Top 10 Things to Do in Xi’an
Top 10 Things to Do in Xi’an
Xi’an is one of China’s oldest cities and somehow still flies under the radar for many tourists. It was the capital for 13 dynasties. The Silk Road started here. And of course, it has the Terracotta Warriors. But there’s a lot more to Xi’an than just the famous army. Here’s what to do with your time.
1. See the Terracotta Warriors
This is non-negotiable. The Terracotta Army is one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century — 8,000 life-sized soldiers, each with a unique face, buried for 2,200 years to guard Emperor Qin’s tomb. Go early (opens 8am) to beat the crowds. Pit 1 is the main attraction — the scale of it genuinely surprises people. Pit 2 has more variety (archers, cavalry), and Pit 3 is small but houses the command center. The site is about an hour outside Xi’an. Take a taxi or join a small group tour.
2. Walk the Ancient City Wall
Xi’an’s city wall is the best-preserved in China — 14 kilometers long, wide enough to drive a car across (though you’ll bike it instead). Rent a bicycle at the South Gate and ride the full circuit. It takes about 1.5 hours at a relaxed pace, with views of both the old city and the modern skyline. Go just before sunset for the best light.
3. Explore the Muslim Quarter
Xi’an has a large Hui Muslim community that’s been here since the Silk Road days. The Muslim Quarter is a maze of narrow alleys packed with food stalls, souvenir shops, and the Great Mosque (a fascinating blend of Chinese and Islamic architecture). The street food here is legendary — lamb skewers, biangbiang noodles, and persimmon cakes. Go hungry.
4. Visit the Shaanxi History Museum
One of China’s best museums, with artifacts spanning from the Zhou dynasty to the Tang. The bronze vessels, Tang dynasty murals, and gold artifacts are extraordinary. Book tickets in advance — the free tickets run out quickly, and the paid ticket for the special exhibition is worth every yuan.
5. Eat Biangbiang Noodles
These thick, hand-pulled noodles are Xi’an’s signature dish. The name “biang” is onomatopoeia for the sound of slapping noodles on a counter. They’re served with chili oil, garlic, and vegetables. The Chinese character for biang has 57 strokes — the most complex character in the language. Find a small noodle shop in the Muslim Quarter and order a bowl.
6. Climb the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda
A 64-meter pagoda built in 652 AD to store Buddhist scriptures brought from India. Climb to the top for views of the city. The square in front has a massive fountain show in the evenings. It’s touristy but worth seeing once.
7. Watch the Tang Dynasty Show
A dinner show featuring Tang dynasty music, dance, and costumes. It’s theatrical and over-the-top in the best way. The food is mediocre, but the performance is genuinely impressive. Book through your hotel or a travel site.
8. Discover the Small Wild Goose Pagoda
Less crowded than the Giant Pagoda and surrounded by a peaceful park. The adjacent Xi’an Museum is excellent and quieter than the Shaanxi History Museum. A good choice if you want a relaxed afternoon.
9. Try Yangrou Paomo (羊肉泡馍)
Xi’an’s iconic comfort dish — flatbread that you break into tiny pieces yourself, then it’s simmered in lamb broth with noodles and served with pickled garlic and chili sauce. The bread-breaking ritual is part of the experience. Locals take it seriously — smaller pieces mean more respect for the dish. Try it at Lao Sun Jia, one of the oldest restaurants in the city.
10. Take a Day Trip to Huashan Mountain
One of China’s most sacred Taoist mountains, about 2 hours from Xi’an by train. The plank walk on the south peak is famous — a narrow wooden path bolted to a vertical cliff face. Not for the faint of heart, but the views are incredible. The cable car ride up is an experience in itself.