The bullet train experience between Beijing and Xi’an is unparalleled in its efficiency, as it seamlessly blends modern transportation with an excursion to China’s deep past. This blog post aims to give you complete insight into the rail’s high-speed system and other relevant factors so that you can consider the journey epic. As a bonus, we will also supply the reader with tips and tricks on effectively traversing Xi’an, ranging from mouth-watering food to the antique Terracotta Warriors, which the city boasts about. The mix of cultures and invaluable experiences in this historical city will not fail to interest even the most seasoned traveler. If you are planning your trip for the first time, worry not; this guide will ensure you savor each moment while at Xi’an. Finally, to sum up, be prepared to travel to a city that is truly rich in history while you enjoy the reward modern traveling brings to you.
How to Get from Beijing to Xi’an to See the Terracotta Warriors?
Traveling to Xi’an to glimpse the Terracotta Warriors from Beijing is a piece of cake and offers many options. The most convenient and time-saving option is booking a high-speed train that takes approximately 4.5 to 6 hours. It’s also worth noting that a steady influx of trains is available at the Beijing West Railway Station and Xi’an North Railway Station, making this method super comfortable due to its efficiency. On the contrary, if the latter option does not appeal to you, flights are available at the Beijing Capital International Airport and the Daxing International Airport, which will get you to the Xi’an Xianyang International Airport within two hours of flight. Flights are a tad bit faster than trains, but if you’re looking for an economical option, don’t go any further than central transportation because getting around will be a hassle. Overall, there is no better way to start your trip to this iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Taking the High-Speed Bullet Train: Beijing to Xi’an
The speed train ride to Xi’an from Beijing was speedy and inexpensive. The ticketing system was user-friendly as I made my reservations online beforehand. I went for the second-class seating as it was pretty affordable. The train departed Beijing from the Beijing West railway station and reached Xi’an in approximately 5 hours. The ride was relaxing, fully air-conditioned, and had ample space to enjoy the stunning views outside the window. I liked that I did not have to wait in long lines at the airport for security checks, and when I reached Xi’an, transport facilities were already at our disposal. I would consider this an extremely convenient means of traveling between the two cities, especially for tourists wishing to see the Terracotta warriors in less time.
Flying from Beijing to Xi’an Xianyang International Airport
Another way to reach Xi’an is by booking a flight. Traveling from Beijing to Xi’an Xianyang International Airport (XIY) via flight is quick and smooth. The one-way flight usually takes around two hours. Chinese airlines such as China Southern, Air China, and China Eastern serve direct flights to and from Beijing from Xi’an and vice versa. Plenty are available round the clock, so time will not be an issue.
The total distance can be estimated at 569 miles or 915 kilometers. Economy class tickets can be bought between 400 and 1,000 CNY ($55–USD 140) depending on the advance period, while higher service standards exist in business class for a higher price. Xi’an Xianyang International Airport is 41 km (25 miles) northwest of the improved public transit system of the city, which includes shuttle buses and taxis. Passengers are recommended to check in at the airport not less than 1.5 to 2 hours before the scheduled flight for the boarding process to be smooth. If speed and comfort are your priorities, flying is your best option.
Overnight Train Options for Budget Travelers
One way to save on accommodation while traveling is through overnight trains, allowing you to sit back and travel faster. For example, the Z-series and T-series trains in China have options such as a hard sleeper and a soft sleeper that both have general lodging. Let’s say you don’t want to spend a lot on a soft sleeper ticket, in that case, you can opt for a hard sleeper one, which can cost around 20 to 30 dollars depending on the route. Soft sleepers, on the other hand, cost a little bit more but offer more privacy and comfort, and these usually start at 40 to 60 dollars. Most of the available trains have toilets, dispensers, sockets, and other amenities available to help make the trip slightly more leisurely. Ticket sales were previously available online, so booking tickets during peak seasons is strongly advised for convenience to avoid long waits.
What’s the Best Itinerary for a Terracotta Warriors Tour from Beijing?
A detailed tour of the Terracotta Army usually takes two days to complete. First, head to the high-speed train terminal in Beijing and buy a ticket to Xi’an. The train ride should take anywhere from four to six hours. Next, you can browse local culture and food for starters at Xi’an City Wall or the Muslim Quarter. For the next day, an exploration of the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum should be scheduled for the first half of the day. Ideally, it would be best to spend three to four hours there. After that, you can go back to Xi’an, where you can visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and then go back to Beijing via train or a flight. This way, an enthralling experience of the local culture should be easily achievable.
One-Day Whirlwind Tour: Is It Possible?
With enough planning and scheduling, this can be done in a single day, provided that specific travel requirements are kept in mind. To save time, the City Wall, Terracotta Warriors, and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda can be prioritized so the day is well spent. A good start to the day is essential, thus many travelers are encouraged to catch the earliest flight available, in this case to Xi’an. As soon as you arrive, consider visiting the Terracotta Warriors, ensuring that sufficient hours are reserved for this visit. Once done with that, going back to the city for other attractions, including the Muslim Quarter and Big Wild Goose Pagoda, is recommended. A good traveling schedule can be maintained with private modes of transport and pre-booked tickets. It may be a tad too fast-paced experience, but the beautiful culture and rich history of Xi’ are breathtaking in their way.
Two-Day Trip: Balancing Terracotta Warriors and Xi’an City Highlights
Of course! And since there is no particular question given, I will just give brief information based on the main aspects and the tone of the document as I have been instructed to answer a first-person question, but here’s their restructuring:
Optimizing Day 1 and Day 2 Activities
I believe the Terracotta Warriors are an archaeological wonder outside Xi’an that takes some hours to grasp thoroughly from the first day. I recommend initiating your private mode of transportation and booking a guided tour to get an in-depth insight into this remarkable site.
Considering that, the second day allows us to better engage in the city’s diverse culture, starting with the Big Wild Goose Pagoda or perhaps the more popular City Wall, which is recommended to cycle around for a unique experience. Try to enjoy local cuisines, buying them in the hustling parts of the Muslim Quarter and Markets for the culture that Xi’an has to offer. Dividing the trip into a combination of cultural and historical sites over those two days would guarantee a safe mingling experience with Xi’ an’s culture.
Three-Day Adventure: In-depth Exploration of Xi’an and Surroundings
For a three-day adventure in Xi’an, I suggest beginning your journey with China’s rich imperial history by visiting the terracotta army on your first day. While planning your itinerary, set aside a minimum of 2-3 hours, as this is a vast site with life-sized statues covering a considerable area. Consider visiting early to avoid huge crowds, as tickets are available near the site for standard prices at around 120-150 RMB.
On the second day, visit the ancient city wall, where you should rent a bike to make the traversal across the 13.7 km easier while also providing you with a fantastic panoramic view of the city. You must also consider visiting the Shaanxi History Museum to gain a greater comprehension of the area’s cultural development. Do keep in mind to reserve tickets ahead of time, as they are in high demand. Reservations are often free, though special exhibits may have an entrance fee of roughly 30-50 RMB.
On the third day, take a short trip from Xi’an to Huashan Mountain, known for its stunning views and exhilarating trails along the sheer cliffs. Regarding fees, the North Peak Cable Car is the easiest way to reach the peak, costing about 140-280 RMB. However, if you hike, bring good shoes and water. All these historical sites and natural wonders combine well so that the three days are not just random experiences.
How do you book tickets for the Beijing to Xi’an Bullet Train?
Obtaining tickets for the Beijing to Xi’an bullet train is hardly complicated. Like Trip.com, you can buy them on official websites like the China Railway. You can also purchase them at railway stations or ticket counters within China. Buying in advance during peak travel times is better to have your preferred time and place. To make the purchase, you would need to display a passport, and e-tickets may be simply picked up upon reaching the station or scanned at the gate with an ID.
Online Booking Platforms and Apps
When booking online using platforms and apps, I suggest you begin with the official China Railway website for dependable services and up-to-date schedules. For those who do not wish to go with the official website, Trip.com is a reliable third-party service with an easy interface and comprehensive ticket options for foreign users. Another popular application is Ctrip, which has a good mobile app and other travel services like hotel booking. You can use these platforms to compare the costs of flights and make your payments securely so you can plan your journey more effectively.
Buying Tickets at Beijing West Railway Station
Purchasing tickets at the Beijing West Railway Station can be simple, but as I said before, it can be time-consuming to prepare for, especially during travel seasons. At the station, you can purchase high-speed and regular train tickets from booths and self-serving machines. Speaking of that, there are also self-serving machines for tourists who speak Chinese as long as they have a passport or valid ID. English speakers can also buy the tickets at selected stations.
While purchasing tickets at the on-site location, ensure you have a valid ID ready! Tickets cannot be sold without showing one, and since it is an international place, it wouldn’t be a problem for anyone wanting to purchase a train ticket. Transport during busy events such as public holidays and Chinese New Year could take longer than expected. Some machines accept Chinese bank cards, so be ready with that, too.
If you need to book a last-minute train, the information desk on the first floor has a travel kiosk that can assist you. Remember to check the platform and departure time.
Using a Travel Agency for Hassle-Free Booking
Booking train tickets can be complicated, however, through a travel agency it becomes effortless and convenient. From my experience, agencies take care of everything, including purchasing and paying, which reduces any language barrier hurdles. Most of the time, they also have websites or applications that can help narrow down searches through the travel date, destination, and type of seat. For instance, certain websites give the option of choosing a ticket, whether a standard coach, a first-class, or even a sleeper, which allows you to stay the most comfortable while staying within your budget. Some other factors to note are the service charge (usually between 5 and 10%) or even currency exchange fees if international payments are being made, as well as real-time ticket availability. It is imperative that the agency offers a trustworthy environment and has a transparent cancelation or refund policy.
What to Expect at the Terracotta Warriors Museum?
The Terracotta Warriors Museum is quite the sight: as soon as you enter, a delightful collection of life-sized clay soldiers come into view, made as guardians for Emperor Qin Shi Huang in his afterlife. The museum is structured into several pits, each exhibiting a mixture of chariot horses and warriors in various stages of excavation and restoration. Interactive exhibits, as well as historical images explaining the construction of the army, are also present. Remember that this is a popular cultural site for tourists worldwide, so be prepared for heavy traffic; we suggest booking your tickets beforehand to ease the process for yourself.
Navigating the Terracotta Army Pits
The Terracotta Army site consists of three main pits, each offering a unique glimpse into this ancient wonder’s immense scale and detail.
- Pit 1: At roughly 14,260 square meters, this rectangular space is the largest and most important of the three pits. It contains around 6,000 life-sized soldiers and horses in battle positions. Most figures have yet to be fully excavated in this pit, meaning visitors can see the digging process in this site section.
- Pit 2: Compared to Pit 1, this pit is smaller, though it contains a greater variety of figures: chariot groups, archers, and cavalry. The reconstruction of the army’s structural layout is also different as it includes various facets of the military.
- Pit 3: This is the last of the three Kiellas, and it may be the smallest Kiella, but this one is thought to be the army’s command base. The statues found here are predominantly unarmed, as they likely served a ceremonial function within the army’s establishment.
Tips for Navigation
- Start with the Museum Exhibition Hall: Visit the Museum Exhibition Hall first. These exhibits display artifacts such as ancient coins, bronze weapons, and other historical items, making the leading site significant.
- Plan: Set aside 2–3 hours for a casual stroll around the site or hire a professional guide for more significant insights.
- Best Times to Visit: Try to visit in the morning or late afternoon. It is less crowded from Monday to Friday, but the weekend is a different story.
for Visitors
- Temperature Control: The excavation locations are restricted on three sides to preserve a temperature between 18 and 22 degrees Celsius.
- Mobility Accessibility: Lifts and ramps are available for those who need them.
- Photography: Flash photography is prohibited to protect the sculptures.
Due to the complicated arrangement of the Terracotta Army and its remarkable origin, it is hard to make any sense of it unless the history of the ancient Chinese military works is studied.
Must-See Exhibits and Photo Opportunities
- The Main Pit (Pit 1)
Pit 1 is the most stunning excavation site, consisting of over 6000 clay figures depicting life-sized soldiers sitting in their war formations. These figures consist of infantry, archers, and cavalry, giving great insight into the military structure at the time of Emperor Qin Shi Huang. The vault’s dimension also adds to this site’s feature, standing at 230 meters (755 feet) by 62 meters (203 feet) each. It is quite a good place for tourists to visit. The size of the terracotta army also makes it great and ideal for obtaining wide-angle pictures of and panoramic photos.
- Pit 2
Pit 2 is famous for its various figures and, when pilled up with kneeling archers, cavalry, war chariots, and other commanding officers. This displays multiple diversified poses along with ornate different kinds of arms, which allow zoomed-in pictures as well. Consider looking out for the preserved standing archer, whose great look and display will enable us to see the level of craftsmanship and realism Pratt by all the ancient artisans.
- The Bronze Chariots and Horses Exhibit
The chariot’s construction skills were advanced for the time, as can be seen in the bronze chariot pictured above. Two bronze chariots can also be found near Empress Xiánge’s tomb. Each chariot is designed superbly, with precision in crafting the reins, ornaments, and weaponry. Displayed in glass cases, they illustrate the technological innovation of the Qin Dynasty and make fascinating photography subjects.
- Pit 3
Pit 3 is believed to be the center of command of the army; it houses senior-ranking officers and war chariots. This smaller pit provides an insightful and compact overview of the workings of the Terracotta Army Coordinated. However, it is organized in a more confined manner, showcasing the various figures and their postures and facial movements.
Photography Tips
- Photography captivates, and a professional photographer will always use the right tools and methods to achieve beautiful, stunning photos. Some are outlined below.
- When photographing in dark rooms or settings, Pit 1 uses a wide-angle lens to view a vast area of the set-up, and when shooting indoors, it lifts the ISO.
- Tripods can assist in ensuring image stability since a flash is not allowed.
- The elaborate bronze chariots look for ordinary views, such as the soldier’s facial expressions and prints.
To follow the preservationist rules, visitors are asked to take as much time as needed to appreciate and photograph the exhibits.
Guided Tours vs. Self-Guided Exploration
What is better, guided tours vs. self-tours? In choosing between being guided or exploring the vast location, I assume you should consider your tastes and preferences. For example, I am a fan of guided tours. I think if you want to learn more about the perspectives and details of the displays, then it is ideal for you, too. Otherwise, you would miss out on some of the stories and historical information provided by the guides, which is more fascinating. Exploring the area on your own gives you greater freedom and lets you decide how long you want to spend there and which exhibits you want to focus on most.
When selecting a guided excursion, verify the group size, which should ideally not exceed 10-15 people for better communication, and if audio headsets are available. Self-guided tech enthusiasts should seek museums or sights offering mobile apps or AR features to aid their experience. Remember to wear comfy shoes and set aside approximately 2-3 hours to get the whole experience.
Are There Any Package Tours from Beijing to the Terracotta Warriors?
You can travel to Xi’an from Beijing to visit Qin Shi Huang’s Terracotta Warriors, which will require you to Book one of the available package tours. In most of the ticket options available, there is the service of a roundtrip flight or a one-way flight. The offer includes a guided tour of the Terracotta Warriors Museum, while you can also make specific requests for other preferred attractions in Xi’an. With most packages booked on these tours, travelers have the added benefit of being picked up and dropped off at the hotel. Use the opportunity to compare various itineraries and read numerous reviews to pinpoint a specific tour that fits your needs and available time.
All-Inclusive Day Tours with Round-Trip Transfers
Preparing for my next all-inclusive international trip, I committed to not taking too many international vacations within the same year. Traveling overseas is expensive, so taking excess visits will pressure my wallet. But, if you wish to see the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an and need assistance with the best tour options, here is what I can recommend. High-speed trains or flights provide good comfort and travel efficiency, so include them in your transport booking. The Terracotta statues were constructed with remarkable heritage; hence, expect most guides to cover and enlighten you with their intense history. Depending on which tour you decide, you can also be taken back to the hotel, so you will benefit by not worrying about the logistics. If booking a full-day trip, always add Xi’an history with visits to their ancient City Walls or Muslim Quarter to learn more about their culture. As advice, always read reviews and note down diverse itineraries before confirming your travel plans.
Multi-Day Tours Combining Beijing and Xi’an Highlights
Multi-day tours connecting Beijing or Xi’an are perfect for those who wish to indulge in China’s history and cultural elements. Such tours usually include the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace in Beijing, the Terracotta Warriors, and Xi’an’s ancient City Wall as part of the package. Moreover, many packages allow visits to the Muslim Quarter, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, etc.
Tours offered mostly go from 4 to 7 days, covering all the essential sightseeing spots and ensuring leisure time. Traveling between these cities is simple; one could either get a high-speed train which goes for 4-6 hours OR domestic flights that only take 1.5-2 hours, either way the distance is over 1,200 kilometers. There is a range of prices for tours, with the starting packages being 500$ while those with better accommodation can be priced at over 1200$.
Here are some key features to consider when booking:
- Transportation: Ensure that the Bullet trains or round-trip tickets are included in the package so you don’t waste unnecessary time.
- Accommodation: Depending on your preferences, check if the package includes a 4-star or 5-star hotel in the city center.
- Meals: Confirm beforehand whether the package offers a daily breakfast and other meals while confirming your dietary requirements.
- Guides and Group Size: A guide may be hired for group expeditions; alternatively, a private guide could be hired at an added cost to get a personalized experience.
- Attraction Entry Fees: Check if the website indicates whether the site entry tickets are part of the package to avoid incurring additional expenses.
- Customization: Most tours have flexible schedules, meaning specific sites visited during these tours could be legal amendments to the tours.
In general, these multi-day excursions are best suited to those wishing to visit two of China’s most imperial regions, supplemented by the best travel solutions available. Always read the terms and conditions and conduct due diligence on the service provider before booking.
Customizable Private Tours for Flexible Itineraries
Customizable private tours offer maximum flexibility and dedication to clients who prefer to do things their way. Such tours allow one to design a tour that meets their expectation. A few characteristics of customizable private tours are as follows:
- Flexibility: Tour-goers can choose which attractions to visit, which areas to skip, and even how long they would like to spend at each location. For instance, a private tour to Beijing and Xi’an includes visits to the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, the Terracotta Army, and the City Wall, but the schedule is flexible.
- Expert Guides: Local guides are often provided on such tours, offering commentary and relevant details of the places, especially if they are of historical or cultural significance. They also modify their subjects to fit your desired focus.
- Private Transportation: You can expect to be driven to places, especially if the location has a good mileage. These usually include comfy cars, especially sedans for couples or larger family vans. For bigger groups, the vehicle will consist of minibusses. This enables greater control over time and when particular cars are needed.
- Accommodation Options: Depending on your budget, most providers offer options ranging from five-star hotels to more affordable ones.
- Pricing Structures:
- Most cover the transportation fee, guide fee, and the fees of pre-paid tickets to any attractions.
- Ordering extras (like food or a visit to a site with higher value) may cost even more on top of that. Private-led tour pricing varies in the range of $150 to $500+ payment per day, depending on the group size, area of destination taken, and the tour services included.
- Duration:
- One day or more than one day is offered.
- Most multi-day tours of tortillas last five days or more, with stops arranged between the different cities.
Private tours are customizable and suit those who want to be exclusive and in control of their journey. During these tours, many experts provide insights on the best things and places to do so interested parties can combine their interests to ensure a perfect travel experience without stress and worry.
What Other Attractions Should I Visit in Xi’an Besides the Terracotta Warriors?
Apart from the fascinating Terracotta Warriors, Xi’an offers many tourist spots, such as the Ancient City Wall, one of China’s best-preserved city walls, and breathtaking views while cycling or walking. The Muslim Quarter is another exciting place to explore, featuring colorful street food and markets that define the city’s essence. Big Wild Goose Pagoda is also worth visiting as it is an eminent Buddhist site set among beautiful gardens, together with the Shaanxi History Museum filled with impressive displays that tell the captivating stories of the area around. Mount Hua, one of China’s five holiest freestanding mountains, is ideal for those who enjoy nature as it features breathtaking views and interesting walking paths.
Exploring the Ancient Xi’an City Wall
If you desire to experience the city’s history while absorbing the sights and sounds of Xi’an, then cycling or walking on the ancient Xi’an City wall will be an excellent option. The wall is approximately 13.7 kilometers long and has been preserved since ancient times, seamlessly integrating the history of Xi’an with unparalleled architectural design. Numerous watch towers, ramparts, and gates give insight into the various means of ancient defense. Moreover, the Xi’an Wall also contains panoramic views of the city incorporating recent expansions and traditional architecture, giving you an unforgettable experience. By walking around the city at your convenience, breathtaking and remarkable places become even more important to human history due to their cultural significance.
Discovering the Muslim Quarter and Great Mosque
Situated in the middle of Xi’an, The Muslim Quarter is a hotspot for those wanting to experience a unique culture intertwined with food. As the area is well known for its numerous street food stalls, it offers an experience of various flavors, sounds, and aromas that will tantalize your senses. This quarter contains Xi’an’s Hui Muslin population’s customs and proves Xi’an’s position as a big Silk Road city. The Lamb skewers, biang biang noodles, and roujiamo (modern ham shank) are recommended to all, as they each utilize a variety of spices and herbs that suit the particular style of the region’s culture.
In the heart of the Muslim Quarter is the Great Mosque, an elegant construction that has influences from the traditional Chinese and the Islamic Islamic architecture. It was built in 742 during the Tang dynasty and is one of China’s oldest and most famous mosques. While Middle Eastern mosques are typically built with a particular architecture, this one was constructed in the layout of a traditional Chinese temple, decorated with intricately carved wooden doors, stone steles with inscriptions of Arabic and Chinese languages, and a courtyard. Among the mosque’s significant parts, visitors can see the Grand Prayer Hall, the Phoenix Pavilion, and the only 9-meter high wooden minaret that combines diverse cultures. It is necessary to respect Abdul’s customs of the place, and it is imperative to inquire about the appropriate hours of visitation for non-Muslim tourists.
Visiting the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and Other Historical Sites
In my view, the most challenging part when preparing for a trip to China is deciding what attractions to visit, as there are many interesting places. One such popular attraction is the Great Wild Goose Pagoda located in Xi’an. It was built in 652 during the Tang Era and was used to preserve Buddhist sutras and relics from India. The structure has seven floors and is approximately 64 meters tall. Although I intended only to visit the pagoda, I purchased the combined ticket, which gives you access to both the pagoda and the temple complex, for 50-80 RMB, depending on the season. During my time there, I highly recommend visiting the temple early in the morning to avoid large groups of tourists and wear comfortable shoes. Exposing yourself to these places allows you to understand this beautiful city’s rich history better.
What Are Some Essential Travel Tips for the Beijing to Xi’an Trip?
When planning a trip from Beijing to Xi’an, be prepared to be thrilled by the experience. A high-speed train is available, which takes approximately 4.5 to 6 hours, making it a worthwhile investment. There are multiple ways of purchasing train tickets, but buying them well in advance is always recommended since they are bound to sell out during busy seasons. Flights can also be available, but remember that after accounting for airport travel time and possible mishaps, they might take longer than the 2 hours the actual flight will take. Remember to keep a portable charger, entertainment, and snacks to keep yourself occupied during the trip. After you land in Xi’an, having or making arrangements for your stay near popular tourist destinations like the Big Wild Goose Pagoda or the city’s center can make navigating around much more manageable. Lastly, mark all the places you wish to visit on a map so you don’t get lost and have to waste time figuring out where to go.
Best Times to Visit and Avoid Crowds
Xi’an enjoys the most comfortable weather in spring from March to May and autumn from September to November, which makes them the best months to visit. Early October and the Lunar New Year in China tend to see a lot of tourists due to Golden Week. Weekdays are the best time to visit and avoid such crowds. Terracotta Army and the Ancient City Wall are usually less crowded during early afternoons. Buying your tickets and booking your hotel in advance may allow you to avoid the usual tourist hustle and bustle. In addition to the popular spots, you may want to try visiting quieter ones, which tend to have fewer people.
Packing Essentials for Your Terracotta Warriors Adventure
A convenient and enjoyable visit to the Terracotta Warriors can be achieved by smart packing. The following items could be included:
- Comfortable Clothing and Footwear
If the excursion takes place in the summer or spring, it would be advisable to wear brief and airy clothing. Alternatively, suitable layers would be advisable for autumn. You need appropriate shoes for the trip to visit the museum and various other places.
- Weather Protection
If you plan on visiting during the rainy season or in February, you must carry a small umbrella or a rain poncho. On the other hand, to limit your exposure to UV rays, bring sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses if it’s a bright sunny day.
- Travel Documents
It’s a good idea to keep essential documents accessible, such as travel itineraries, booking confirmations, and photo IDs; this way, you always know where they are. To make your entry easier, bring a paper scan or one on your phone if you bought tickets for an online museum tour.
- Hydration and Snacks
During your visit to the museum and its surrounding areas, you will most likely feel thirsty (the area tends to get hot and dry); therefore, keeping a bottle of water handy should be necessary. Snacks such as granola bars or dried fruits will also help if you spend a long time there.
- Camera or Smartphone
Avoid using flash while taking photos, as it is commonly prohibited while photographing the Terracotta Warriors. It’s best to keep a fairly charged device on you at all times or consider carrying a portable charger exceeding 10,000mAh in capacity.
- Backpack or Crossbody Bag
Please avoid heavy bags and carry a medium-sized, light bag that can easily fit your essentials. It is recommended that you wear a tough, durable bag, but be aware of museum rules, as they might restrict the size and type of bag allowed.
- Guidebook or App
You can consider carrying a hard copy of the Guidebook about Xi’ An and Terracotta Warriors or even a portable device with an app containing historical information about Xi’ An’s terracotta warriors. Use an application with cache or offline data to easily access the information without worrying about connectivity.
Once you are done packing these items, you will be ready to travel and explore Xi’an in the best way possible.
Local Transportation Options in Xi’an
The available transport systems in Xi’an ensure that the city is easily accessible. First and foremost, the city’s metro rapid transit system is affordable and efficient, with multiple lines, including Line 2 to the ancient city wall and the Bell Tower. Fares do not exceed ¥6 and can be as low as ¥2 depending on the distance. If you need to travel by bus, you will find it quite economical as prices start at ¥1; however, if you don’t know any Chinese, it might be challenging to decipher the routes. If taxi services are available, there are ride-hailing apps, Didi being one, which have a fare estimate of ¥9 for the first 3 kilometers, making it a more convenient transportation option. Renting a bike or electric scooter using apps such as Mobike or Meituan is perfect for sightseeing and within walking distance. Just carry some small denomination along with your transit card, e.g., Xi’an Metro Card, or check the operational hours to avoid inconvenience.
References
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What’s the best way to get from Beijing to Terracotta Warriors?
A: The best way to get from Beijing to the Terracotta Warriors is by taking a high-speed train from Beijing to Xi’an. This bullet train journey takes about 4-5 hours and is comfortable and efficient. Once in Xi’an, you can take a bus or taxi to the Terracotta Warriors site, about an hour from the city center.
Q: How long does the bullet train from Beijing to Xi’an take?
A: The high-speed train from Beijing to Xi’an takes approximately 4-5 hours, depending on the specific train and route. This is significantly faster than traditional trains, which can take up to 12 hours. The bullet train offers a smooth and comfortable journey, making it an ideal choice for travelers.
Q: Can I do a day trip to see the Terracotta Warriors from Beijing?
A: While it’s technically possible to do a day trip from Beijing to see the Terracotta Warriors, it’s not recommended due to the travel time involved. A better option is to spend at least one night in Xi’an. This allows you to fully experience the Terracotta Warriors and other attractions in Xi’an without feeling rushed.
Q: Where do I take the train from Beijing to Xi’an?
A: Trains to Xi’an depart from either Beijing West Railway Station or Beijing South Railway Station. The specific station depends on your chosen train. Be sure to check your ticket for the correct departure station. Both stations are easily accessible by subway or taxi from central Beijing.
Q: Is booking a tour or traveling independently to the Terracotta Warriors better?
A: Both options have their merits. Booking a tour can be convenient as it usually includes transportation, tickets, and a guide. However, traveling independently gives you more flexibility and can be more cost-effective. If you’re comfortable navigating in China, independent travel allows you to explore independently. Consider hiring a local guide at the Terracotta Warriors site for in-depth information.
Q: What’s the best time to visit the Terracotta Warriors?
A: The best time to visit the Terracotta Warriors is spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and comfortable. These seasons also tend to have fewer crowds than the peak summer months. If possible, try to visit on a weekday to avoid weekend crowds.
Q: Are there any other attractions near the Terracotta Warriors worth visiting?
A: There are several attractions worth visiting near the Terracotta Warriors. In Xi’an City, you can explore the ancient City Wall, visit the Muslim Quarter for delicious street food, and see the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. The Huaqing Hot Springs, located near the Terracotta Warriors, is also a popular site known for its connection to the Tang Dynasty.
Q: How do I get to the Terracotta Warriors site from Xi’an city center?
A: From Xi’an city center, you can take tourist bus line 5 (306) from the Xi’an railway station east square to the Terracotta Warriors museum. The journey takes about an hour. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or book a private transfer. Many hotels also offer shuttle services to the site.
