photos. If you prefer a more detailed exploration, plan for up to 2 hours.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The well-preserved storage rooms and architectural features of the West Warehouse building.
• Nearby gardens and areas where the warehouse’s strategic location is explained.
• Information plaques detailing the history and use of the warehouse during the Tang Dynasty.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available at the site, mainly in Chinese. Audio guides are usually available in Mandarin, though some sites in Xi'an might offer limited English options.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots include the exterior of the West Warehouse building and its surrounding gardens. The tall structure and serene environment provide excellent opportunities for photos, especially in the early morning light.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start by entering the main building and exploring its storage rooms and layout.
• Then, visit the adjacent gardens and informational plaques explaining the warehouse's historical importance.
• End your visit by taking a few photos from the exterior, particularly from the front or the sides for a full view of the structure.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not typically available at the West Warehouse. Special tours may be offered during holidays, but these are generally not available regularly.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The West Warehouse can get crowded on weekends and during peak tourist seasons, especially in the summer. Weekdays and early mornings are the least crowded times to visit.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are basic facilities such as public toilets available on-site. For food and water, you may want to visit local shops or restaurants in the surrounding area. The site also has some rest areas for visitors to take a break.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The West Warehouse is accessible to elderly visitors and children, although the site may have uneven paths. The attraction might not be fully wheelchair accessible, so it’s better to check for specific needs in advance.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is generally accepted, but mobile payment methods such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used. Cards are less commonly accepted, so it's best to rely on mobile payments or cash for small purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few restaurants and cafes near the West Warehouse, offering local Shaanxi cuisine. For more dining options, head to the city center of Xi'an where you'll find a wide range of restaurants.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, vegetarian and halal food options are available at various restaurants near the West Warehouse and in the city center of Xi'an.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Nearby accommodations include the Xi'an Grand New World Hotel and the Sheraton Xi'an Hotel. These are located within a short distance from the West Warehouse and offer easy access to the site and other attractions in Xi'an.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Ancient City Wall of Xi'an, a historical fortification offering great views of the city.
• The Big Wild Goose Pagoda, an iconic Buddhist temple located a short drive from the West Warehouse.
• The Bell Tower and Drum Tower in central Xi'an, both of which are must-see landmarks.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops around the West Warehouse and in the nearby areas sell traditional Chinese crafts, including miniature replicas of historical sites, calligraphy scrolls, and local pottery.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting the West Warehouse, taxis or public buses can easily take you to other sites in Xi'an, such as the Ancient City Wall or the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. If you plan to continue to other cities, the Xi'an Railway Station and Long-Distance Bus Station are accessible by taxi.