Terracotta Army in Xi’an: Walk Among Ancient Warriors

If you are curious about Xi’an, China, and want to see the famous Terracotta Army, this guide will help you learn about one of the world’s most amazing archaeological sites. Near Xi’an city center and its airport, you can find many guesthouses and local eateries offering tasty Shaanxi food, like hand-pulled noodles and roujiamo, a kind of Chinese sandwich. Getting to the Terracotta Army site is easy by bus, taxi, or train from Xi’an’s main train station or airport. This post will share insider knowledge about how to get there, the best times to visit, interesting history, and useful visiting tips.

How to Reach the Terracotta Army Site

The Terracotta Army is located about 40 kilometers east of Xi’an city. Travelers can reach the site by several transport options:

• Bus: From Xi’an city center, take bus number 306 or 914 directly to the museum. It usually takes about one hour.
• Taxi or Ride-Hailing: A taxi ride from downtown Xi’an costs around 100 RMB, and the drive takes about 45 minutes.
• Train: From Xi’an North Railway Station, you can take a direct train or shuttle that stops near the site. Check schedules in advance, as they vary.

The Terracotta Army Museum is well signposted once outside the city. There is a large parking lot for visitors arriving by private car.

Best Times and Days to Visit Terracotta Army

Timing your visit can make all the difference. The Terracotta Army is one of China’s most popular tourist spots, which can mean crowds, especially during holidays and weekends.

Ideal Visiting Months

Try to visit during the spring (April to June) or autumn (September to November), when the weather is comfortable and not too hot or cold. Summer is hot and crowded with school groups, while winter is chilly with fewer visitors.

Weekday Advantage

Weekdays are much quieter than weekends. Arriving early in the morning right when the site opens helps you avoid the largest crowds and enjoy the exhibits without rush.

History and Importance of the Terracotta Army

The Terracotta Army was built more than 2,200 years ago to protect Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China, in the afterlife. The army consists of thousands of life-sized soldiers, horses, and chariots made from clay. Each figure is unique, with detailed faces and armor, showing the great skill of ancient craftsmen.

This army was discovered accidentally in 1974 by farmers digging a well. Since then, it has become a symbol of China’s rich history and military strength.

Learning about the Xi’an City Wall gives a great view into China’s ancient city defense, complementing the Terracotta Army’s story. See Xi’an City Wall Guide to explore this historic fortress.

For a broader view of museum tours, consider the detailed insights about The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, showcasing global history through art.

Did you know that the warriors were originally painted in bright colors? Over time, the paint faded after exposure to air, but modern technology is helping preserve these details.

What to See and Do at the Terracotta Army Museum

The museum site has three large pits where the warriors were found. Pit 1 is the biggest and most impressive, showing rows of soldiers standing in battle formation.

If you are interested in China’s rich cultural heritage beyond the Terracotta Army, the Yu Garden in Shanghai offers a historic garden experience showcasing traditional Chinese art and design.

Besides the pits, the museum offers:

• A bronze chariot and horse exhibition.
• Explanations of the excavation process and archaeological discoveries.
• A small theater presenting a documentary about Qin Shi Huang and the army’s history.

Take time to read the signs and listen to the audio guides available in several languages. They provide fascinating stories about how these warriors were made and the emperor’s vision.

Booking Tours and Reservation Details

While it is possible to visit the Terracotta Army independently, many visitors choose guided tours to better understand the site’s depth. Tours can be booked through local agencies or online, often including transportation from Xi’an city and English-speaking guides.

Reservation is not always mandatory, but in peak seasons, advance tickets can save waiting time. It’s a good idea to check the official museum website before your trip for the latest ticket information and opening hours.

Official Website: Terracotta Army Museum

Insider Tips to Enjoy the Visit

Here are some practical tips to make your trip smoother and more enjoyable:

• Wear comfortable shoes: You will walk a lot on uneven paths.
• Bring a hat and water: The site is mostly outdoors with limited shade.
• Photography: Allowed in most areas, but avoid flash photography which can damage the figures.
• Local snacks: Try the nearby vendors’ local specialties after touring to get a taste of Shaanxi cuisine.
• Plan at least 3 hours: The site is large, and rushing will mean missing many details.

Nearby Attractions and Good Places to Stay

After visiting the Terracotta Army, you might want to relax in one of the guesthouses or small hotels near the site. These accommodations offer a calm atmosphere away from the busy city.

Close to the museum, you can also visit the Qin Shi Huang Mausoleum, which is still mostly underground but fascinating for history lovers.

Back in Xi’an city, the Muslim Quarter is famous for its vibrant local food markets and cultural experiences, perfect for an evening after your archaeological day.

Author: Elena Chen

A Chinese tour guide with deep knowledge of the Far East, its traditions, and culinary secrets.