The Ancient Capital of Thirteen Dynasties
Plan My Trip →Xi'an, one of China's four great ancient capitals, is where the country's history comes alive. Home to the Terracotta Warriors and the best-preserved city wall in the world, Xi'an is an essential stop on any China journey.
Xi'an's greatest treasure — the 8,000-strong terracotta army guarding the tomb of the first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. The scale is staggering. Visit early or late to avoid the crowds, and allow half a day including the site museum.
Xi'an's 14-kilometer Ming-dynasty city wall is the best-preserved in China and entirely walkable or cyclable. Rent a bike and circle the wall at sunset for a memorable panorama of the old and new city.
The Tang-dynasty pagoda, built to house Buddhist scriptures brought from India, is Xi'an's landmark. The surrounding Datang Everbright City comes alive at night with lights and cultural performances. Climb to the top for city views.
Xi'an's Muslim Quarter is a vibrant maze of food stalls and shops around the Great Mosque. Sample the famous local snacks — roujiamo (Chinese burger), biangbiang noodles, lamb paomo, and candied hawthorn — as you wander the lantern-lit streets.
One of China's best museums, the Shaanxi History Museum houses treasures from the region's millennia of civilization — bronze, pottery, and gold from the Zhou, Han, and Tang dynasties. Book your free ticket online in advance.
Two days covers the essentials: the Terracotta Warriors and City Wall (Day 1), the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Muslim Quarter, and museum (Day 2). Xi'an is also the perfect starting point for the Silk Road or a side trip to Mount Huashan.