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Explore the rich history of Shaanxi through the museum’s impressive collection of ancient artifacts, including bronze vessels, pottery, and relics from the Tang Dynasty. Take your time to admire the detailed exhibitions of ancient Chinese history, the Silk Road, and the Terracotta Army. Don't miss the special exhibitions and the opportunity to photograph the impressive architecture of the museum itself.
The Shaanxi History Museum, located at No. 91 , Xiaozhai East Road, Yanta District, Xi'an , is a comprehensive history museum and the first large-scale national museum in China with modern facilities. It is known as the " Pearl of the Ancient Capital and the Treasure House of China " .
The museum's exterior deliberately emphasizes the grandeur of the Tang Dynasty. It comprises a cluster of buildings in a Tang-style design, with a central hall and towering towers at the four corners . The layout features a symmetrical axis, with a central hall and towering towers at the four corners . It combines the classical architectural style of the Tang Dynasty with modern museum functions, blending the architectural styles of ancient Chinese palaces and courtyards.
The Shaanxi History Museum houses a collection of over 370,000 cultural relics , ranging from simple stone tools used by ancient humans in their early stages to various artifacts used in social life before 1840 , spanning a period of more than one million years.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
free
March 15th - November 14th : 9:00-17 : 30
November 15th - March 14th : 8: 30-18 : 00
Closed on Mondays
The Shaanxi History Museum is one of the largest and most comprehensive museums in China. It showcases the history and culture of the Shaanxi region, which is considered the cradle of Chinese civilization. The museum’s artifacts date back to the prehistoric era and cover significant historical periods, including the Zhou, Qin, Han, and Tang dynasties, which were vital in the development of Chinese culture.
The museum is located on the west side of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda in Xi'an, Shaanxi Province. You can take the metro Line 3 to the "Shaanxi History Museum" station, or alternatively, take a taxi from the city center. The museum is within walking distance from the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and the Xi'an Botanical Garden.
The Shaanxi History Museum is typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late afternoon on weekdays to avoid the crowds. Weekends tend to be busier, especially during holidays, so plan your visit accordingly.
Entrance to the museum is free, but tickets are required for special exhibitions. Tickets can be obtained at the museum entrance or online, through the official museum website or other local ticketing platforms.
It is not mandatory to book tickets in advance for the general admission, as the museum is free to visit. However, if you want to visit special exhibitions, it’s recommended to book tickets at least a few days in advance to ensure availability.
It typically takes around 2 to 3 hours to explore the main exhibits. If you are interested in special exhibitions or taking a detailed tour, you may want to allocate additional time.
The must-see highlights include the Bronze Gallery, the Tang Dynasty Gallery, and the exhibits showcasing the Silk Road artifacts. The Terracotta Warriors section is also a major attraction. The museum’s architecture, modeled after traditional Chinese palaces, is another highlight worth admiring.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, and audio guides can be rented for a fee in several languages, including English. It’s recommended to book audio guides in advance if you are visiting during peak times.
The best photography spots are inside the main exhibition halls, especially when showcasing the large-scale sculptures and ancient artifacts. The museum’s exterior architecture is also worth capturing, particularly the grand central hall and the surrounding park area.
Start by visiting the permanent exhibitions in chronological order, beginning with the prehistoric exhibits and moving through the major dynasties like Zhou, Qin, Han, and Tang. Be sure to leave time for the Silk Road exhibits and the Terracotta Warriors section, which are highlights of the museum.
Currently, the Shaanxi History Museum does not offer night visits or light shows. Special tours are available during the day, but it’s best to check for any seasonal or special events in advance.
The museum can get crowded, especially during weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit during weekdays, particularly in the morning before 11:00 AM or after 3:00 PM in the afternoon.
The museum offers toilets, drinking water stations, and rest areas throughout the building. There are also souvenir shops inside and nearby cafes and restaurants where you can relax after exploring.
The museum is fully accessible for elderly visitors, children, and disabled guests, with elevators, ramps, and wheelchair access available. Wheelchairs can be borrowed at the information desk.
Both cash and mobile payments (like Alipay or WeChat Pay) are accepted at the museum’s entrance, shops, and cafes. Credit cards are also commonly accepted in most areas.
There are a few cafes inside the museum where you can grab a snack or drink. Nearby, you can find a variety of restaurants offering both local Xi'an cuisine and international options.
Yes, Xi'an is known for offering a wide range of vegetarian and halal food options, especially around the mosque and Muslim Quarter. Some nearby restaurants and cafes also cater to vegetarian and halal diets.
There are several hotels near the Shaanxi History Museum, including mid-range and luxury options. Popular choices include the Grand Park Xi'an and the Shangri-La Hotel, both of which are located near the museum and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda.
Nearby attractions include the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Xi'an City Wall, and the Forest of Stone Steles Museum. The Muslim Quarter is also close by, offering a glimpse of Xi'an’s cultural diversity and a place to enjoy street food.
The museum has several souvenir shops where you can purchase replicas of ancient artifacts, traditional Chinese crafts, and books about the history of the Shaanxi region. Local handicrafts like Terracotta Warrior replicas are also popular souvenirs.
The museum is well-connected by public transport, including metro Line 3 and taxis. If you want to continue your trip, consider taking a taxi to other Xi'an attractions like the Terracotta Warriors or the Muslim Quarter. Buses and private tours are also available for longer trips.
