Meet you in Xi'an
Top 1
Terracotta Warriors
The Terracotta Warriors are China’s most famous archaeological discovery. Buried for over 2,000 years with Emperor Qin Shi Huang, this army of over 8,000 life-size soldiers, horses, and chariots was unearthed in 1974. Each figure has unique facial features and clothing. The three main pits showcase battle formations, with Pit 1 being the largest. A bronze chariot and other artifacts are displayed in the museum. Standing before this silent army, you feel the power and mystery of ancient China. The Terracotta Warriors are a must-see UNESCO World Heritage site, located about an hour from Xi’an city center.
Top 2
Xi’an City Wall
The Xi’an City Wall is the best-preserved ancient city wall in China, dating back to the Ming dynasty. Stretching nearly 14 kilometers, it encloses the old city center. You can walk, rent a bicycle, or take an electric cart along the wide top. The wall features watchtowers, gates, and ramparts. At night, lanterns illuminate the structure, creating a magical atmosphere. The South Gate area is especially lively. Biking the full loop takes about two hours and offers great views of both ancient temples and modern Xi’an. The City Wall perfectly represents the city’s proud defensive history and leisurely modern life.
Top 3
Muslim Quarter
The Muslim Quarter is the heart of Xi’an’s Hui Muslim community, centered on the Great Mosque. The narrow streets buzz with food stalls, souvenir shops, and tea houses. Try local favorites: yangrou paomo (crumbled bread in lamb stew), biangbiang noodles, persimmon cakes, and cumin‑spiced lamb skewers. The aroma of sizzling meat and spices fills the air. The alleyways are especially vibrant at night, lit by colorful signs. Don’t miss the nearby Great Mosque, a peaceful blend of Chinese and Islamic architecture. The Muslim Quarter offers an unforgettable journey into Xi’an’s living culture and cuisine.
Top 4
Big Wild Goose Pagoda
The Big Wild Goose Pagoda is a Buddhist landmark built in the Tang dynasty to store sutras brought from India by the monk Xuanzang. The five‑story brick pagoda stands 64 meters tall in Da Ci’en Temple. Climb the stairs for a view of the surrounding square and fountains. In front of the pagoda, the North Square hosts one of Asia’s largest musical fountain shows every evening, with water dancing to classical music. The area is especially beautiful at night. The pagoda and its gardens are a peaceful retreat from the city bustle, connecting visitors to Xi’an’s glorious Buddhist past.
Top 5
Bell Tower & Drum Tower
The Bell Tower and Drum Tower stand at the center of Xi’an, facing each other across a square. The Bell Tower once marked the start of the day, while the Drum Tower signaled nightfall. Both feature traditional Ming dynasty architecture with intricate wooden brackets and painted beams. You can climb both towers for views of the city’s main avenues. The Drum Tower houses a collection of ancient drums, and daily drum performances take place. At night, the towers are beautifully lit. The area around them is a busy commercial hub. Together, the two towers symbolize Xi’an’s ancient timekeeping and its enduring cultural heart.
Top 6
Shaanxi History Museum
The Shaanxi History Museum is one of China’s best museums, housing over 370,000 artifacts. The collection spans from prehistoric times to the Tang dynasty, when Xi’an (then Chang’an) was the world’s largest city. Highlights include bronze vessels from the Zhou dynasty, terracotta figures from the Qin, gold and silver ware from the Han, and exquisite Tang tri-color glazed ceramics. The museum’s Tang murals gallery is a rare treasure. The building itself is designed in a Tang dynasty style. Admission is free but requires advance reservation. Plan at least two hours to explore. This museum is essential for understanding Xi’an’s glorious past.
Top 7
Huaqing Hot Springs
Huaqing Hot Springs lie at the foot of Mount Li, about 30 minutes from Xi’an. For over 3,000 years, emperors bathed here. The site is most famous for the love story of Emperor Xuanzong and his consort Yang Guifei during the Tang dynasty. You can see the restored pools where they bathed, along with the Five‑Hall complex and a cable car up Mount Li for views of the surrounding countryside. The hot springs still flow, and a modern spa allows you to soak in the same mineral waters. The nightly outdoor performance “Song of Everlasting Sorrow” brings the tragic romance to life. Huaqing offers history, nature, and relaxation.
Top 8
Tang Paradise (Datang Furong Yuan)
Tang Paradise is a large theme park reconstructing the grandeur of the Tang dynasty’s imperial gardens. Located near the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, it features pavilions, lakes, and classical architecture. The park is especially famous for its nighttime light shows and cultural performances, including a spectacular water screen movie and Tang dynasty dance shows. You can dress in Tang‑style costumes, take a boat ride, or watch the imperial court reenactments. The entire area around the park, known as Datang Everbright City, is a modern pedestrian street with shops, restaurants, and nightly performances. Tang Paradise offers a glamorous, entertaining glimpse into China’s golden age.
Top 9
Saige International Shopping Center
Saige is Xi’an’s most popular modern shopping destination, located in the bustling Xiaozhai district. The mall is famous for its spectacular indoor waterfall, which drops from the third floor to the ground level, creating a refreshing atmosphere. It also features the world’s longest escalator inside a shopping mall, stretching over 50 meters. Beyond luxury brands and fast fashion, the food courts offer everything from Shaanxi noodles and roujiamo (Chinese burger) to international cuisine. The basement supermarket is excellent for local snacks and gifts. Saige blends shopping, dining, and entertainment into one vibrant space, showing a different side of Xi’an beyond ancient history.