2025 Terracotta Army/Hua Qing Palace Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in October)

#hellohalloween Walking through the Terracotta Army Museum (兵马俑博物馆) feels like stepping straight into ancient China — a history walk unlike any other 👣. Rows upon rows of life-sized clay soldiers stand guard, each with distinct faces, hairstyles, and armor — a silent army protecting Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s tomb for over 2,000 years ⚔️. As you wander through Pit 1, the largest excavation hall, the sheer scale takes your breath away 😮 — thousands of soldiers aligned in perfect formation. In Pit 2 and Pit 3, you’ll see cavalry units, archers, and command posts, revealing how advanced military organization was even in 210 BCE. The Cultural Relics Hall showcases chariots, weapons, and gold artifacts that tell the story of the first unifier of China. Every step here connects you with history — not just to the emperor, but to the craftsmen who built these warriors by hand 🖐️.

Let’s go! Here’s how to dive deep into Xi’an’s epic history & flavor in just 3 days Day 1: Start your Xi’an adventure in the evening wandering the buzzing Xi'an Muslim Quarter. Street eats here are legendary—try roujiamo (Chinese burger) and black sesame ice cream while soaking up the neon-lit vibes. Next, head to the iconic Bell and Drum Towers, best seen glowing in the dark. Day 2: Start early at the imposing Xi'an City Wall. Afterward, step into Xi'an Museum to get hands-on with centuries-old artifacts. In the beautiful park at the museum you’ll find the Small Goose Pagoda among other hidden gems. For an unforgettable night, catch the Greater Tang Show to see dazzling performances that channel Xi’an’s imperial past. Day 3: Terracotta Army - It’s about an hour from city center and gets quite crowded by midday. Beat the lines for jaw-dropping first glimpses of those endless clay warriors. #terracottaarmy #xiancitywall #xian #historicallandmarks

Super fun city with a blend of epic history and futuristic tech vibes – Xi’an is seriously next-level! 🚀 Day 1: Dive into ancient wonders by spending the whole day exploring the world-famous Terracotta Army and soaking in the luxe hot springs at Huaqing Palace. Pro tip: The “Song of Everlasting Sorrow” night show at Huaqing Palace (No. 38 Huaqing Road, Lintong District) is a total must-see – book tickets early because this legendary drama gets booked up fast! You can save some 💸 by hopping on the metro between spots. Hungry? There are tons of foodie hotspots right outside the Terracotta Army museum and in front of Huaqing Palace—sooo convenient! Day 2: Start your morning by hitting up Xi’an City Wall (The city center of Xi'an, Shaanxi Province). Rent a bike and cruise the whole old-school wall for those classic, Insta-worthy views! 🚲 Open year round from 08:00-22:00 (tickets are 54 RMB). After biking, grab lunch and go shopping at 中贸广场 mall—perfect for some retail therapy. Afternoon plans? Check out the iconic Drum Tower and Bell Tower, then snap some legendary night pics when the lights are glowing. ✨ If you’ve still got energy, take a chill night walk at Ever Bright City, where the vibes are amazing and the city lights will blow your mind. Foodie Alert! Don’t sleep on the crawfish at 肥肥虾庄·金牌油焖大虾(高新店) (Address: 高新一路创业大厦1层001号). They serve up insanely tasty dishes that are perfect for ending your day on a yummy note. 😋 Xi’an: The hotspot where ancient legends meet high-tech life!

Discovered in 1974 near Xi’an, the Terracotta Army is one of the greatest archaeological finds of the 20th century. Buried for over 2,000 years, these life-sized warriors, horses, and chariots were created to protect China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, in the afterlife. Today, this UNESCO World Heritage Site stands as a mesmerizing testament to ancient craftsmanship and imperial ambition. Highlights to explore: • ⚔️ Pit 1 – The largest excavation hall, showcasing thousands of infantry soldiers in battle formation. • 🐴 Pit 2 – Features cavalry, archers, and intricate military units. • 🚪 Pit 3 – The command post of the army, with officers and generals. • 🏛️ Museum Exhibits – Learn about Qin Dynasty history, weapons, and restoration efforts. How to Reach: • ✈️ Fly into Xi’an Xianyang International Airport. • 🚆 From Xi’an city, take a bus or taxi (around 1 hour) to the Terracotta Warriors site in Lintong District. • 🚌 Tourist buses (No. 306, 914, 915) run daily from Xi’an Railway Station. Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for pleasant weather and smaller crowds. Mornings are best for avoiding tour groups. #TerracottaArmy #Xian #UNESCO #ChinaHistory #TripMoments

Visiting the Terracotta Army is a highlight of any Xi’an trip. But should you go with a tour, or explore on your own? Here’s what you need to know. ✨ By Tour • Most hotels and agencies in Xi’an offer half-day or full-day tours, including transfers and guides. • Great if you want in-depth explanations and zero hassle. • Downsides: fixed schedules, souvenir stops, and less flexibility. Some guides also want you to watch shows (separate payment) to “better understand the history” and those take up lots of time. ✨ DIY Visit • Super easy! From Xi’an city, tourist buses run regularly from train stations and major hubs straight to the Terracotta Museum. The ride takes about an hour. • Entry tickets can be booked online, and English audio guides are available. • Gives you full freedom to spend more time at Pit 1 or explore at your own pace. Most importantly you can take your time to take photos once a group clears up rather than take photos with many heads (your tour group members) as you have to follow your tour group closely. ✨ Insider Tip — Combine With Qinghuagong (华清宫) • At the Terracotta Museum compound, you can book Qinghuagong tickets directly if time and energy permits. • Staff will help arrange a shuttle transfer from the museum to 华清宫, making it seamless to visit both sites in a single trip. You just pay for the ticket price without paying separate cab fares for transfer. • Perfect if you want to pair ancient imperial grandeur with Taoist cultural heritage in one day. 💡 Tips • ⏳ Allow 3–4 hours for the museum; add extra time if combining with 华清宫. • 🕘 Go early to avoid crowds. • 🚍 DIY buses are reliable and cheap — great for budget or independent travelers. (I followed a tour, realize how much “time-fillers” there are and left the group halfway to enjoy more time freedom. ✨ Bottom Line • Choose a tour if you want storytelling and convenience. • Go DIY if you prefer flexibility and don’t mind navigating on your own — Xi’an makes it surprisingly easy! #mytraveldiary #chinatravel #xian #terracottawarriors #unescoheritage #qinghuagong #兵马俑

The must have place to visit in Xi'an. Unreal and unforgotten experience! It's hard to believe that all this place was created 2350 years ago!

One of most interestingly places on China is in Xi’an

#holidayitinerary (The Construction of the Terracotta Warriors: 'Imperial Standardization' and the Immortal Military Soul in Clay and Fire) This was not an art project; it was an industrial-scale act of immortality. The creation of the Terracotta Army was a monumental feat of organization, technology, and labor management, mirroring the military precision of the Qin dynasty itself. Each of the nearly 8,000 figures was not merely sculpted but engineered—a testament to a centralized imperial workshop that could mass-produce individuality on an unprecedented scale. The process was a symphony of specialized labor, a clay assembly line for the afterlife: 🔥 The Imperial Workshop System: Established near the mausoleum site, this was a state-owned factory complex employing thousands of artisans, each with a specific task. It was a production line centuries before the concept existed. 🧱 Modular Assembly: Warriors were not sculpted from a single block of clay. They were assembled from separately crafted parts: legs, torso, arms, head, and hands. This allowed for efficient production and the creation of varied poses. ⚙️ Standardization & Variation: The Qin perfected a system of standardized parts combined with custom details. While torsos might follow a few basic models, the heads, faces, hairstyles, and expressions were uniquely hand-finished, ensuring no two warriors are exactly alike.

#asiabudgetchallenge 📍 Destination: Xi’an, China 💴 Budget: ~$8 USD 💡 Travel Tip: Skip private taxis and take the public bus from the city for just a few yuan. 📝 Seeing the Terracotta Warriors in person was surreal. The entry ticket cost about ¥60 ($1). The scale of the site is jaw-dropping. Don’t rush — take time to really explore all the pits and exhibitions. #asiabudgetchallenge

#JulyGoodPlace2025 #Xi'an #Huaqingchi #Big Wild Goose Pagoda #Xi'anAttractions Everlasting Sorrow Square, Huaqing Palace, Xi'an Incident, historical sites, the story of Yang Guifei, historical tour, worth a visit, recalling the stories of the time. Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a Tang Dynasty building, is well maintained and is a landmark of Xi'an. It is said to be related to the origin of Buddhism. The park is quite large and you can walk around slowly. #ChinaTourism #Tang DynastyArchitecture

#freemuseumdays Xi’an, one of China’s most historically rich cities, is home to numerous museums that showcase its ancient heritage. Many of these museums offer free admission on certain days, making them accessible to both locals and tourists. Below is a detailed guide to free entry policies at Xi’an’s major museums in 2025. 1. Xi’an Museum (Xi’an博物院) – Always Free The Xi’an Museum, located near the Small Wild Goose Pagoda (小雁塔), is permanently free to enter, except for special exhibitions. It houses artifacts from Xi’an’s 3,000-year history, including Tang Dynasty relics. Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (last entry at 5:00 PM) Closed: Mondays (except national holidays) Reservation Required: Yes (via official WeChat or website) 2. Shaanxi History Museum (陕西历史博物馆) – Free Basic Entry One of China’s top museums, the Shaanxi History Museum, offers free admission to its basic exhibition (pre-booking required). However, special exhibits like the Treasure Hall (¥30) and Tang Dynasty Murals Hall (¥270) require tickets. Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM (summer), 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (winter) Closed: Mondays Reservation Difficulty: High (book 3-7 days in advance) 3. Xi’an Beilin Museum (碑林博物馆) – First Wednesday of Each Month The Forest of Stone Steles Museum (Xi’an Beilin Museum) houses ancient Chinese calligraphy and stone carvings. It offers free entry on the first Wednesday of every month (e.g., July 2, August 6, etc.). Normal Ticket Price: ¥65 Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM (summer), 8:00 AM – 5:45 PM (winter) 4. Terracotta Warriors Museum (兵马俑) – Rare Free Days The Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum (Terracotta Army) rarely has free admission days. However, International Museum Day (May 18) and China’s Cultural Heritage Day (June’s second Saturday) sometimes offer discounts or free entry. Normal Ticket Price: ¥120 (includes Terracotta Pits & Emperor’s Tomb) 5. Other Museums with Free Days Banpo Museum (半坡博物馆): Free on International Museum Day (May 18) Hanyang Ling Museum (汉阳陵): Occasionally free during cultural festivals Tang West Market Museum (大唐西市博物馆): Free basic exhibition Tips for Visiting Free Museums in Xi’an Book Early: Free tickets for Shaanxi History Museum and Xi’an Museum sell out quickly. Bring ID: Free entry often requires a passport or Chinese ID card. Avoid Peak Times: Weekends and holidays are crowded. Check Official Websites: Policies may change; verify before visiting. While Xi’an Museum is always free, others like Shaanxi History Museum and Beilin Museum have specific free days. The Terracotta Warriors rarely offer free entry, so planning ahead is essential. By understanding these policies, travelers can explore Xi’an’s rich history without overspending.

One of our bucket lists. Just an incredible place to visit. Huge and crowded. A lot if walk.

🏮Xi'an is rich in history and culture. Once known as Chang’an (Eternal Peace), it marks the Silk Road’s eastern end and was home to the Zhou, Qin, Han and Tang dynasties' ruling houses. 🌺Must-Visit Attractions 📌Terracotta Army of Qin Shihuang 🗿 Xi'an is a historical and cultural city that's home to one of the eight wonders of the world – the Terracotta Army. 📍Xi'an Bell and Drum Towers 🥁 🔔 Between the morning and night view, prefer the view at night cos this girlie loves bright/colourful lighting 😆 📌Datang Everbright City 🪭 A whole city street illuminated by lights at night and with mountain sea of visitors. 📍Xi'an City Wall 🏰 a well preserved wall with scenic walk. However, walking takes 3-4 hours. This girlie Opted to Cycle along the ancient walls! This girlie is old and tired 🥹 📌HuaShan mountain 🏔️ this is the viral scenic view for the most dangerous mountain in the world Go and experience if you are curious. I Took the west up and west down route. This route is not dangerous compare to other routes as this girlie has weak knees 🥲 🌼Recommended food 💕Biang Biang noodles 🍜 💕Lychee shrimp 🍤 💕Cold noodles🍝 💕Dumpling🥟 💕Gourd chicken 🐔 #travel #cwnanaexplores #china #xian

Amazing time at the terracotta warriors!

#discoverchina The Terracotta Army is a remarkable cultural treasure and a must-visit attraction for anyone traveling to Xi'an. It not only represents an extraordinary artistic achievement but also offers profound insights into China's ancient history. It is located near Xi'an, in Shaanxi Province, China. Discovered in 1974 by local farmers, the Terracotta Army is believed to be the burial site of Qin Shi Huang. The Terracotta Army was created to accompany Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife, reflecting his belief in a life after death. The army consists of thousands of life-sized figures, including warriors, horses, chariots, and more, which were meant to protect him in the afterlife. #couplestrip #travel #naturalwonders #thingstodo

3 day itinerary for Xi’an City Stay 3 nights in Xi’an to see the historical relics. Check out the Qianxun Garden View Hotel for a comfortable stay. #chinatrip #localguides #mytravelhacks ____________________ Day 1 - Terra cotta army museum. Check out pit 1 and the smaller pits to get a sense of the ancient army underground. There are large crowds at the main door. Keep a small bag and travel lightly. A hand sized camera is best for photography. Day 2 - day trip to Luoyang and walk through Longmen grottoes. Find hundreds of sandstone carvings of Buddhist stories. (Ride the high speed train to Luoyang station.) Day 3 - Step to the top of Wild Goose Pagoda. Learn about the history of this marvelous site. Find how India and China were connected by the Silk Road. Attractions Xi’an museum Drum tower Museum district

#discoverchina Exploring the Terracotta Warriors and Shaanxi History Museum in Xi’an was a journey into ancient Chinese history. The awe-inspiring Terracotta Army, with its meticulously crafted soldiers, horses, and chariots, showcased the grandeur of Emperor Qin Shi Huang's tomb and his vision of immortality. The Shaanxi History Museum complemented this visit perfectly, offering a rich collection of artifacts spanning centuries, from jade carvings to Tang Dynasty treasures. Together, these cultural landmarks brought Xi’an’s incredible historical legacy to life.

Visited the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an — what an unbelievable experience! Standing face to face with thousands of life-sized soldiers, each with unique features, was like stepping back in time. The history, the scale, the energy of the place… absolutely unforgettable!

Visiting Xi’an’s Terracotta Army was simply incredible. Standing in front of thousands of intricately detailed warriors, each uniquely crafted, felt surreal and unforgettable. The scale and history behind these ancient sculptures left us speechless. Arriving early helped us beat the crowds and fully appreciate the experience. If you’re traveling through China, this archaeological marvel is a must-see—truly a once-in-a-lifetime encounter! #thingstodo #travel #china

Weekend in Xi’an Eat at Aihua Kudai noodle restaurant- you won’t be disappointed. Bike around the city Explore the great mosque and surrounding areas Walk on the Xi’an wall Go see the ever lasting sorrow show - this is out of the city Go see the Terracotta warriors - go early Explore Datang everbright city at night (gets very crowded)

Xi'an is in the full bloom. 🌸 The Bell Tower, The Mosque and the Wall are divine. Not to forget the Terra-cotta warriers. The whole city is waking up from the cold winter. The smells of good food from the muslim quarter are bringing the spring into food stands. Everything is so much vibrant than in the past couple of months. Spring came to Xi'an. You should come too. 🇨🇳🤗❤️#springwander #discoverchina

amazing historical site with ongoing restoration, a must see sight in Xi-an , look at the warriors faces and imagine them fully painted in battle formation wielding weapons at the ready with the horses harnessed to ornate chariots. after over 2000 years they still amaze and command respect #xian #terracottawarriors

Right outside Terracotta Warriors, was a shopping village market with lots of stores. While on our way for lunch (Yes! There’s a Halal Muslim restaurant and i forgot to take a pic) we pass by this stall selling hot ginger coke to warm up in the winter. Kids love it. Lucky our tour guide brought us there. There was a farmer who was present to do book signing in the market. Apparently he was said to be one of the 9 who found the buried warriors. However I researched online and saw that his name was not even listed, so not sure who he is. You can support his book 📕 sale for reading reference on the history. If you’re coming from a neighbourhood carpark towards the Terracotta Warriors Museum, you will see vendors selling animal fur 😣 please don’t buy as they are illegally poached.

Interestingly, all the soldiers are a form of funerary art buried with Qin Shi Huang, with the purpose of protecting him in his afterlife. Each sculpture is unique in its own way with the hat the soldier is wearing, their height, and their facial appearance. The figures, including chariots, horses and warriors, vary in height according to their rank, the tallest being the generals. The restoration area where they make life-sized terracotta figures according to real persons’ figures and facial appearances. They are usually famous Chinese actors, stars, politicians or officials. One figure even closely resembled the Chinese NBA Basketball star Yao Ming. One must visit this museum and see one of the most amazing archaeological findings in 20th century.

兵马俑was one of the famous tourist attractions must visit when you in Xi'An. Try to come on weekdays or non peak season. Entry fees are required,can. get it from trip.com especially it have the option of a half day tour or a tour guide for u and explain. It is advisable to get I as a package so the tour guide can explain the history and the environment. The package I get from trip.com includes Hua Qing palace and a meal! Highly recommend visiting these 2 places You will be amazed by the view

Spend about 3 hours exploring the whole area. Stunning museum. I bought my ticket from wechat mini program for 120 Yuan. Went from bell tower to museum directly but shuttle bus.

#terracottawarriors #xian Truly an 8th wonder of the world! The magnitude of this installation can only be understood, when seen! A short taxi ride from Xi‘an (took bus and metro back - equally simple, but about double the time). St first a bit stressed to miss the timeslot of the ticket, but apparently this is only indicative and not binding 😅 The audioguide is OK, but not the best that can be done. It was probably recently switched from number entering ro NFC or Bluetooth activated and hence does not always kick in, when useful. Still - get it as it does give you some insights not noted on the signboards. A MUST see location!