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In recent years, various internet-famous words about Xi'an, such as "The Longest Day in Chang'an", "Setting Up the Stage", "The Little Lady of the Doll", "Bow-Bow Wine", "Stone Brother", "Brush Pastry", and "South Gate Theory", have emerged one after another, and Xi'an has become the first choice city for everyone to travel to!
However, Xi'an's profound historical heritage and the endless stream of internet celebrity-themed activities have given countless people a headache when making travel plans. They want to experience the profound history and culture, walk into the bustling streets and alleys, and follow the trend to check in at internet celebrity spots. How should they arrange it?
Today’s guide will help you solve your problems and follow the footsteps of the locals to get deeper into this city. How can you explore and have fun in Xi’an in a limited time?
Xi'ancheck the details
Xi'an is located in the central Guanzhong Plain, bordered by the Wei River to the north and the Qinling Mountains to the south. Eight rivers flow through Chang'an, making it a premier tourist destination in China. The Xi'an region boasts a wealth of cultural and tourism resources. The legacy of the brilliant Chinese culture has left a wealth of cultural relics and historical sites in the ancient city, earning it the nickname "a three-dimensional history museum." Xi'an's cultural relics and historical sites are not only rich and unique, but also systematic and complete, representing a microcosm of Chinese history. Their number, density, and quality rank among the highest in the country. Over ten thousand cultural relics and historical sites have been identified. Sites such as the Banpo Clan Society Ruins, the Terracotta Army of Qin Shi Huang, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, the Huaqing Hot Spring, the Forest of Steles, and the Ming City Wall all hold great value for tourism and research, renowned both domestically and internationally. The Mausoleum of the Yellow Emperor to the north of Xi'an, and the Maoling Mausoleum, Zhaoling Mausoleum, Qianling Mausoleum, and Famen Temple to the west are also must-see destinations for both domestic and international tourists.
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There are currently only four intact city walls in China, namely the Xi'an City Wall, Pingyao City Wall, Xingcheng City Wall, and Jingzhou City Wall. The Xi'an City Wall is the highest level, largest, and most intact among them, with a circumference of 13.74 kilometers!
Many attractions in Xi'an are located around the city wall.
For example, the largest stone museum in China - the Forest of Steles Museum
The ancestral home of Taoist Xiangzi culture - Xiangzi Temple
Guanzhong Academy, one of the four most famous academies in China
Guangren Temple, the only Green Tara temple in China
Wolong Temple, a Zen Buddhist temple with over 1,800 years of history
Yongxingfang, a food district that brings together 107 districts and counties in Shaanxi
When you come to Xi'an, you must visit the city wall. When you come to the city wall, please don't forget these niche attractions scattered around the city wall~
The area surrounded by the Xi'an city wall, with a total area of 11.32 square kilometers, is called the Old City District. The center of the Old City District is the Bell Tower. The Drum Tower is located 300 meters west of the Bell Tower. The Bell and Drum Tower is the landmark building of Xi'an. It was built during the Hongwu period of the Ming Dynasty. This area has been the most prosperous area in Xi'an since ancient times.
Today, it is also one of the areas with the most densely distributed scenic spots in Xi'an.
Here is one of the four major city god temples in China - Xi'an City God Temple
Huajuexiang Grand Mosque, one of the four largest mosques in China
Huifang, a gathering place for Hui Muslim food in Xi'an
The most lively market in Xi'an - Xicang Market
Xi'an's oldest commercial street - Mule and Horse Market
Xi'an nightclub gathering area - West Street
If you come to Xi'an and want to experience the daily life of Xi'an people and walk into the bustling alleys of the city, then this is the best place for you!
If we trace back the history of Xi'an, the most brilliant time was the Sui and Tang Dynasties. Thousands of countries paid tribute and all nations came to pay homage. The Tang Dynasty was the most powerful empire in the world at that time. However, in the late Tang Dynasty, wars broke out everywhere and Chang'an City was destroyed six times. Almost all the ground buildings were damaged, and only two towers were preserved, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and the Small Wild Goose Pagoda.
If you want to experience Tang culture, then Big Wild Goose Pagoda must be your first choice!
In addition to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda
Here is also China's first large-scale modern national museum - Shaanxi History Museum
Da Ci'en Temple, the ancestral temple of the Faxiang School of Chinese Buddhism
Tang Paradise, China's first royal garden-style cultural theme park in the heyday of the Tang Dynasty
The most beautiful night view in Xi'an - Tang Dynasty City
Xi'an's smallest museum - Xi'an Film Studio Museum
The familiar "Doll Girl", "Stone Brother" and "The Most Beautiful Night View of Xi'an" are all located near the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. Come here to experience the Tang Dynasty culture and enjoy the most beautiful night view!
The Daming Palace is known as "the pinnacle of Chinese palace architecture". It covers an area of 32,000 square kilometers, which is 4.5 times the size of the Forbidden City in Beijing. It was destroyed in the late Tang Dynasty and only broken walls remain today. It is still the best place to understand the politics, society, and economy of the Tang Dynasty. To the west of the Daming Palace is Xi'an's internet-famous industrial-style block - Dahua 1935, where the dialogue between ancient and modern is vividly displayed.
This place is just like New York's Central Park, a paradise in the city of Xi'an, with green trees, bridges and flowing water. But who would have thought that a thousand years ago this was the center of the world!
The famous Terracotta Warriors and Horses Scenic Area, the eighth wonder of the world, has been visited by more than 200 foreign heads of state and government. It is known as one of the world's ten rare treasures from ancient tombs. It is Xi'an's most shining business card!
There are actually many attractions near the Terracotta Warriors, each of which is extremely famous and has great historical significance.
The mysterious Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang
Tang Huaqing Palace, one of the four major imperial gardens in China
The capture of Jiang Ting at Mount Li, the site of the Xi'an Incident, etc.
They are all located here, which is a must-see attraction when traveling to Xi'an!
It is about 47 kilometers away from the city center of Xi'an, and the one-way drive takes about 1 hour.
Huifang refers to an area consisting of 12 streets and alleys. It not only has the Beiyuanmen and Xiyangshi, which are bustling with tourists, but also the Sajinqiao and Dapiyuan, which are full of delicious food. These are all within the Huifang area. It is a gathering place for Xi'an's halal Hui cuisine and a must-visit place for tasting Xi'an cuisine.
Beef and mutton soup with steamed buns, sesame sauce cold noodles, zongzi, soup dumplings, sour plum soup, sour soup dumplings, mutton in a basin, yellow osmanthus persimmon cakes, etc. are all must-try snacks in Huimin Street. It is also the place where there are the most old food shops with more than 30 years of history.
Depart from Xi'an丨0.5 days
Citywalk Xi'an - Take a break at Xicang Academy Gate
Starting from ￥198 174 people have registered Register nowYongxingfang, one of the 108 fangs of the Tang Dynasty, was the residence of Prime Minister Wei Zheng during the Tang Dynasty. Today, it has become a famous food district, gathering thousands of delicacies from 107 districts and counties in Shaanxi. If you come to Xi'an to taste the food, this is a must-visit place.
Here you can enjoy the specialties of northern Shaanxi, Guanzhong, and southern Shaanxi, as well as intangible cultural heritage performances such as shadow puppetry and Laowanqiang. You can check out all the Shaanxi delicacies in one stop. Cold noodles, roujiamo, jiaotuan, zichang pancakes, biangbiang noodles, golden thread oil tower, Ziyang steamed buns, and broken bowl wine are all must-try delicacies here.
If you want to experience the nightlife of Xi'an, then Big Wild Goose Pagoda is a place you must visit. Representatives of Shaanxi cuisine such as Chang'an Dapaidang, Xi'an Restaurant, Chef Bistro, Yuanjiacun Impression Experience Site, Defachang, and Li Ji Jiaotuan all have shops here.
Moreover, this is also a famous bar gathering area in Xi'an, with all kinds of bars, including pubs, nightclubs, livehouses, craft breweries, Japanese pubs, and rice wine pubs. The famous ones include Guangyin Live, Lan Kwai Fong, Tangtang, Jiuyue, Shisanchao, Guimototo, etc.
Where should you stay in Xi'an? Want to be close to attractions, close to great food, conveniently located, and away from the crowds? No problem! We can meet all your needs. We recommend booking a hotel within the Third Ring Road, so you're within reach of day trip pickup!
When you come to Xi'an, you must choose accommodation near the subway entrance. Xi'an Line 1 runs east-west, and Line 2 runs north-south. Beidajie Metro Station is the transfer point for Lines 1 and 2.
Living here is very convenient no matter where you want to go in Xi'an. It is located inside the Ming City Wall of Xi'an, very close to the Bell and Drum Tower area. To go to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda area, you can take Metro Line 2 and transfer to Line 3, which is very convenient!
Xi'an丨2 days and 1 night
Hotel booking in Xi'an
￥475 from 993 people have registered Register nowIf you want to live close to the food area, away from the crowds, and close to tourist attractions, then living near the Sajinqiao subway station is perfect. The Sajinqiao subway station is located along Metro Line 1 and is very convenient.
Sajin Bridge is the favorite food area for locals in Xi'an. There are many small restaurants here, all of which serve authentic halal food. Every Thursday and Sunday, there is also the Xicang Market, which is the local fireworks market. Here you can feel the strong atmosphere of fireworks and market life!
Yongning Gate is commonly known as the "South Gate". It is one of the earliest business districts in Xi'an. There are many shopping malls here, including Wangfujing Department Store, SKP Shopping Center, Zhongmao Shopping Plaza, etc.
Moreover, folk song performances, the South Gate entry ceremony, and the city wall light show are all held here. Attractions such as the Ming City Wall and the Forest of Steles Museum are located in this area. This is also one of the most beautiful places for night views in Xi'an. When the colorful lights on the city wall light up at night, it is the most pleasant thing to take a walk along the moat.
Xiaozhai is the most popular business district in Xi'an today and a must-visit place for fashionable men and women in Xi'an. It is equivalent to Taikoo Li in Chengdu, Jiefangbei in Chongqing, and Sanlitun in Beijing. It is also the transfer point for Xi'an Metro Lines 2 and 3. Whether you are heading north to play within the city wall or to the Tang Dynasty City that Never Sleeps to enjoy the night view, it is very convenient.
The Shaanxi History Museum and Big Wild Goose Pagoda are both within walking distance. The only inconvenient thing about it is that it is located outside the Second Ring Road of Xi'an. If you are going on a day trip to the Terracotta Warriors, Mount Hua, Hukou Waterfall, etc., you may not be able to be picked up and will need to go to the meeting point on your own.
Today, the Datang Pagoda area is the most popular area in Xi'an. It is not only a new business district in Xi'an, one of the locals' favorite places to go, but also a popular online block. "Doll Sister", "Stone Brother" and "Big Wild Goose Pagoda Fountain" are all located here.
During the day, you can visit the Shaanxi History Museum, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and the Tang Paradise. At night, you can go to the Tang Dynasty City that Never Sleeps to enjoy the most beautiful night light show in Xi'an. It is also close to the Qujiang New District and is one of the best places to live in Xi'an.
There are many homestays and hotels to choose from here. The only drawback is that it is located outside the second ring road of Xi'an. If you go on a day trip to the Terracotta Warriors, Mount Hua, Hukou Waterfall, etc., you may not be able to be picked up and you will need to go to the meeting point by yourself.
The Terracotta Warriors are one of the eight wonders of the world and a must-see attraction when traveling to Xi'an. So how should you choose a one-day tour of the Terracotta Warriors?
China-TravelNote currently offers two types of Terracotta Warriors day tours: a mini fun group for 2-4 people and a VIP small group for 4-15 people. Both are pure play tours with no shopping or out-of-pocket expenses. China-TravelNote offers independent group products and both include a terracotta warrior making experience. So what is the difference between them?
Mini Fun Group for 2-4 people:
This one-day tour includes the Terracotta Warriors and the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor, led by a tour guide. These guides are experienced locals who are both reliable drivers and historical narrators. They can easily share local secrets and offer a friendly, unique experience. This tour is perfect for young people seeking a unique experience.
VIP small group of 4-15 people:
This is a one-day tour of the Terracotta Warriors and Huaqing Hot Spring, led by a top tour guide. The guide will provide professional interpretation services, analyze unknown historical aspects from a unique perspective, and give you a systematic understanding of the society at that time. It is suitable for family tourists and guests who need to understand local culture.
Depart from Xi'an丨1 day
Terracotta Warriors Special Line·One-day in-depth exploration of the Qin Emperor's Mausoleum
￥398 Starting from 3596 people have registered Register nowClimbing Mount Huashan has become one of the must-see attractions in Xi'an, but how do you choose the cable car for a one-day trip to Mount Huashan?
There are two cable cars in Huashan, the North Peak Cable Car and the West Peak Cable Car. The North Peak is the lowest peak in Huashan, and you need to climb to go to other peaks from the North Peak. The altitude of the West Peak is similar to that of the East, South and Central Peaks, so the climbing distance will be shorter if you take the West Peak Cable Car.
North up and North down: The North Peak cable car goes back and forth, and the climbing and descending distances are long, which requires a high level of physical strength. Because the climbing and descending time are too long, the sightseeing time on the other four peaks will be relatively reduced, but the price is the lowest.
Go up from the west and go down from the north: Take the cable car up to the West Peak and the cable car down to the North Peak. There is no need to climb the mountain. It is mostly a downhill road. It is the route with the most scenery and you rarely go back. It is the most cost-effective route.
West up and west down: Take the West Peak Cableway round trip, the easiest route. Except for the North Peak, you can basically see other highlights, but the price is the highest. It is suitable for the elderly or children. If you need to go up and down the west, you need to contact customer service to make up the price difference.
Hukou Waterfall and the Mausoleum of the Yellow Emperor are popular tourist destinations near Xi'an. So should you choose a one-day tour of Hukou Waterfall or a one-day tour of Hukou Waterfall and the Mausoleum of the Yellow Emperor?
Hukou Waterfall Day Tour:
Except for the peak season during holidays, we will gather at 7:20 am on weekdays and arrive in downtown Xi'an around 8:30 pm. We will go to Hukou Waterfall and the cave dwellings of the former educated youth, and include a Shaanxi specialty lunch.
Hukou Waterfall + Mausoleum of the Yellow Emperor Day Tour:
Except for the peak season during holidays, we will gather at 6:20 am on weekdays and arrive in downtown Xi'an around 9:30 pm. We will visit Hukou Waterfall, the former cave residence of educated youth, and the Mausoleum of the Yellow Emperor, and include a Shaanxi specialty lunch.
China-TravelNote currently offers two one-day tours to Xi'an, one is Unlock Xi'an One-Day Tour and the other is The Longest Day in Chang'an. So which one should you choose?
Unlock a one-day tour in Xi'an:
The must-see attractions in Xi'an are all covered. The route is Ming City Wall + Shuyuan Gate + shadow puppet making + Yongxingfang + Shaanxi History Museum. The experience of making intangible cultural heritage shadow puppets increases the fun of the trip. It is suitable for tourists visiting Xi'an for the first time.
Chang'an Twelve Moments:
Enjoy an in-depth one-day tour of Xi'an, with a route including the Ming City Wall, Huifang, Small Wild Goose Pagoda, Xi'an Museum, and the Tang Dynasty City That Never Sleeps. Experience the profoundness of Xi'an cuisine with the "Zhang Xiaojing Set Meal" of mutton in a basin and persimmon cake, perfect for second-time visitors.
National Treasure Line:
Xi'an's two must-visit museums are the Shaanxi History Museum and the Qin Shihuang Terracotta Army Museum. They offer a one-day visit with in-depth explanations and are suitable for first-time visitors to Xi'an.
The Shaanxi History Museum became popular because of the TV series "National Treasure", and the mysterious Hejiacun treasure has become known to more and more people. So how should we visit the Shaanxi History Museum?
The Shaanxi History Museum consists of the Basic Hall + Treasure Hall + Mural Hall. It is closed on Mondays. Tickets are required for both the Treasure Hall and the Mural Hall. The Basic Hall is free to visit. The well-known Hejiacun Treasure is located in the Treasure Hall. The Mural Hall exhibits exquisite murals from Tang Dynasty tombs. There are more than 600 murals on display, 18 of which are national treasures and 82 are first-class products!
1. Question: When is the Shaanxi History Museum least crowded during the day?
Answer: Shaanxi History Museum has five admission time periods a day, with 1,000 to 1,200 tickets for each session, so the number of people is the same.
2. Question: Do I need to queue to enter the Shaanxi History Museum?
Answer: Because there are many tourists during the peak season, queuing is normal. Since tickets are booked in advance, the queue will not be long.
3. Question: Is there any luggage storage at the Shaanxi History Museum?
A: Yes, there is a luggage check-in area west of the main entrance. However, large luggage over 35cm, knives, lighters, selfie sticks, tripods, hiking poles, and other dangerous items are not allowed into the exhibition hall. The exhibition halls are crowded, and carrying these items is inconvenient and can be dangerous. If you bring these items, please check them in advance and remember to pick them up when you leave. If you forget to pick them up and need to mail them, you must present the receipt stub. You can choose to pay the postage on delivery.
4. Question: Can I visit the museum on my own after the tour?
A: Yes, but each person can only enter the museum once a day. Once you leave the museum, you cannot re-enter. If you are hungry, there is a restaurant in the west underground visitor rest area on the first floor near the fourth exhibition hall, which provides light meals and Shaanxi specialties.
5. Question: Can I take photos in the mural gallery?
A: Photography is prohibited in the "Treasures of Tang Dynasty Murals" gallery. Photography is permitted in other exhibitions (except in special circumstances), but cell phone and camera flashes and autofocus indicators must be turned off. Strong lighting can cause irreversible damage to cultural relics, especially murals, which require more stringent preservation conditions. Therefore, we encourage everyone to comply with these regulations and maintain a respectful attitude.
This is the most historical and cultural route in Xi'an CityWalk. You can stroll along the city wall, visit the niche ancient buildings hidden in the market, and learn about Xi'an's religious culture, market cuisine, and urban development. Because the attractions are relatively niche, you can explore the history of Xi'an in depth. It is suitable for tourists visiting Xi'an for the second time.
This is the most down-to-earth route in Xi'an CityWalk. Departing every Thursday and Sunday, you'll delve into the Huifang food district, explore the relationship between the mosque, the City God Temple, and Xi'an, learn about Xi'an cuisine, and step into the locals' market to experience the busiest and most traditional market life. There's also intangible cultural heritage shadow puppetry to watch. Perfect for first-time visitors to Xi'an and those interested in food, this is a must-do route for exploring Huimin Street!
Depart from Xi'an丨0.5 days
Citywalk Xi'an - Take a break at Xicang Academy Gate
Starting from ￥198 174 people have registered Register nowThis is the most Tang Dynasty-style route in Xi'an CityWalk. Away from the crowded Big Wild Goose Pagoda and Shaanxi History Museum, you can visit the lesser-known Small Wild Goose Pagoda and Xi'an Museum, and experience ringing the bell for blessings. Although the walking distance is not long, you will feel the strongest Tang Dynasty legacy. It is very suitable for family tours and tourists with children to participate!
Depart from Xi'an丨0.5 days
Legendary Small Wild Goose Pagoda - Half-Day Tour for 2-8 People
￥138 From 383 people have registered Register nowIf you come to Xi'an and want to take an in-depth tour of the city wall and explore the national treasures of the Forest of Steles Museum, then this itinerary is perfect for you. You can stroll along the city wall, overlooking the scenery on both sides of the wall, and then walk into the Forest of Steles to explore the story behind the Jingyun Bell and learn about the tragic past of the Six Horses of Zhaoling. This route is very suitable for first-time tourists to Xi'an and is a must-do itinerary for enjoying the Ming City Wall!
If you have any questions about traveling in Xi'an, please leave a message in the comment area!
