Discover Xi'an: Top Things to Do in China's Historic Heartland
As a city with thirteen dynastic histories, Xi'an carries the most glorious chapters of Chinese civilization. This ancient yet modern city has cultural heritage that stuns the world and mouthwatering local food. If you plan to visit Xi'an, here are five things you absolutely can't miss that will let you deeply experience the soul and charm of this ancient city.
As a city with thirteen dynastic histories, Xi'an carries the most glorious chapters of Chinese civilization. This ancient yet modern city has cultural heritage that stuns the world and mouthwatering local food. If you plan to visit Xi'an, here are five things you absolutely can't miss that will let you deeply experience the soul and charm of this Ancient City.
1. Visit the "Eighth Wonder of the World," The Terracotta Army
If you haven't seen the Terracotta Army of Qin Shi Huang, you haven't really been to Xi'an. This "clay army" that has been sleeping underground for over two thousand years shocks every visitor with its grand scale and exquisite craftsmanship.
2. Bike ride on The Ancient City Wall and overlook the thousand-year-old capital
The Xi'an city wall is the largest and most well-preserved ancient wall in China. Renting a bike and riding around the 13.7 kilometer-long wall is the best way to feel the vibe of the ancient city.
3. Taste authentic Xi'an cuisine
The food culture in Xi'an is as rich and ancient as its history. Huimin Street and Yongxing Fang are two major food hubs you have to check out here.
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4. Night tour of the Grand Tang Mall, feel the atmosphere of the prosperous Tang dynasty
When night falls, it shines brightly, taking you back to a thousand years ago in prosperous Tang Chang'an. Here, not only are there stunning replica Tang buildings, but also colorful cultural performances.
5. Watch the "Chang Hen Ge" performance
The large historical dance drama "Chang Hen Ge," performed at Huaqing Palace, uses Lishan as a backdrop and high-tech stage effects to recreate the love story of Emperor Xuanzong of Tang and Yang Guifei. This performance is acclaimed as a "must-see in Xi'an" and will give you a shocking audio-visual experience.
With these five experiences, you'll fully feel the unique charm of Xi'an as a historical and cultural city. Whether it's the stunning relics or the enticing food culture, Xi'an can satisfy all your imaginations of a "Chinese ancient capital." Are you ready to start your journey through Xi'an?
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Based on 10,000+ traveler reviews
Daniel Dorothea
Canada
Reviewed on April 29,2025
Shopping on Nanjing Road in Shanghai was just amazing! It's truly the "First Commercial Street of China", where tradition and modernity blend perfectly. You can find awesome souvenirs and experience the trendy vibes in cool stores. The neon lights at night are just spectacular, shining bright like Times Square in New York. The food here is incredible too. I had a feast for my taste buds. Shanghai, I'll definitely be back!
Destination(s):
Shanghai
Date of
Experience:
May 08,2024
Elvis Eva
Canada
Reviewed on June 20,2025
As a solo traveler from Canada, I was nervous about navigating China alone—but this 11-day tour was PERFECT! From hiking the Great Wall at sunrise (Day 3) to gasping at the Terracotta Army (Day 5), every day delivered ‘pinch-me’ moments. The real showstopper? Zhangjiajie’s Avatar Mountains (Day 7)! Our guide made the stone pillars come alive with stories.
Massive thanks for handling all logistics—bullet train tickets, entry passes, car! And the 4-star hotels surprised me.
Destination(s):
Beijing Xian Zhangjiajie Shanghai
Date of
Experience:
June 02,2025
Simon
America
Reviewed on May 29,2025
Our 2-day Zhangjiajie tour was beyond spectacular! As someone who’s visited Beijing and Shanghai for work, this trip revealed China’s wild, magical heart. Day 1 in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park felt like stepping onto Pandora—I’m a huge Avatar fan, and Yuanjiajie’s floating peaks left me breathless. The misty pillars and lush valleys like pure movie magic!
Then came Fenghuang Ancient Town, we eat dinner beside the thundering waterfall. It seems Unreal! The night views of stilt houses glowing over the river were straight from a fairy tale.
For fellow Avatar lovers and adventure seekers: Don’t miss this bucket-list experience! 10/10 would return.
A Well-Traveled Film Buff, May 2025
Destination(s):
Zhangjiajie
Date of
Experience:
May 08,2025
