The 20 best shows in Xi'an

The ticket costs RMB 268 if you buy over the counter. It is cheaper to buy online. However, after 5pm, the tickets will cost full price at RMB 268 even if you buy online. As a solo traveller, no one led me to a seat when I entered the hall. After sitting down, a tour guide told me to move to another table as she had 3 tables of guests. Priority was only given to tour groups and not based on a first come first served basis for solo customers. Seating was given based on a first come first served basis to tour groups as well. I had to ask 2 waitresses where I could sit down before I was shown a seat at the farthest corner of the hall. If we are all paying customers, why didn't anyone show me a seat, and even had to move me to the farthest corner of the seating area? The whole experience made me feel very unwelcome. It is very commercialised. I have a feeling that as I look Chinese and not a Westerner, I am given little priority. I was seated in a corner where there are only 2 Chinese tour guides sitting in the corner. And the waitress keeps putting the big plates of condiments like soya sauce at the corner table. So you know it is not an important table. The good comments on the performance definitely come from non-Chinese or those who do not watch Chinese dramas or have little contact with Chinese performances. Due to the comments, I paid a hefty price for it. The performance was so-so. I have seen better performances in Chinese dramas, and really exciting live performances in other parts of China. Some parts were boring and I almost fell asleep during those times. It is exorbitant by China standards. Only overseas visitors would pay for it. That is why there is no Chinese face there except for the tour guides and service staff. As what the China people say, 骗外国人的钱 bluff money from overseas people. It is a rip off. Even country / city grade performances promoted by the local governments are cheaper and of higher quality and better standard. The famous Director Zhang Yimou's team with Director Wang Chaoge also directed performances which are excellent and cheaper ie. the 《印象》and《又见》 series. This place is totally not worth your spending the money.

The food is decent, some great dumplings, some not so great, but you really come here for the performance. The show was great, though the live orchestra was not used for every song. The price is a tad expensive, there's definitely a "tourist tax" here.

Really fantastic. We just happened upon this place while walking by during the day, and decided to get tickets for dinner and show that evening. (The reservation staff has sufficient English to make this easy for American visitors.) The dumpling dinner had an amazing variety of offerings; everyone was delighted. The show was stunning; no mid-class dinner theater offering at all; this is a high-quality professional live song and dance show, with live orchestra. The lights and staging were super high-quality.

This is 1 of the greatest shows which you shouldn't miss to watch out there by yourself I strongly convince.

adapted classic Chinese in all dress, music, poor taste food for tourist, fit for anyone who don’t interest in history

Nice performance with awesome varieties of food - specially dumplings ! On special requests, they prepared fully veg dumplings and they were awesome. Staff was very attentive and helpful. Must visit this place for food and its cultural show.

The food was not very tasty.. and the camera of my phone got damaged by the laser used during the show.. manager says it’s not possible because the laser is ‘safe’.. i saw it happen while taking a picture.. and there is no such thing as a ‘safe laser’.. very disappointed

Great collections of few dynasties over thousands years ago! A little crowded to really appreciate these amazing collections. Definitely worth the visit but make sure to pre-booked the ticket online prior to avoid disappointment.

The place is strict with the admission timing. You will not be allowed to enter if you miss your slot. If you arrive early, join the snaking queue until the a lot starts. Takes about 20-30min before I can get in. Place is way overcrowded, as it’s jn the city and it’s FREE! Book early to get the ticket. Many of the exhibits in the museum are replicas. Make your own decision if you want to visit.

One of the most historic and beautiful museums I have ever set foot on in my life. The exterior and interior are equally beautiful, both showing the great historical culture of Xi-an and Chinese history. There are two floors and many rooms in the museum to store these delicate artifacts in the museum, each of these artifacts is magnificent, vibrating an ancient aroma that can bring the visitors to Ancient China, seeing how they lived and what they used back then. Through this museum, you can as if retrieve your footsteps and view the development of China and see its history with your own eyes, immensely increasing your own historical knowledge about the place. What a beautiful museum! Also the sensation of just seeing the photos online in comparison to seeing them in person are completely different.

It is a great museum charting the history of Xi'An. Lots to see and it is free to enter if you are lucky enough to get one of the 12000 tickets issued every day. I have only rated 3 stars for the following reasons: The wait in line is around 1 and a half hours, if you get there early, if you arrive later in the day it can be much longer. The temperature in Xi'An is around 38 degrees c in the afternoon and it is not until you get closer to the museum entrance that some shade is provided, so bear that in mind when you visit. The museum was severely overcrowded, and this unfortunately spoilt the experience as viewing the displays was very difficult due to the sheer amount of people in the museum. There was a lot of pushing and shoving due to the lack of space around the exhibits. The museum staff were friendly and helpful.

This is a must-visit place in Xi An. It's free, but make sure to book your ticket in advance. Try to avoid the holiday season or weekends.

Virtually impossible to get in for a foreigner. Wechat reservation only in Chinese and days ahead possible. I am sure it's a great museum, which I will never see I my life.

I cannot give a review of the museum as it’s impossible for foreigners or anyone without WeChat to get in. You need to book in advance but this is only possible through WeChat. I went to the ticket office only to be told it was sold out for 3 days. You must book in advance and you must have WeChat set up which is difficult for foreigners. Even with tickets people were queuing down the street, it appears to be a very busy and crowded museum, even on weekdays.

Must visit Xi'An tourist site, its a historically significant Temple with ancient Pagoda. Temple is very clean, well maintained, beautiful with flowers and landscaped gardens. People are polite and good mannered, some old men playing Chinese chess inside. Enjoyed the atmosphere, found peace and tranquility. I could stay in this temple and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere for hours. When the sun goes down, just outside the temple is the Tang Everbright City! its basically Larger than Singapore's orchard road, a huge shopping district! Many souvenir shops and cafes! and also luxury SPA / Massage for your tired feet. if you want to enjoy this place, just book your hotel here, all the big brand hotels are located here, its prime spot.

The Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, or Dayanta, is truly an unmissable experience that provides a sense of history even deeper than the City Wall. This monumental seven-story structure, housed within the Da Ci’en Temple complex, is not just architecture; it is the physical symbol of the Tang Dynasty's golden age and the legendary journey of the monk Xuanzang. Built in 652 AD, the pagoda was designed to safely store the hundreds of Buddhist scriptures (sutras) and relics Xuanzang brought back from his seventeen-year pilgrimage to India, along the ancient Silk Road. It's my buckle list to be able to visit this pagoda, a testament to profound religious devotion and monumental early Chinese engineering, having survived numerous earthquakes over the centuries. The Pagoda sits within the tranquil and beautifully maintained grounds of the Da Ci’en Temple. Do take time to wander the halls, appreciate the stone steles engraved with historical texts (including two featuring writings by Emperor Taizong and Gaozong), and observe the traditional rituals still practiced here. If you can stay till evening, the fountain show at the North Square is massive. It's a musical fountain display, set against the backdrop of the gloriously illuminated pagoda, is absolutely spectacular. It’s a wonderful fusion of classical Chinese music, light, and water (check for seasonal showtimes; they are often held around 8:30 PM/9:00 PM). My getting to the Pagoda is exceptionally easy compared to other sites. Took Xi'an Metro Line 3 or 4 directly to Dayanta Station (Giant Wild Goose Pagoda Station). I Use Exit B, and follow the signs—you'll reach the North Square in just a few minutes.

Climb worth it for exercise and view. Don't photo budda remember. It's a working temple. Great to see the connection between India and China here. Tranquil courtyard

A Buddhist pagoda in the center of Xi'an with unique and characteristic buildings. A must-see. You can climb to the top of the pagoda and observe the old city from above.

Wonderful place with lots of history. Other than the pagoda itself, which requires a separate ticket to enter, there is an area with lots of restaurants and snacks, as well as temples and artifacts to see. The complete works of Tripitaka Master Xuanzang are on display - a must see! Can easily spend a few hours here.

One of the richest Buddha place. The tower had been built in 652 in lesser than a year. The tower is leaning around 95m towards one side. The entrance to the the tower is not included in the park ticket.

We paid the 10Yuan to gain access to the grounds of the Wild Goose Pagoda and we were very happy with our decision. There’s so much to walk and explore on the grounds around the pagoda, and depending on the time of year, you could see the 50 varieties of peonies blooming (mid April to mid May). We didn’t pay the additional cost to also get inside the actual pagoda because we needed to get back to meet our tour group.

Only if I had a Chinese phone number then I could have entered in with a half price lol.

A SCAM ! If you love plastic and fake sceneries this will be your paradise. 4 people at ticket desk but we had to do everything via alipay ... This ticket that is one of the most expensive in china just give you access to the park, all activities are extra in the park. Was attracted by the 5A which was also the case for Huaqing palace and terracotta army; maybe there should be a new type of grade cause in my opinion a 5C-.

The name can be confusing. It is a beautifully manicured garden or park, with lakes, pavilions, bridges, and a palace holding nightly performance. It is very photogenic and one can easily spend a few hours relaxing there.

Such an Amazing place to visit at night with pretty lights and nice buildings

The Tang Paradise Theme Park is characterized by its portrayal of the prosperous Tang Dynasty, harmoniously blending Tang-style buildings, gardens and unparalleled cultural arts. Its layout is based on the design of the original royal garden of the Tang Dynasty. Highly recommend the outdoor live show🤩❤️

Perhaps it’s a tourist trap but it would be a pretty well done tourist trap. It does a pretty good job of recreating ancient historical sites and the entire place lights up at night with absolutely beautiful lights. It’s a 5A tourist attraction in china which means china regards this as one of the highest graded attractions in the country. Someone of something clearly spent a lot of money to make this a worthy place to visit.

If you think Datang Night City is crowded and want to have fewer people for photo shooting, this is definitely the place you should come. It has activities more or less just like the outside but with fewer crowds. I just had a photo session with my wife here. The Datang buildings here are really beautiful with their reflections in the lake.

A must-visit landmark in Xi’an — the world-famous Terracotta Warriors site. You can easily take a Didi ride from downtown Xi’an for around 100 RMB. It’s highly recommended to book your entrance ticket in advance to avoid confusion at the gate, especially for foreign visitors. Official guides are available right at the entrance and can greatly enhance your visit with detailed historical explanations. Inside, you’ll find three main excavation pits open to visitors, along with a museum showcasing ancient weapons and artifacts discovered at the site. After finishing the tour, you’ll pass through a lively food street — perfect for lunch — before continuing to nearby Lishan Mountain, believed to be the actual tomb area of Emperor Qin Shi Huang. Plan about 1–2 hours for the visit. It’s an unforgettable experience that perfectly combines history, culture, and the legacy of China’s first emperor.

Visiting the Terracotta Army is one of the most impressive experiences in China. Seeing thousands of clay warriors — each with unique facial features and details — is absolutely breathtaking. The site is well organized, with clear signs and a smooth visitor route. It’s best to come early in the morning to avoid the big crowds. Tickets can be bought online, and there’s a free shuttle bus between the entrance and the main hall. You can also see exhibitions and reconstructions showing how the army was discovered. Overall, it’s a fascinating and unforgettable place — definitely worth visiting at least once in your lifetime.

A must-visit historical site in China. The site is large and the actual museum is far from the ticket entrance, so advisable to buy the electric buggy tickets (additional cost per person) if travelling with seniors, kids or just unable to walk too far. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance but you will be hounded by tons of tour guides charging few hundred yuan to be your guide once inside. You can rent an English audio guide for 40yuan (if i remember correctly) after entering instead. After touring the 3 pits, you are forced to exit through a maze of restaurants and shops - another unnecessarily long walk. Once you finally reach the entrance again, you can queue up for a bus to take you 1.5km to the mausoleum site, where it is just a few more uncovered pits. This is another huge site, and you have to pay for another electric car buggy to bring you around because it is quite impossible to walk when you are already so tired! Once we got off the buggy at the first stop, we were told we must follow one direction (flow) from the first stop to the last stop and are not allowed to turn back if we missed anything. This was told to us in Chinese... so Im not sure if foreigners would have been informed of this seemingly important instruction. The actual tomb of the emperor is not yet open. So this site is really just giving some history of the site, some other uncovered pits featuring horses and bronze charriots, and a very large museum showcasing how they made the statues and figurines in the olden days. Overall, the site could have used a lot more signages to guide us in the right direction. Felt a bit annoyed having to pay for the electric buggy on top of the already expensive ticket fees at two sites.

Seeing these magnificent statues in person, after years of only encountering them in history books, was an absolutely unforgettable experience. This is a fantastic museum and an absolute must-see for anyone visiting the area. Truly a historical marvel! ​We were fortunate to have a fantastic tour guide who enhanced the visit immensely. She not only provided us with amazing historical facts but also entertained us with funny, relevant stories, making the experience both educational and highly engaging.

Amazing artwork eveywhere. The best place to buy clay soliders is in the back in a at shop that was kinda hidden from the front shops. They sell life size replicas and all the other smaller sizes. Skip the tourist shops at the front selling plastic. One shop owner even gave them me a pottery factory tour after buying a statue. Once in a lifetime experience . I loved it!

A fantastic day! You will need at least 2.5hours inside the exhibition complex to absorb the wonder and glory of the terracotta warriors! The mausoleum is 50 mins away from the city centre - we took a didi and it was around USD15 one way. There are 3 pits to enjoy along with a host of displays, just like a museum. Food choices are plenty and toilets are aplenty

I can honestly say that visiting the Terracotta Army was an overwhelming and deeply moving experience. The sheer scale of this place is something photos and documentaries simply cannot capture—you have to see it with your own eyes. I was utterly amazed and profoundly glad I made this trip; it truly is worth the once-in-a-lifetime effort. The Pit 1 (The Infantry): This is the main attraction and where the breathtaking scale hits you. Seeing thousands of life-sized soldiers, chariots, and horses lined up in ancient battle formation, guarding the First Emperor for over two millennia of the Qin Dynasty, is just jaw-dropping. I was amazed by the Bronze Chariots. The intricate detail and preservation of these half-scale pieces are often called the "Crown of Bronzes" for a reason. Warning: The site is huge and popular, so try to arrive early to beat the biggest crowds, I will recommend consider hiring an audio guide to truly appreciate the historical context.

13Km in length which is approx 3-5 hours to walk. Cycling will take 1 hour to go from South Gate to South Gate doing a loop. Tickets cost 50 RMB per person to enter the wall. It cost 100 RMB for bike deposit and 45 RMB for the bike rental. There are bike rental spots around the wall which can be seen on the images attached.

Wow! This a city wall of epic proportions,it has 4 gates and is around 14km long. I think it is about 10-15 metres high and must be 10 metres wide. We visited early morning but it was pouring with rain, so we aborted and returned the next day, when the weather improved. There are many watchtowers on the wall and the North,South, East and West gates. The South gate is by far the most popular and crowded, we entered from the West gate and hired bicycles to ride the entire wall. If you are not feeling that ambitious, you can return the bicycles to any station and get your deposit refunded. If you cycle through the South gate, you must hand in your bicycle before you get to the gate and collect a new bicycle (no extra cost) from the other side of the gate to continue cycling. Great fun, but choose your bicycle carefully, get a comfy one because it's a bumpy ride!

Not too bad! my favourite part of xi'an for sure.. but thats not saying too much since im not quite fond of the city. The walls however offer a great perspective in the past, and its surreal how well its been preserved. definitely worth visiting, and a bike ride is offered on top aswell. Does require a ticket to get onto the wall

Highly recommended to visit the ancient wall, walk around or rent a bike. Don't forget to bring your passport in order to buy tickets if you are a foreign visitor

I was a little surprised to find that you have to pay to access the city walls, but it makes sense — like any major tourist attraction, maintenance and preservation come at a cost. There’s quite a steep set of stairs to reach the wall, but once you’re up there, the scale is absolutely incredible. There are a few small shops along the way, but it’s mostly a place to enjoy a leisurely walk — or even explore by bike or another mode of transport. It’s a lovely spot to visit for an hour or so and take in the views.

Nice to walk along the city walls. There was a light exhibit while we were there so it was so pretty with the lights and colors. We had a small inconvenience getting the pram for our kids up as there is no step free access.

Amazing historical spot in Xi'an. Definitely recommend for anyone interested in history. Walking around this wall felt like a time trip to ancient China.

At Night, this place is turned into a stage of an impressive production called Song of Everlasting Sorrow (长恨歌）. Pls buy tickets early, 10days in advance online. There are 2 or 3 shows daily.

Best Hotel I ever visited! Hot spring outdoor bath, lovely theater with the most high tech stage I ever seen, crazy good buildings and epic scenery basically a place for emperors to relax at but to a commoners price. Dinner is very good and at same price as neighbouring restaurants. I will come back here many more times! Worth every penny!

Loads of traditional shows, great exhibition halls, and generally very well maintained place for a couple of hours to wander around 😀

Well kept and well organised, get yourself a guide or follow a tour group around to get the download on all the back stories! Fascinating history ancient and recent plenty to see. For those looking for a challenge make sure to bring your hiking shoes! We went during the off season so no shows and renovation works.

As I embarked on an unforgettable journey with my dear friends from Morocco and Yemen, we found ourselves immersed in the enchanting allure of Huaqing Palace, nestled amidst the majestic landscapes of Xi'an, China. Our adventure was marked by discovery, awe-inspiring sights, and profound cultural experiences that left an indelible mark on our hearts. Upon our arrival, we were greeted by the grandeur of Huaqing Palace, its ancient architecture standing as a testament to centuries of history and tradition. The entrance fee of 120 yuan granted us access to a world of wonder, where every corner revealed a new story waiting to be unveiled. Eager to explore every facet of this historical gem, we opted to embark on a cable car ride, an additional 40 yuan well spent. As we ascended to the mountaintop, the panoramic views took our breath away, offering a sweeping vista of lush greenery and the sprawling grounds below. The cable car journey itself was an adventure, allowing us to soar above the landscape and soak in the beauty of our surroundings. Upon reaching the summit, we were greeted by the serene tranquility of the temple perched atop the mountain. Stepping into its hallowed halls, we were enveloped by a sense of reverence, as if time itself had stood still within these sacred walls. The intricate architecture and ornate decorations spoke volumes about the rich cultural heritage of Huaqing Palace, inviting us to delve deeper into its storied past. Descending from the mountaintop, our exploration continued as we wandered through the myriad temples and museums that dotted the landscape. Each step revealed new treasures, from ancient artifacts to beautifully landscaped gardens, each offering a glimpse into the vibrant tapestry of Chinese history and culture. But beyond its historical significance, Huaqing Palace also captivated us with its natural beauty. The tranquil ponds, lush gardens, and towering trees provided a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, inviting us to pause and reflect amidst the serene surroundings. As the sun began to set on our unforgettable day at Huaqing Palace, we couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience such a breathtaking destination with cherished friends by our side. Our journey had been filled with moments of wonder, laughter, and camaraderie, leaving us with memories that would last a lifetime.

So worth a visit! Lots of back stories and interesting historical events.

Really interesting with the little stories about how the emperor and the concubines used the facilities. Will take about 2 hours to go through it all. You can see remains of the bathhouses used during Tang dynasty. I would recommend that you combine this with a cable car ride to the top of the nearby mountain as well as the park Tang Paradise.

The largest round about inside old Xian city and the bell tower is in the center of it. Iconic landmark that you cannot missed. Bought the tickets online for both bell and drum tower on Ctrip together. The current location is not the historic location. Its past location is much nearer to drum tower. Not much to see but as tourist just visit once is enough. Btw, night time it is more beautiful.

Magnificent, must visit in China.. the number 1 place in your Xi'An trip plan should be this followed by the Drum tower. Deep historical value, and super for photo taking. try to take pictures from across the roads, that's what the locals do. So that you get a majestic Architecture in your picture background.

This is my first visit to the Bell Tower, or Zhonglou (in Mandarin), is not just Xi'an's most iconic landmark; it is the geographical and spiritual heart of the ancient Ming Dynasty city. Standing proudly at the intersection of the four great avenues—connecting to the East, West, South, and North Gates of the City Wall—this majestic structure is the largest and best-preserved of its kind in all of China. From the site, it was built in 1384 and then famously relocated 1,000 meters east in 1582 (an incredible feat of ancient engineering!), the Bell Tower exemplifies the architectural prowess of the Ming Dynasty. It was originally used to signal the start of the day for the entire city, a tradition known as "morning bell and evening drum" (with the nearby Drum Tower). The Architecture and Engineering was the sophisticated brick-and-timber structure. The clever use of traditional Chinese Dougong (interlocking wooden brackets) showcases ingenuity, as the entire 36-meter-tall structure was assembled largely without nails. Note the triple-eaved roof and dark green glazed tiles that give it its regal appearance, just memorized me. The Bell Tower is absolutely breathtaking after sunset when it is completely bathed in golden illumination. The lighting accentuates its architectural details and creates a magical atmosphere, making it one of Xi'an’s best photo opportunities. My accommodation is just minutes walk to the the bell tower. For those whom need to commute in, the easiest way to reach the Bell Tower is by taking Metro Line 2 directly to Zhonglou Station. Use one of the underground exits that lead directly into the vast pedestrian tunnels surrounding the tower base, which is where the entrance is located.

Go at night to see it lit up. Check out the Muslim Quarter near there for street shopping. Not sure if you can enter the tower itself.

Really pretty when lit up at night. Loads of people in ancient outfits posing, so may not be easy to get a clear shot.

Ending our day after the Muslim Quarters area, we arrived at the Bell and Drum Tower Square. Maybe it’s a good idea to see it all in lights at night but we were tired. People were not allowed to go in the tower that day nor climb the outside stairs which is a shame for the pictures. In the olden days the bell and drum signaled to people then when the gates to the walled city opened and closed. In the square there’s a lot of stores selling nicely boxed and attractively wrapped local goodies for your gifting needs. We happen to see a cat quietly but stably perched on the back of a man on a bike — amazing balance. And as a satisfying way to end the day, we got ourselves some fragrant Chagee osmanthus tea and passion fruit tea.

This is such a great attractive. At nighttime, they do a very good job illuminating the tower. Lots of people just watching it as the time passes. Best viewpoint is from the shopping center across the street.

Worth visiting if you have already hit up the other big tourist attractions in the area. They have excavated a village from 6000 years ago. Lots of earthen jars used to bury children. The outside activities were all closed when we went (January).

Close to Subway Line 1 - Banpo Station (Exit A) If you have the time, this is an interesting place to vist. 6000 year old relics & remnants of a civilization is something you don't see every day. Original excavation sites makes this visit interesting. This place doesn't have the grander of the Terracotta Warriors, But it is fascinating in its own realm. Surrounding tall buildings makes you wonder (Whiskey Tango Foxtrot) the city planners were thinking when they allowed all the construction- makes you wonder how much history was destroyed. Not crowded during the visit; 55CNY entrance fee in October 2019.

Absolute gem. Tells you a lot about how the Neanderthals in Xi’an 6000 years ago lived and built their houses. It is also very accessible by the nearby Banpo metro station.

A very historial place on human civilization 6000yrs history;recreated in details.worth a visit

I wouldn't go as far as saying "must see" but it isn't every day you see 6000 year old skeletons. Some of the museum buildings look run down and derelict but the main excavation site building is pretty incredible and the gallery has some interesting exhibits. I'd say go there if you have time!

Awesome peace of art. Great creativity. Its a special treat for eyes. I like all the the designs put on display. Have many varities of restored sculptures from old culture. In first sight can't believe its restored. Very big place. Need at least 2 -3 hours to cover everything. Nice and helpful staff. Well maintained place. Nice infrastructure and management. Great place to learn about chinese culture and history. People should support such a great creativity. Thanks for the services.

Turned out to be quite an interesting and modern museum. The "kids" area is very interesting, and for 20 yuan they can help you make fire (and light a torch) using prehistoric techniques!

A fun place to try out lots of food and drinks after doing the lengthy walk of the Xi’an ancient city walls. It has an old bustling marketplace ambiance of ancient times (my knowledge from movies only naturally) with a festive atmosphere from all the visitors. I bought a couple of nut snack gifts, drank mulberry juice (nope, the silkworms only eat the leaves so it’s so nice they left the superfruit mulberry for people), ate a braised pork leg bun, and tasted for the first time a congealed lamb blood strips and crystal noodle soup. Trying to duplicate the lamb blood soup back home will not be easy. Pig’s blood sure but lamb’s blood? Where Shaun?

Situated just next to the city wall, this market is a fun place to visit in the evening, with performances of traditional music as well as C-pop, the good-luck-bringing smashing of a wine saucer, dozens and dozens of food stalls, and some quirky souvenirs to boot. Busy, but safe, and the prices were moderate.

Another check in@photo shoot place in Xi'An! Many things can be seen here, as well as eat for local food! The environment become more colorful as the decorations are using the theme of Chinese new year! Do come in January if you wish to take photo for "red theme". Beside, Lots of Handcraft and chinese cultural stuffs can be seen here!

Relatively modern (100 years) food market with every possible variety reflecting the fusion of the region and the silk road. Fun entertainment too

Yongxing Fang in Xi'an is a cultural and gastronomic street that showcases the unique charm of Shaanxi's local culture. It features traditional architecture, folk performances, and a wide variety of authentic local delicacies, making it a popular destination for tourists. Visitors can experience the vibrant culture of Shaanxi, including traditional crafts, snacks, and live cultural shows, all while immersing themselves in the rich history and traditions of the region.

Great place to get some food in the evening. There are dozens of different stalls that sell a single dish for ~¥10-15. Vegetarian options as well. Also some small restaurants and various arts & crafts shops. Nice vibe and very colorful place.

Turned out to be a rather pleasant tourist spot. Not much in terms of entertainment except for a live band but it houses a huge collection of Shaanxi cuisine. Sure, you find the typical Rou Jia mou etc but there were some standouts you don’t find in the Bell Tower area.

Review of Xingqinggong Park, Xi’an — For History Lovers I spent an afternoon here with family and friends. My mother in law helped to build the park as an undergrad student so this place held special meaning. In the 1950s, Xi’an began rebuilding on the palace ruins. Xingqinggong Park opened in 1958, with a lake, reconstructed Tang-style pavilions, and landscaped gardens. The layout of today’s park still echoes the ancient blueprint. Xingqing Lake, for instance, lies where the Tang “Dragon Pool” once glistened. Though many structures are modern reconstructions, they are carefully designed in Tang style, offering a sense of the architecture and atmosphere that once stood here. For the history lover, these reconstructions are not mere imitations — they are interpretive bridges, helping us imagine the scale and beauty of the palace at its peak. Highlights for the Historically Curious • Xingqing Lake (兴庆湖) – The heart of the park, and a mirror to history. Imagine Tang courtiers drifting in boats here, or gazing across the same waters in the 8th century. • Chenxiang Pavilion (沉香亭) – A Tang-style reconstruction on an island in the lake. Its elevated view makes it easy to picture the ceremonial grandeur of the original palace. • Hua’e Xianghui Lou (花萼相辉楼) and Nanxun Ge (南薰阁) – Restored halls recalling the Tang architectural aesthetic, with sweeping eaves and symmetry. • Archaeological remains – Scattered within the park, subtle but meaningful. Foundations, layout traces, and interpretive plaques hint at the massive scale of the lost palace. Practical Tips • Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon, when the park is quieter and light softens the lake and pavilions. • How long to stay: Allow 2–3 hours if you want to explore both the reconstructed halls and the quieter paths, imagining the Tang palace in its heyday.

Xingqinggong Park, located in the historic city of Xi'an, offers visitors a serene and picturesque retreat steeped in rich history. Originally the site of an imperial palace during the Tang Dynasty, this park beautifully combines natural beauty with cultural heritage, making it a must-visit destination. As you enter the park, you're immediately transported away from the city's hustle and bustle into a tranquil oasis. The well-maintained paths invite you to wander and explore the diverse landscapes, from vibrant flower beds to expansive green lawns. The centerpiece of the park is a large, serene lake that reflects the sky above and the ancient-style pagodas surrounding it. It's common to see locals engaged in tai chi or families enjoying boat rides, which adds a lively yet peaceful atmosphere to the area. Cultural activities are abundant here. Traditional Chinese music often fills the air, played by elderly locals under shaded pavilions, providing a soothing soundtrack to your visit. Children play nearby, adding bursts of laughter to the mix. For history enthusiasts, numerous plaques and statues scattered throughout the park offer insights into its imperial past, enriching your understanding of Xi'an's significant role during the Tang Dynasty. Visiting Xingqinggong Park is not just about enjoying the natural beauty; it's an experience of connecting with the local culture and history. It’s a place where every corner offers a story, and the peaceful environment is perfect for those looking to relax and rejuvenate. Whether you are interested in the historical aspects, the natural settings, or simply a day out with family, Xingqinggong Park provides a charming and enriching environment for all visitors.

Private museum inside the garden with collection of 三彩 antiques… some reviewers however question whether a few of the displays look way too new and well preserved to be genuine…

A reasonably big garden in Xian, well worth and hour or two to stroll around especially when the flowers are in bloom. I was there when the tulips are full glory. The park is well managed and it is very pleasant to wonder around.

The elliptical pond's acoustics amplify whispers across 60m of water - likely used for secret diplomacy. Carp here are descendants of Tang imperial breeding stock, their scales still showing genetic gold pigmentation. The marble moon bridge has 21 steps matching the solar terms.

Really nice park in the midlle of the city. You will find people singing, dancing and doing aerobics. Small but dated amusement park in the corner with some rides for the kids and adults. Nice lake in the middle

Lovely park.

Clearly overshadowed by its older sibling, the terracotta warriors, this museum is worth both your time and your money! The presentation of the burial pits is way better than the one in the terracotta warriors, as you can walk above and beside the pits. Of course the museum is not that big in comparison but the entrance fee costs half of what you pay for the terracotta. Do not miss it as it has a unique charm and of course it is less crowded!

For anyone who loves ancient history, this is a place not to be missed. Though it’s not as grand, famous, or popular as the Emperor Qin Terracotta Warriors Museum, it’s absolutely worth the journey. When I visited, I was quite literally the only person at the entire underground burial pit.The site is impressively maintained, housed in climate-controlled chambers that preserve its integrity. You really have to come here to understand the experience, it’s quiet, haunting, and deeply evocative. I visited the Terracotta Warriors today as well, but somehow, I preferred the atmosphere at Hanyangling. A bit of possibly speculative info, the terracotta figures here are less detailed than those at Emperor Qin’s site. One theory suggests that, in order to protect the secret location of his future necropolis, the emperor had all the artisans killed leading to a loss of craftsmanship and knowledge over generations.

Two sites here: an emperor's mausoleum museum from the Han Dynasty with lots of high quality artefacts. Also a Han underground excavation of 15 burial sites of high ranked officials from the Han dynasty. About an hour's drive from the old Xi'an city center. Almost empty when we went on a Saturday afternoon in the summer. Big contrast to the Terracotta Army site and the Shaanxi museum site. Worth seeing as this is a different dynasty. They do have English guides on site when we asked (100rmb per guide, for each site) but we weren't sure if the quality would be good. No English audioguide. However, the underground burial chambers had plenty of English signage. The Emperor museum had no English signage, but very good Chinese signage and using Google Translate was more than sufficient. There's about 15 minutes walk each between ticket office, site 1 and site 2, with no shade, so bear that in mind. You can also call didi cars for the journeys in between, but there is generally a lack of cars in the area. Well worth visiting if you have a total of 4-5hours to spare (time including transportation). The experience was much more peaceful, and the artefacts high quality, as well as the learning experience. Tickets were cheap, only 70rmb each. Bring passport. No WiFi on site.

A Masterclass in Ancient Craftsmanship and Modern Preservation Visiting the Hanyangling Museum was an absolutely captivating experience and, in my opinion, a must-see for anyone interested in ancient Chinese history, especially after seeing the Terracotta Army. This "underground museum" truly immerses you in the burial pits of Emperor Jingdi and Empress Wang of the Western Han Dynasty. What truly stands out here is the astounding level of detail in the miniature terracotta figures. Unlike the larger, more militaristic figures of Qin Shi Huang's army, the Hanyangling figures (around 1/3 life-size) offer an incredibly intimate glimpse into daily life in the Han court. From graceful palace maids and diligent civil servants to countless animals like pigs, dogs, and horses – each figure is meticulously sculpted with distinct expressions and postures. You can even see the subtle details of their clothing and accessories, which were originally painted in vibrant colors! As you walk on the transparent glass walkways directly above the excavation sites, you can see these treasures exactly as they were unearthed. It's an incredible feeling to peer down and observe the archaeologists' work in progress, and to truly appreciate the sheer scale and artistry involved. This raises an incredible question: how could they achieve such perfection and intricate detail over 2000 years ago? It's baffling to think about the level of organization, craftsmanship, and artistic skill required to produce such a vast and detailed underground world. The precision in their sculpting techniques, the knowledge of materials, and the planning involved in creating such a grand mausoleum complex are truly mind-boggling. It speaks volumes about the advanced civilization of the Western Han Dynasty. The museum itself is a marvel of modern conservation, utilizing advanced technology to protect the relics while allowing for close-up viewing. The controlled environment and the innovative use of glass create a respectful and incredibly immersive experience. Hanyangling Museum is not just a collection of artifacts; it's a profound journey into the past, leaving you in awe of ancient ingenuity and the enduring legacy of the Han Dynasty. Highly, highly recommended.

A Han dynasty burial chambers with lots of relics and sacrificial burial clay figures. It has glass floor and you can see the dig site as it is when unearthed.

Pretty decent museum and paid guide. Off peak season is half off so guide was only 50 rmb. He takes you through the museum and the pits and explains why these Han dynasty pits are so different from the earlier Qin dynasty pits (terracotta warriors). Why did the figures get much smaller in the later dynasty? Visit to find out! The paid movie in the museum is only worth it if you can understand mandarin at an advanced level though.

Fascinating look into depths of the partially excavated Han Emperor Jing’s mausoleum. The mini terracotta figurines (humans and many animals, including pregnant pigs) in-situ invites imagination into how the ancients’ daily court life must have been like. Spent minimum 2 hours. Not crowded in Nov. Bring powerful night mode camera. Very close to bullet train station from Han Yan Ling (20-30 mins drive to the Xian North Railway Station). Recommended - Xian’s ancient capital of China reputation has more than just Qin terracotta - rich archaeological sites for Tang and Han dynasties provides a rich rewarding peek into ancient China.

Performance was good but not super spectacular. Dances were well choreographed and sychronized but still not at amazing level. Performance is about an hour or so. Props and costumes are colorful. Dumpling dinner was good. Given samples- one of each on the menu. Theater full of tourists and mostly chinese. One drink to choose dispense from bottlees. Just try once, but if you have seen other similar performances, this may be underwhelming.

Da Tang is a new shopping and food zone. Must visit in Xian. Very interesting and lively

This was an interesting show for about 30 of the 90 minutes. There is little to no English for foreigners and the prices they charge for drinks is quite high. The end was very interesting/exciting and so were a couple of parts in the middle. However much of it was unintelligible and boring. It would be a great 30-45 minute show, but depending on the price of your ticket (it can vary a lot) you can probably find better things to do with your evening if you are only in the area for a short time.

Beautiful city

It is a great attraction for visitors.

Great, very clean

Nice place

Visited daytime. A Buddhist temple that is worth a visit if you like some tranquility. Reading up for some context prior is advisable.

We went for the evening fountain show and no need tickets to visit this area.

Dancing Fountain show at 09:00 pm. Besides it has a long walkway with different brand and eateries!

(Translated by Google) This is a must-visit attraction in Xi'an. The super large fountain and water dance square, coupled with the antique Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and the bustling city that never sleeps behind it, are worth spending half a day here. (Original) 這裡是西安必訪的景點，超級廣大的噴泉水舞廣場，加上古色古香的大雁塔，後面還有繁華的不夜城，很值得花半天的時間在這邊。

(Translated by Google) It's spectacular, I highly recommend going to see this show, it starts at 9 and ends at 10 at night, so go early 😇 Spectacular 😍 (Original) Es espectacular, recomiendo enormemente ir a ver este espectáculo, comienza a las 9 y finaliza a las 10 de la noche, así que vete con tiempo 😇 Espectacular 😍

(Translated by Google) George cukupl sen Sem or fil tow hei or' S fbin or' or mas membuat filmny da dre ser SE Dar yang benar Yan terjadi ya di' s: usA Deng bagi - Ba diselipkl da Dar Dave felin & tim kerjany' S tida bis apa - apa %& etc like this too again & selesainya' S: tanggal 19 - 12 - 2025 & di' S: usA., di: usA., jancok, bang ass jug l l (Original) George cukupl sen Sem or fil tow hei or' S fbin or' or mas membuat filmny da dre ser SE Dar yang sebenarnya Yan terjadinya ya di' s: usA Deng bagi - Ba diselipkl da Dar Dave felin & tim kerjany' S tida bis apa - apa %& etc like this too again & selesainya' S: tanggal 19 - 12 - 2025 & di' S: usA., di: usA., jancok, bang ass jug l l

(Translated by Google) Very big, but nothing special or remarkable, wasted money (Original) Muy grande, pero nada especial ni destacable, dinero tirado

Amazing fountain show accompanied by music. In early June, it started at 21:00 and it lasts for about 15 minutes. Huge crowds flock to watch the show. You can walk around the area as well, there is a park and a couple of shops to the south. Good way to spend an evening in Xi’an.

Awesome fountain with shows at 7pm and 9pm. The show lasts 10 mins.

Felt the fountain show is not bad but have seen better ones. It is nice because of the light beam and colour effect.

Beautiful show every night

Really crazy the number of people surrounding the fountain show.

Good for a walk when not too many people.

Saw the fountain show during day time. Nice display of rainbow using water reflections!