The Terracotta Army is one of archaeology’s greatest discoveries — thousands of life-sized soldiers created to protect China’s first emperor in the afterlife.
The Discovery
In 1974 farmers digging a well broke through an underground vault. Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s army emerged — transforming our understanding of ancient China.
What You See
Pit 1: 6,000 warriors in battle formation — most dramatic.
Also worth reading:
Pit 2: Archers, cavalry, kneeling archers.
Pit 3: Command center with officers.
Practical Info
Lintong District, 35km from Xi’an. Open 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM. Tickets: 120 RMB. Allow 3-4 hours. High-speed train from Beijing: 4.5 hours.
More in our China City Travel Guide.
