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Visiting Xi'an, the first capital of China - where should you go and what should you explore? Discover the most exciting tourist spots in Xi'an for independent travelers!
Located in the heart of northwest China, Xi'an, formerly known as Chang'an, is one of the birthplaces of ancient Chinese civilization. With over 3000 years of history, including more than 1100 years as the capital of various dynasties, Xi'an boasts an impressive cultural heritage. Its historical landmarks and precious artifacts never fail to amaze visitors.
The city is also renowned as the eastern terminus of the Silk Road and home to the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang, featuring the famous Terracotta Army. Since the 1990s, Xi'an has risen strongly through China's Western Development Program, becoming a regional hub for economy, culture, and education, blending historical significance with modern conveniences.
Join Mytour Vietnam as we explore the most prominent tourist attractions in Xi'an!
1. Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang - Xi'an
- Address: Lintong District, Xi'an
The Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang, located in the eastern suburbs of Lintong District, 35km from Xi'an, is considered an extraordinary architectural feat, even surpassing the Egyptian pyramids in scale. Originally standing at 100m tall, it now measures about 47m, covering an area of 2,180,000 square meters.
In addition to the famous Terracotta Army, the Bronze Chariots and Horses Museum showcases numerous bronze artifacts, highlighting the advanced metallurgical skills of the Qin Dynasty. Pit 9901 features terracotta figures depicting artistic activities like dancing and acrobatics. Notably, Pit K0006 retains its wooden structure, offering a glimpse into ancient architectural techniques.
The site offers electric carts, horse-drawn carriages, and free shuttle buses between the mausoleum and the Terracotta Army Museum. International tourists are reminded to bring their passports.
2. Xi'an City Wall - A Monument to China's Glorious History
- Address: 2 South Street, Beilin District, Xi'an
Standing prominently in the heart of the city, the ancient Xi'an City Wall stretches 13.7 km, making it the most intact ancient military structure in China. Built during the Ming Dynasty, the wall stands 12 meters high and is 12-18 meters wide, featuring four main gates: East (Changle), West (Anding), South (Yongning), and North (Anyuan).
To explore the wall, you can walk, cycle, or take an electric cart along its top. Additionally, the wall hosts various exciting events such as the Lantern Festival during Lunar New Year (January-March), the International Marathon (October), and the Kite Festival (April), offering a unique cultural experience of Xi'an.
3. Giant Wild Goose Pagoda - Xi'an
- Address: 1 Cien Rd, Yanta District, Xi'an
A must-visit for fans of Journey to the West, the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda is a prominent historical and religious symbol of China. Constructed in 652 during the Tang Dynasty, the pagoda originally stood at 60 meters and now reaches 64.5 meters with seven stories. It houses numerous precious Buddhist artifacts brought back by the monk Xuanzang after his 17-year pilgrimage along the Silk Road.
The pagoda is part of the Da Ci'en Temple complex, featuring expansive grounds with gardens, plazas, and Asia's largest musical fountain. For a panoramic view of Xi'an, climb the pagoda's levels. Admission to Da Ci'en Temple costs 40 yuan, while climbing the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda requires an additional 25 yuan.
4. Mount Hua in Xi'an
- Address: Huayin City, Weinan City, Shaanxi Province
The majestic beauty and treacherous trails make Mount Hua one of China's most captivating destinations. Located about 120 km from Xi'an, it is one of the Five Great Mountains. The mountain features five peaks—East, West, South, North, and Central—each with its unique charm. Beyond its stunning scenery, the area is home to ancient Taoist temples.
Visitors can choose to hike or take a cable car. Entrance fees range from 100 to 160 yuan depending on the season, and cable car prices vary by route. The best time to conquer Mount Hua is from April to October. Remember to bring proper hiking shoes and plenty of water!
5. The 600-Year-Old Bell Tower in Xi'an
- Address: Intersection of East Street and West Street in Beilin District, Xi'an
The Xi'an Bell Tower, a historical symbol over 600 years old, stands at the heart of the city. It is open from 8:30 to 21:30 during peak season (April 1 - October 10) and from 8:30 to 18:00 during off-peak season (October 11 - March 31). Admission costs around 30 yuan. Visitors can easily reach it via Metro Line 2 or several bus routes.
This massive wooden architectural marvel is one of China's best-preserved heritage sites. The tower features a two-story, three-eave design with gray bricks, red pillars, and dark green tiles, creating a striking appearance. Inside, it showcases cultural artifacts and traditional artworks, along with hosting traditional music and dance performances. At night, the tower is brilliantly illuminated, offering a breathtaking view.
6. Drum Tower - Xi'an
- Address: 1 Huimin Street, West Street, Lianhu District, Xi'an
Just 200 meters from the Bell Tower, the Xi'an Drum Tower is an impressive architectural gem you shouldn't miss. Built in 1380 during the Ming Dynasty, the tower stands 34 meters tall and now serves as a museum displaying ancient drum collections and cultural relics, some of which are over 1000 years old.
Here, visitors can admire 24 drums representing the 24 solar terms of the Chinese lunar calendar, symbolizing good fortune. Additionally, traditional Tang Dynasty dance performances, especially the drumming shows, offer a valuable cultural experience. The ticket price and opening hours are similar to the Bell Tower. If visiting both, consider purchasing a combo ticket for just 50 CNY.
7. Muslim Quarter - Xi'an
- Address: Beilin District, Xi'an
The rich cuisine and unique culture make the Muslim Quarter in Xi'an a must-visit destination. Located near the Drum Tower, this 1,000-year-old street is renowned for its over 300 delicious dishes, attracting food lovers from everywhere. Signature dishes include roujiamo (Chinese hamburger), yangrou paomo (crumbled flatbread in lamb soup), and soup dumplings.
Additionally, you can explore ancient mosques with traditional Chinese architecture, showcasing the fascinating cultural fusion between different ethnic groups. To make your visit more enriching, don’t forget to learn about local customs and traditions!
8. Shaanxi History Museum - Xi'an
- Address: 91 Xiaozhai East Road, Yanta District, Xi'an, Shaanxi
If you're looking for an exciting place to explore Chinese history, the Shaanxi History Museum is an excellent choice. As China's first modern national museum, it houses over 370,000 artifacts reflecting the country's development from prehistoric times to 1840.
The museum's architecture is heavily influenced by the Tang Dynasty style, divided into four main areas: the lobby, permanent exhibition halls, temporary exhibition halls, and mural galleries. Among the standout artifacts, you'll find gold relics, tri-colored glazed pottery, and items related to the Silk Road.
(*) Note: Admission to the museum is free, but you need to book tickets in advance through the official website or WeChat.
9. Guanzhong Folk Art Museum - Xi'an
- Address: No. 1 South Wutaishan Road, Wutai Ancient Town, Chang'an District, Xi'an
Located in Wutai Town, 30km from central Xi'an, the Guanzhong Folk Art Museum is a must-visit for traditional culture enthusiasts. With over 33,600 precious artifacts, including stone carvings, bricks, woodblock prints, shadow puppets, and antique furniture, it offers a journey back in time.
The museum recreates an ancient street with 40 Ming and Qing Dynasty houses, meticulously relocated and restored. Intricately carved stone pillars tell stories of cultural exchanges between ethnic groups, creating a captivating atmosphere. Don’t miss the traditional opera and shadow puppet performances, which offer delightful experiences. Spend about an hour exploring the beauty of this place!
10. Huaqing Palace - Xi'an
- Address: 38 North Huaqing Road, Lintong District, Xi'an
Located about 25 km from central Xi'an, Huaqing Palace captivates visitors with its picturesque scenery and rich historical heritage. For over 3000 years, it served as an imperial retreat, famously associated with the romantic tale of Emperor Xuanzong and Yang Guifei.
Here, you can explore the ruins of the Tang Dynasty royal hot springs, stroll through vast lotus gardens, and admire the splendid Longevity Palace. The Nine Dragon Lake, with its gracefully arched bridge, is also the setting for the Song of Eternal Sorrow, a performance depicting the tragic life of Yang Guifei amidst a majestic backdrop.
To get here, you can take bus routes 914, 915, or 306 from Xi'an Station. The best times to visit are during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November).
11. Shuyuanmen Cultural Street - Xi'an
- Address: Shuyuanmen, Beilin District, Xi'an
The 570-meter-long Shuyuanmen Ancient Street is named after the prestigious Guanzhong Shuyuan Academy that once stood here. The air is filled with the scent of calligraphy ink, blending with the charm of traditional two-story Ming and Qing Dynasty shops, creating an enchanting atmosphere.
Here, you’ll find precious calligraphy items such as antiques, jade, paintings, and handicrafts. Additionally, there are local art pieces like shadow puppets, paper-cut art, and intricately crafted facial paintings. The street is open all day, with shops operating from 9:00 to 22:00. To get here, take bus routes 12, 184, 193, 600, 603, 208, or 221 to South Gate Station, or take Metro Line 2 to Yongningmen Station.
12. Qianling Mausoleum - Xi'an
- Address: Qian County, Xianyang, Shaanxi
Xi'an is not only famous for the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang but also the resting place of Wu Zetian, the only female emperor in Chinese history. Qianling Mausoleum features grand architecture, replicating the layout of Chang'an with a north-south axis and protected by 124 stone statues reflecting the cultural fusion of Asia and Europe. Statues of animals, humans, and even ostriches illustrate the prosperity of Tang Dynasty trade.
Qianling Mausoleum is solidly constructed, being the only tomb to avoid destruction by thieves. Here, you can admire exquisite stone statues and the "Qijie Bei" stele composed by Wu Zetian. Admission fees range from 80-100 CNY depending on the season. To reach Qianling, take a high-speed train from Xi'an North Station to Qian County, then take a taxi or bus.
13. Tang Paradise (Furong Garden) - Xi'an
- Address: No. 99 West Furong Road, Qujiang New District, Xi'an
The splendor of the Tang Dynasty (618-907) is vividly recreated at Tang Paradise in Xi'an. The garden spans 165 acres, with 300 acres of water, divided into 14 cultural zones, each reflecting Tang architecture and art, from majestic palaces to picturesque gardens.
The Ziyun Tower, located at the center, is a highlight of the exploration. At the Phoenix Theater, immerse yourself in traditional art performances. Enjoy Tang-style tea ceremonies at the Lu Yu Tea House and royal banquets at the Imperial Banquet Palace for an unforgettable experience. Finally, the light and water show "Dream Back to the Tang Dynasty" on the lake will leave you in awe of this magical garden.
14. Hukou Waterfall - Xi'an
- Address: Yichuan County, Yanan City, Shaanxi Province
The majestic beauty of Hukou Waterfall on the Yellow River will leave you in awe at first sight. As the world's largest sediment-laden waterfall, it stands out with its wild scenery, magnificent gorges, and the vast Loess Plateau. The best times to visit are from April to May and September to November, when the weather is pleasant and the scenery is vibrant.
In addition to the main waterfall, don’t miss the mysterious Longdong Cave or the rainbows that often appear over the cascading waters. Another highlight is the traditional Shaanxi drum dance performances, offering a unique cultural experience of the region.
15. Famen Temple - Xi'an
- Address: Famen Town, Fufeng County, Baoji City, Shaanxi Province
Famen Temple, located in Fufeng County, Shaanxi Province, 120 km from Xi'an, is an invaluable Buddhist heritage site. It is renowned for housing the finger bone relic of Sakyamuni Buddha, a sacred treasure that attracts millions of visitors annually.
The complex includes the Temple Gate Square, the 1230-meter-long Puguang Avenue, the majestic main hall, and the Namo Pagoda. In 1987, an underground palace beneath the pagoda was discovered, containing numerous precious treasures from the Tang Dynasty. From Xi'an, you can reach the temple by bus or taxi. To fully explore its beauty and historical significance, allocate at least 3 hours for your visit.
The ancient and majestic beauty of Xi'an captivates every visitor. Not only does it preserve historical heritage like the Terracotta Army, the imposing city walls, and serene temples, but it also enchants with the grandeur of Mount Hua and its picturesque natural surroundings. Here, you’ll have the chance to explore impressive architecture, experience unique culture, and savor diverse cuisine.
For more travel tips on Xi'an and other captivating destinations in China, check out the helpful articles on Mytour Blog: Latest China Travel Guide 2024, 20 Famous Chinese Scenic Spots You Shouldn’t Miss, Latest Great Wall Travel Guide 2024, 10 Beautiful Ancient Towns in China You Must Visit, Travel Guide to Wuzhen,...
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