China Trip Guides

Appearance

Exploring Xi'an: Your Ultimate Travel Guide ​

Xi'an Travel Guide ​

1. Introduction to Xi'an ​

Xi'an, one of the oldest cities in China, is rich in history and culture. It was the starting point of the Silk Road and served as the capital for several dynasties, notably the Tang Dynasty. Today, Xi'an is famous for its incredible historical sites, vibrant street food scene, and the unique blend of ancient and modern life.

2. Top Attractions ​

Terracotta Army ​

  • Overview: Discovered in 1974, the Terracotta Army is a collection of thousands of life-sized figures buried with the first Emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang, to protect him in the afterlife.
  • What to See:
    • Pit 1: The largest pit with over 6,000 soldiers.
    • Pits 2 and 3: Feature chariots and an array of warriors.
    • The museum: Provides insights into the excavation process and the history of the Qin Dynasty.
  • Tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds and consider hiring a guide for a more in-depth understanding.

City Wall ​

  • Overview: One of the best-preserved ancient city walls in China, built during the Ming Dynasty.
  • What to Do:
    • Rent a bike and ride along the 13.7 km (8.5 miles) wall for stunning views of the city.
    • Explore the various gates and towers.
    • Visit in the evening for a beautiful illuminated view.
  • Tips: Purchase tickets in advance to skip the lines.

Muslim Quarter ​

  • Overview: A bustling area that showcases the rich Islamic culture in Xi'an, featuring narrow streets lined with food stalls and shops.
  • What to Experience:
    • Sample local snacks and street food.
    • Visit the Great Mosque, one of the largest mosques in China, blending Chinese and Islamic architecture.
    • Shop for souvenirs and handicrafts.
  • Tips: Go in the evening for a lively atmosphere and try the local delicacies.

3. Local Cuisine ​

Roujiamo ​

  • Description: Often referred to as a "Chinese hamburger," it consists of chopped meat (usually pork or beef) in a flatbread bun.
  • Recommendation: Try it from a street vendor for an authentic taste.

Biang Biang Noodles ​

  • Description: Known for their wide, hand-pulled noodles, served with a variety of toppings including chili oil and vegetables.
  • Recommendation: Look for local noodle shops where you can watch the noodles being made.

Yangrou Paomo ​

  • Description: A traditional lamb soup served with crumbled flatbread. It’s hearty and perfect for colder days.
  • Recommendation: Visit a local restaurant specializing in this dish for the best experience.

4. Practical Tips ​

Booking Trips Using Ctrip and Booking.com ​

  • Ctrip: A popular platform for booking flights, hotels, and tours in China. Ensure you have a Chinese phone number for verification.
  • Booking.com: Offers a wide range of accommodations. Filter your search for properties that accept credit cards and provide English support.

Making Payments with Alipay ​

  • Setup: Download the Alipay app and link it to your bank account or credit card. It's widely accepted in stores and restaurants.
  • Tips: Some vendors may not accept foreign cards, so having Alipay set up can be very convenient.

Using Google Translate for Language Assistance ​

  • Download the App: Make sure to download the Google Translate app before your trip. It can work offline if you download the required languages.
  • Tips: Use the camera feature to translate menus and signs easily.

Using Didi for Taxi Services ​

  • Download the App: Didi is the Chinese equivalent of Uber. Make sure to register and set it up before your trip.
  • Tips: Use the in-app translation feature to communicate with drivers if needed.

Internet Access and VPN Considerations ​

  • VPN Setup: Due to internet restrictions in China, download and set up a reliable VPN before arriving to access blocked websites and apps.
  • SIM Card: Consider purchasing a local SIM card for data access while traveling.

5. Sample Itinerary ​

Day 1: Arrival in Xi'an ​

  • Arrive and check into your hotel.
  • Visit the Muslim Quarter for dinner and street food.

Day 2: Historical Highlights ​

  • Morning: Explore the Terracotta Army.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Huaqing Hot Springs.
  • Evening: Relax at the City Wall and bike around.

Day 3: Cultural Immersion ​

  • Morning: Visit the Great Mosque and explore the Muslim Quarter.
  • Afternoon: Try Biang Biang noodles for lunch.
  • Evening
Xi'an Skyline

Note: This image is for illustrative purposes only and may not represent the exact location.