Xian, China-2-day-itinerary

Xian, China 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Ancient History and City Delights

Morning (9:00 am - 12:00 pm)

  • Start your day at the Terracotta Warriors: One of China’s most famous archaeological sites. Witness over 8,000 life-sized terracotta soldiers that date back to the Qin Dynasty.
    • Transportation: Take bus number 306 or 307 from the city center directly to the Terracotta Warriors site (around 45 minutes).
  • Explore the museum: Adjacent to the warriors lies a large indoor museum showcasing more than 1,000 life-sized terracotta soldiers and artifacts of the Qin Dynasty.
    • Ticket Information: Terracotta Army ticket includes access to both the pits and the museum. Cost around ¥150 per person.

Afternoon (12:00 pm - 6:00 pm)

  • Lunch at a local restaurant: Try some Chinese noodles or dumplings in a small eatery like the ones found on the streets near the Terracotta Warriors site.
    • Recommendations:
      • JiaJia TangBao for delicious soup-filled buns.
      • GengYinXuan for hand-pulled noodles and other local specialties.
  • Visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda: A 7-story Buddhist pagoda known for its stunning architecture, a symbol of Xian, and a must-visit for its historical significance.
    • Transportation: Take bus number 303 or walk from the Terracotta Warriors site (around 30 minutes).
  • Walk around the Daming Temple Area: Explore the tranquil surroundings of this ancient Buddhist temple, which is particularly beautiful during sunset.
    • Admission Fee: Free, but donations are welcome.

Evening

  • Experience the Xian Muslim Quarter: A historical district that was once home to a large Muslim community. Visit the Great Mosque, and walk around the narrow alleys filled with local food stalls and shops selling unique items.
  • Dinner at one of the many restaurants in the Muslim Quarter: Enjoy the diverse flavors of Chinese-Muslim cuisine at places like Xi’an Muslim Restaurant or ShuJian TangBao.

Day 2: Modern Xian and Great Wall

Morning (9:00 am - 12:00 pm)

  • Visit the Qin Shi Huang Mausoleum Museum: Dedicated to China’s first emperor, this museum features artifacts from his reign, including a famous bronze chariot.
    • Ticket Information: Costs around ¥50 per person.
  • Explore the Ancient City Wall of Xian: The oldest and best-preserved city wall in China. Take a walk along its 13 kilometers for an authentic experience.
    • Transportation: Close to the hotel area or take bus number 306 from the city center.

Afternoon

  • Take a day trip to the Huashan Mountain: An iconic mountain known for its steep paths, stunning scenery, and challenging hikes. The Northern Peak is particularly famous for being one of China’s five sacred mountains.
    • Transportation: Regular buses run directly from Xian Railway Station or city center (around 1 hour).
  • Alternatively, visit the nearby Mausoleum of First Emperor Qin Shi Huang: While visiting the museum on Day 2 could suffice for this part, if you have more time and are interested in history, a visit to the actual mausoleum might be enlightening.
    • Transportation: The site is close to the Terracotta Warriors.

Evening

  • Enjoy a traditional Chinese dinner at your hotel or a nearby restaurant: Many hotels offer special set menus for tourists, giving you an authentic taste of local cuisine without venturing too far from your accommodation.
  • Review your day and plan for tomorrow: Relax in the evening with a good book or simply enjoy the peacefulness of Xian.

Things to Know

  • Weather: Best time to visit is during spring (March-May) when the weather is pleasant. Autumn (September-November) is also great, but it can get crowded.
  • Language: While Mandarin Chinese is the official language, many locals in tourism areas speak some English. Still, learning basic phrases like “hello” and “thank you” will go a long way.
  • Currency: The local currency is the Renminbi (RMB), also known as the yuan or CNY. Credit cards are widely accepted, especially at tourist sites and restaurants.

Transportation

  • Walking: Xian is a city where walking can be an excellent option for short distances, especially within the ancient city walls.
  • Public Buses: An efficient way to get around, with buses that run frequently between major attractions. The cost of public transportation is very affordable.
  • Taxis: Widely available and often more convenient than taking public buses, but it’s customary to tell them your destination before you start.

Tips

  • Dress Modestly: Respect local customs by dressing modestly when visiting temples or mosques.
  • Learn the Basic Rules for Visiting Temples: Taking off shoes, not eating inside, and generally being mindful of your presence in these sacred places will make a positive impression on locals and ensure a pleasant visit.
  • Bargain at Markets: At markets like the Muslim Quarter, bargaining is expected. Do it in a friendly manner, but be prepared to walk away if you don’t get what you feel is a fair price.

Accommodation

There’s a wide range of accommodations available in Xian, from budget-friendly options to luxury hotels, each catering to different tastes and budgets. Some popular areas for staying include:

  • City Center: Close to all major attractions, ideal for those who want to experience the city’s nightlife.
  • Near the Terracotta Warriors: Convenient for those specifically interested in visiting this ancient site.
  • The Ancient City Wall Area: Quiet and peaceful surroundings near the oldest part of the city.

Additional Tips

  • Book Accommodation in Advance: Especially during peak travel seasons, it’s advisable to secure your accommodation well ahead to avoid disappointment.
  • Plan Your Route: Use maps or ask locals for directions to navigate Xian efficiently.
  • Enjoy Local Cuisine: Try local dishes and drinks like noodles, dumplings, and hand-pulled noodles.