Xian
144h & 240h Transit Guide — ChinaNeighbor
Why Transit Through Xi’an?
Xi’an is one of China’s four great ancient capitals and the starting point of the Silk Road. Home to the Terracotta Army — one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century — Xi’an is a bucket-list destination for most travelers.
Key fact: With 240h transit, you can travel within Shaanxi province — which includes not just Xi’an but also the ancient capital cities of Han (Hanzhong) and Tang (Xi’an).
144h Itinerary — 2 Days in Xi’an
Day 1: Ancient Wonders
Morning — Terracotta Warriors (兵马俑) Arrive at opening time (8:30 AM). The three excavated pits display thousands of warriors, horses, and chariots. Allow 3-4 hours. Take Metro Line 9 to Huaqing Palace, then Bus 602 or a taxi (¥30-50) to the site.
Midday — Huaqing Hot Springs (华清宫) Adjacent to the Terracotta Army, this Tang dynasty palace is where Emperor Xuanzong hosted his famous consort Yang Guifei. The outdoor pools and views are memorable.
Afternoon — Great Mosque & Muslim Quarter Return to the city and explore the Great Mosque of Xi’an — one of China’s oldest and largest. Then walk through the bustling Muslim Quarter (回民街) — try yangrou chuan (lamb skewers) and liangpi (cold noodles).
Day 2: City Wall & Old City
Morning — Xi’an City Wall (城墙) Rent a bicycle (¥45 for 90 min) and ride the 14 km circuit on top of the ancient Ming dynasty wall. The best time is early morning. Access via Metro Line 2 to Yongning Gate (永宁门).
Midday — Giant Wild Goose Pagoda (大雁塔) This 7th-century Buddhist pagoda is one of Xi’an’s icons. The surrounding Daci’en Temple complex and North Square are impressive. Take Metro Line 3 or 4 to Da Ci’en Temple.
Afternoon — Shaanxi History Museum China’s first large-scale national museum. Over 1.7 million artifacts spanning 100,000 years of Chinese history. Free entry but arrive early or book via the official app.
Evening — South Gate (永宁门) Night Scene Walk or bike the wall at sunset, then descend at the South Gate to see the nightly light show on the illuminated architecture.
Getting From the Airport
From Xi’an Xianyang Airport (XIY)
- Metro Line 14 + Line 2: ~60 min to city center (North Street), ¥7
- Airport Bus: Routes to major hotels — ¥25-35, 60-90 min
- Taxi: ~50 min to city center, ¥130-180
Getting Around Xi’an
Xi’an Metro has 9 lines. The city is compact enough to walk or bike in the old city area.
Key lines:
- Line 2: City Wall (Yongning Gate), Bell Tower, South Street
- Line 1: Muslim Quarter, East Street
- Line 4: Giant Wild Goose Pagoda
240h Extended Route: Shaanxi Province
Mount Huashan (1-2 days) — 90 min by train One of China’s Five Sacred Taoist Mountains. Famous for the world’s most dangerous plank walk (长空栈道). Take a K-train from Xi’an to Huashan North (¥40-55, 90 min), then a taxi to the cable car.
Hanzhong (1-2 days) — 1.5 hours by high-speed train Ancient capital of the Western Han dynasty. Known for its spring flowers and the Fodingshan Buddhist temple. Take G-trains from Xi’an North (¥70-90, 1.5h).
Luggage Storage
| Location | Cost | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| XIY T2 Arrivals (Left Luggage) | ¥40-60/day | 24h |
| Xi’an Railway Station | ¥30-50/day | 8:00-20:00 |
Practical Tips
- Terracotta Army: Arrive early, go on weekdays if possible
- WeChat Pay: Essential — available at XIY arrivals
- Cash: The Muslim Quarter still accepts cash more readily than other areas
Emergency Contacts
- Xi’an Tourism Hotline: +86-29-12301
- Police: 110
- Ambulance: 120