When looking for things to do in Xi’an, visitors should expect a completely different experience from any other city in China. From its red lantern-lined streets to delicious foods, colorful people, and lively energy, it is truly a world away from the somber and more contained vibe found in the nation’s capital, Beijing. If Beijing is the serious big brother, then Xi’an is its cheeky, more youthful sibling.
So why the difference?
Without the politics of imperial rule being a part of daily life in Beijing in recent centuries, Xi’an’s focus could be directed elsewhere. Historically, business boomed here, not least because it was once a pivot point between East and West; a veritable turnstile through which travelers and merchants passed before journeying along the mysterious and exciting Silk Road; or heading back home with spices, tea, ceramics, and silks in hand. This commercial pedigree is woven into all aspects of Xi’an. Even today the city remains a melting pot of people, culture, traditions, religions, and cuisines. These can be found at the heart of the city where your explorations should start, as well as further afield in other Silk Road destinations sustained over centuries through enterprise, innovation, and resilience.
In modern times, Xi’an’s fate as a must-see city in China was sealed with the discovery of the Terracotta Army by local farmers in 1974. Now at the top of most visitors’ Xi’an bucket list, you’d be forgiven for thinking that’s all there is here, but this guide on things to do in Xi’an will set things straight. We have consulted with our trusty local guides on the ground whose love of their city is parallelled only by their enthusiasm of sharing it with you.
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Holy highlights and historical high notes
There is no doubt that Xi’an, located in the Shaanxi province, is rich in history, but where to start? Long before Beijing emerged as China’s imperial home, Xi’an took pride of place as the Qin dynasty capital. Yes, there are many big things in China, however, Emperor Qin really set the tone for things with his commissioning of the Terracotta Army and Great Wall. And while the world’s largest underground army may dominate your knowledge of Xi’an now, our guide will open your eyes to an entirely different perspective. Read on to learn more about what this fascinating city has to offer.
Terracotta Army
Terracotta Army
Xi’an City Wall
Xi’an City Wall
Shaanxi History Museum
Shaanxi History Museum
Big Wild Goose Pagoda
Big Wild Goose Pagoda
The Great Mosque of Xi’an
The Great Mosque of Xi’an
Bell and Drum Tower
Bell and Drum Tower
Small Wild Goose Pagoda
Small Wild Goose Pagoda
Stone Steles Museum (Beilin Museum)
Stone Steles Museum (Beilin Museum)
Xi’an Museum
Xi’an Museum
Mount Hua
Mount Hua
Famen Temple
Famen Temple
Han Yang Ling (Yang Mausoleum of Han)
Han Yang Ling (Yang Mausoleum of Han)
Things to do in Xi'an at night
When the sun goes down after a day of exploring Xi’an there’s no need to stop the adventure. There are so many things to do in Xi’an at night that the hardest decision you’ll have is what to enjoy first. Here at ChinaTours.com, we are food lovers at heart, but we also love anything handmade, bespoke, and beautiful, so in this section, we share our insider secrets on how to make the very most of Xi’an at night.
Xi'an Night Markets
Night markets in Xi’an have a reputation that extends well beyond the City Wall. In fact, across China, Xi’an’s night markets - which are essentially food markets - are famous. Think of them as havens for a myriad of flavorsome eats that you’re unlikely to find anywhere else in China or the world. From flatbreads to simmers, stews, noodles, meat in every form, dumplings, pastries, and desserts, the night markets provide insight into the variety and flavors that is Shaanxi cuisine. But it’s not all food. Anyone searching for curios, travel mementos, and just wants a chance to mix among the locals for a real experience of China, throw on your backpack and make your way to one of Xi'an’s fabulous night markets.
Dongxin Street Night Market
Dongxin Street Night Market is Xi’an’s largest night market and one you definitely want to arrive at hungry. With a history spanning more than three decades, you will find over 200 stalls selling Halal food on one side and other foods, including dried fruit and nuts stalls on the opposite side. Our recommendation? The so-called ‘Three Amazing Things on Dongxin Street’: Chen Family Hui Cai (a type of beef meatball and vegetable stew); Zheng Family stuffed buns or (bao); and Wang Family chicken.
Night Markets in the Muslim Quarter
Located at the center of Xi’an city, the Muslim Quarter is home to over 60,000 local Hui and Han people. Here you will find streets that not only attract tourists from all over the world but local Xi'anese too who are devoted to delicious food and an atmosphere at night that will keep you up well past your regular bedtime. There are several streets in this precinct that should make your list: Beiyuanmen Night Market, Damaishi Street Night Market, Dapiyuan Night Market, and Beiguangji Street Night Market. Expect local people, authentic food, and a memorable culinary experience you’ll carry with you forever.
Sajinqiao Night Market
Sajinqiao Night Market is an 800-meter foodie’s heaven. Whether it’s hidden by design because locals love it so much, or because most travelers don’t know about it, Sajinqiao Night Market is the quintessential food lover’s paradise. Discover time-honored restaurants and stalls selling authentic food only locals know. Be sure to add these Sajinqiao specialties to your order: hot pepper soup hulatang, hot and sour dumpling soup suantang shuijiao, kebab kaorou, and lamb or beef soup with flatbread paomo.
Yongxing Fang
Designed to satisfy the traveler to Xi'an, Yongxing Fang is a showcase of almost every local Shaanxi delicacy; you can quite literally find just about every conceivable local specialty. Located at the Zhong Shan Gate (just north of East Gate), it’s here you can sample a little dramatic art too with the area lit up at night with gorgeous red lanterns. Another point of difference? The buildings at Yongxing Fang are laid out to reflect that of the Tang Dynasty’s ancient capital, providing visitors with a unique window into 108 fang or quarters from over 1,300 years ago.
Xiaonanmen Night Market
Are you a traveler who likes to avoid the ‘madding crowd’? Then Xiaonanmen Night Market is for you. More like a local’s secret hideaway for delicious food, Xiaonanmen Night Market is where you can visit the city’s famous restaurants for hulutou, paomo, peppery chicken, kebab, and stir-fried noodles. Mix with locals when dining and enjoy the many cafes, bars and handicraft shops here too. And if you’re not a night owl, no problem. Locals frequent the market early morning too, which runs from 5.00 am to 9.00 am and supplies locals with their daily essentials.
Dachejia Xiang
Regarded as the best place for noodles in Xi’an (no small claim!), Dachejia Xiang is an alley located close to the South Gate of Xi’an City Wall. Discover an abundant choice of different noodles in the restaurants here. From soup noodles to noodles with sauces, braised pork belly with noodles, hot oil noodles, stir-fried noodles, beef noodles, and more. What’s more, you will be blown away by the different types of noodles: Hand-torn noodles, thin but al dente noodles, hand-pulled thick noodle ‘pieces’, extra wide ‘belt’ noodles, and rice noodles. And if noodles are not your thing, don’t despair. There are many other tasty foods available here. Dishes like boiled meatball soup with vegetables, dumplings, hulatang, skewers, malatang, and smoked meat with flatbread are popular choices with locals. Simply follow their lead for a delicious meal, day or night.
Shows and Concerts in Xi'an
Food isn’t all there is to enjoy in Xi’an. While visiting, make it your mission to enjoy a show or two. This is the perfect way to learn a little about Chinese and local Shaanxi culture and history. Expect theatrical drama with no shortage of conspiracies, betrayal, and thwarted love and performances steeped in an appreciation of the rich history that is China.
Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Show
Even local Chinese people have difficulty navigating their way through the various dynasties and their dramas, but the Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Show will clear things up for one dynasty at least. Now considered Xi’an’s premier tourism product, the show was first launched in September 1982. Experience the Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Show at the Tang Dynasty Palace, or the Shaanxi Grand Opera House.
Song of Everlasting Sorrow (Chang Hen Ge)
Although its title may cause you to question buying a ticket, for an experience of what is really a uniquely Chinese performance style - the seriously big outdoor performance spectacle - you can’t go past Song of Everlasting Sorrow when visiting Xi’an. Performed on the site of the original Tang dynasty’s Huangqing Palace in Lintong (30 kilometers from Xi’an), the 70-minute historical dance drama is a reproduction based on the literary masterpiece Chang Hen Ge composed by the famous poet Bai Juyi. The story is based on the romance between Emperor Tang Xuanzong and his favorite concubine, Lady Yang Yuhuan.
Chang’an Impression
Chang’an Impression - also referred to auspiciously as the Tang Dynasty Grand Welcoming Ceremony - is a fascinating performance held at the South City Gate of the Xi’an City Wall. Involving over 300 performers, the show tells the story of the Tang dynasty over five acts. Elaborate costumes, amazing lighting, and a sense of occasion will certainly leave an impression just as its name suggests.
Light Shows and Other Performances
More than their love of evening light shows, the Chinese love sharing their love of light shows, so it just seems right to include one among the things you’ll do while visiting Xi’an, where there is even a dedicated venue for them, namely Datang Everbright City, a 2,100-meter long pedestrian mall. By night, the mall is repurposed as a venue to showcase traditional Chinese art, including poetry reading, dance, float, the famous roly-poly performance, folk customs, and much more.
Sights by Night
Part of Xi’an’s appeal is the fact you can enjoy as much of the city by night as you can by day. Some would argue it’s even more enjoyable after the sun goes down and it’s hard to disagree when Xi’an lights up after dark. If you decide to step out at night, make sure you have the following sights on your list.
Bell Tower and Drum Tower
Regarded as the city’s breathing heart, the Bell Tower and Drum Tower will not disappoint if you catch them at night. Lit up stunningly, come prepared to take loads of photos.
North Square of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda
Catch the daily musical fountain and light show here; the largest in Asia.
Datang Everbright City
Using the Tang dynasty as its backdrop, this corner of Xi’an is a one-stop destination for dining, shopping, entertainment, leisure, sightseeing, and commerce.
City Wall and South Gate
Visit the Xi’an City Wall and South Gate at night and enjoy an altogether completely different experience from its daytime appearance. Photo opportunities abound.
Unique Experiences in Xi'an
Are you a traveler who wants the kind of experience that’s just a little different? We hear you. No serious traveler with a passion for discovering the authentic essence of a place will settle for less, and it’s with this understanding we’ve curated this shortlist of unique experiences in Xi’an. Whether you fancy a step back in time trying your hand at crafting your own terracotta soldier or horse, or a peek into the culinary dishes of the Qin dynasty, we can make it happen. And if your interest still isn’t piqued, don’t despair. Get in touch and we’ll share even more insider tips on how to make your trip to China the once-in-a-lifetime adventure it should be.
Testimonials
- kraig l wrote a review 7 October 2024
A Day in Xi’an with CathyI really enjoyed my recent private tour with China Tours! I remembered I took a China Tours about 13 years ago in Beijing and since I had a long weekend during a recent business trip, I decided to take the chance on them again and booked on-line. Working with Martha via email on short notice and right before the National Holiday, she was able to arrange a 1-day private trip for me to the Terracotta Warriors, Mosque, and the Xi'an Wall with Cathy K. as my tour guide. Even before my tour began, Cathy reached out to me and gave suggested a few sites to visit in the city the afternoon I arrived. Morning of, pick up time was confirmed via WeChat and Cathy picked me up in a nice minivan and was escorted all day by a VERY knowledgeable tour guide in Cathy. She knew the tour well, the sites visited and their history, shared many welcoming stories and information. Her English was almost perfect and welcoming after a long business trip. More importantly, she knew her city well and made several great food recommendations - local lunch was amazing and so were the pomegranates! She even helped me purchase some jade necklaces as gifts. Although it rained all day long, Cathy kept the tour upbeat and engaging - cannot say that about my sneakers that did not make the trip home. The next day, Cathy went the extra mile by making sure I made it to the airport and my flight chatting me Chinese phrases for both the taxi driver and check in counter to ensure if needed I would not miss my flight. I would like to give a BIG "XIE XIE" to CATHY K - an outstanding tour guide (and food connoisseur)! I very much enjoyed my day (wishing I had longer) and look forward to my return and another China Tours tour with hopefully Cathy K again. - Steven P wrote a review 2 October 2024
Amazing Trip with China Tours 2024China is an amazing country to visit, and China Tours did an excellent job planning and arranging our itinerary. They handled all of the transportation and bookings for the hotels and sites. We went on the 12 day tour that included Beijing, Xi’an, Chengdu, Guilin and Shanghai. At each location we had knowledgeable local guide and there was ample free time to explore on our own. The accommodations were all 4-5 stars hotels in great locations and excellent breakfast. - PVR wrote a review 14 September 2024
I loved China, thanks to China tours and MarthaI am writing to thank Martha and team for our wonderful trip to China, we had an amazing time. I am already thinking of my next trip to come with my husband and kids. All your guides were exceptional, everyone. I would love to come again with my family and have Kevin and Julia show us Beijing and Xian, hopefully we can book something with their availability. Thank you again for taking care of every little detail, we felt cared and at home. Appreciate all what your team did for us, your guides definitely did it with genuine care ❤️. Will be getting in touch with you again. I loved China and thanks to China tours. Anyone looking for their first trip to this amazing country, don’t think twice China tours will not disspoint you. - Bhumika P wrote a review 4 September 2024
Highly recommend China Tours!I was recommended China tours through a family friend. Lora was amazing and nothing was too much trouble for her. She devised an itinerary based on my needs. I asked many questions and received prompt replies. We had a driver and English-speaking tour guide in each area. I would highly recommend China tours to anyone wishing to travel to China. - Frank O wrote a review 15 August 2024New YorkBucket List Memorable Trip !First, we would like to thanked Martha for her great organizational skills, very accommodating and understanding as we have to postponed our trip from March to July 2024. The trips were very well organized. All the tour guides from Kevin in Beijing, Helen in Xi’an and John in Shanghai were all very professional, Knowledgeable about the historical aspects of each place, very kind and accommodating. Everything was great and enjoyable, except the weather was not cooperating, it’s too hot and humid. Thank-you all ! From New York, Frank and Aida
- rehana wrote a review 11 August 2024LondonAmazing Solo Break!I had an amazing time in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, with a fantastic guide Frank. He was able to arrange all my halal meals, recommend restaurants and even stopped for lunch at a particular halal cafe. Frank was outstanding in all areas of knowledge, history of the area, what to see and answered all my questions. Thank you for everything and especially sorting out my return airline meals. Absolutely brilliant! Keven and Rita in Beijing were just as good. They were able to arrange the tours which were easy for us, away from the main crowds and as it was humid, worked perfectly! Again, thank you for all your suggestions and help. This is my second trip with China Tours and I am looking for my third! Rehana, London