Located in central China, Xi’an is one of the nation’s most historic cities. As a former imperial capital and the starting point of the Silk Road, it embodies the very essence of ancient China. Home to extraordinary archaeological treasures, a rich multicultural heritage, and vibrant bazaars, Xi’an stands as a historic crossroads of civilizations and traditions. It is here that the grandeur of Chinese governance, culture, and commerce was born. The city seamlessly pairs majestic fortification walls and ancient pagodas with modern energy, creating a unique synthesis of deep history and dynamic everyday life.
Xi'an
A journey into China’s past – Imperial history, Terracotta Army, and Eastern Silk
Xi’an, one of China’s oldest cities and the starting point of the Silk Road, is a destination steeped in living history. Located in central China, it served as the capital for 13 imperial dynasties. Walk along its remarkably well-preserved ancient city walls, discover the monumental Terracotta Army, and explore the historic Muslim Quarter and market. Xi’an seamlessly fuses its imperial past with modern vitality, vibrant street food, cultural performances, and rich local traditions. It is an ideal destination for enthusiasts of history, traditional Chinese architecture, and multicultural identity. Traveling here is like stepping into a book of ancient China brought to life in the modern era—a true national treasure filled with imperial monuments, ancient bazaars, and sacred symbols where the Silk Road once united diverse peoples, flavors, and ideas.
Highlights
Forest of Stone Steles
The Forest of Stone Steles was originally built in 1087. It features a classic courtyard layout situated on the site of the former Confucian Temple on Sanxue Street in Xi'an. The museum covers an area of over 30,000 square meters and stands as one of the premier centers for ancient Chinese classical stone carving and calligraphy.
Bell & Drum Towers
In Chinese history since the Ming Dynasty, every city possessed a bell tower and a drum tower. The bell struck at dawn and the drum sounded at dusk each day. Located in the center of the city, they connect the four cardinal avenues—East, South, West, and North—within the ancient city walls.
Muslim Quarter
The Muslim Quarter is a wonderful place well worth visiting. The famous Great Mosque is located right in the heart of the district. The bazaar in the Muslim Quarter is particularly fascinating, featuring an expansive maze of stalls selling everything imaginable. Its streets and pedestrian alleys are vibrant and bursting with life.
City Wall
The Xi'an City Wall is the most complete surviving city wall in China and stands as one of the world's largest ancient military defensive systems. Expanded during the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644), it was built upon the foundations of the original city wall constructed during the Tang Dynasty (618–907).
Terracotta Army
Visiting the Terracotta Army Museum is likely the primary reason you find yourself in Xi'an. The original site was discovered by a local farmer digging a water well in 1974. Today, it has been transformed into Xi'an's most significant cultural landmark—the Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum, showcasing thousands of life-sized terracotta warriors, horses, and battle chariots.
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IDEAL DESTINATION
Where the Silk Road Begins
Gastronomic Journey in Xi'an
As the homeland of the famous biangbiang noodles, Xi’an is a culinary paradise bursting with rich aromas and deep-rooted traditions. Awaiting you in Xi’an is a traditional cuisine filled with unique delicacies and dishes bound to impress. From abundant seafood and skewers of fried crab and squid to savory lamb or beef burgers (roujiamo), as well as hand-pulled noodles prepared in a variety of delicious variations—atmospheric restaurants, street food stalls, and picturesque eateries invite you on an unforgettable culinary journey.
Best Time to Visit Xi'an
Xi’an can be visited year-round. However, to avoid extreme heat, it is best to avoid the summer months from June through August.
Getting Around Xi'an
Airport Transfer Options
Xi’an is easily accessible by air through its international airport. To reach the city center from the airport, you can take the metro/airport train, an airport express bus, or hire a taxi/private car rental.
Public Transportation
For getting around within the city, you can use the popular and economical metro system, city buses, Hop-On Hop-Off sightseeing buses connecting key attractions, or choose to rent a bicycle or car.
Questions & Answers
Q&A
The Terracotta Army, Ancient City Wall, Muslim Quarter, Pagodas, and the Xi’an Museum.
2–3 days are sufficient for the main attractions and culinary experiences.
By air via Xi’an Xianyang International Airport (XIY) or by high-speed bullet train from Beijing or Shanghai.
Roujiamo (Chinese savory meat burger), biangbiang noodles, lamb dumplings, and local spicy aromatic soups.
Yes – it offers convenient transportation, rich cultural interest, and attractions suitable for all ages.
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