The Terracotta Army, Emperor Han Jingdi’s Tomb, and Xi’an – A Journey to the Heart of Ancient China
When traveling in Xi’an, one of China’s most historically significant cities, it’s important to plan your accommodation and transport carefully. Xi’an Zi Men International Youth Hostels offers a double room for about 180 RMB and a dorm bed for 50 RMB—an excellent choice for budget travelers. Getting from the train station to the hostel might seem a bit tricky: take bus number 603 and get off at the North City Gate. After leaving the bus, walk straight ahead without crossing the city wall, then turn right onto the next street. After about 50 meters, you’ll find the hostel. Since 2015, Xi’an’s transport system has greatly improved, with the metro increasingly replacing buses and GPS navigation making city travel easier.
The Great Mosque of Xi’an is the oldest Islamic temple in China, founded in the 8th century during the Tang dynasty. While only Muslims may enter the mosque itself, the entire complex is worth visiting for its four beautiful courtyards, historic pavilions, and lush gardens that create a peaceful oasis in the city’s heart. The mosque stands as a testament to Xi’an’s multicultural heritage, reflecting its centuries-long role as a key hub on the Silk Road connecting East and West.
Nearby is the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, one of the city’s iconic landmarks. Although some travelers advise skipping the pagoda and its sound-and-light shows, the adjacent park hosts an evening spectacle that enchants visitors with vibrant colors and music. Here’s a short video showcasing the show:
From Zi Men hostel to the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, you can take bus 609, though since 2015 the metro has become the faster and more popular option for getting around the city. The Terracotta Army is one of the world’s most fascinating archaeological sites. To reach the excavation site from Zi Men hostel, take bus 603 to the train station, then transfer to bus number 5 (or 306), which costs about 7 RMB and takes you directly to the museum. The bus stop near the station is easy to find as it is always crowded with tourists, making orientation simple.
Admission to the excavation site costs 150 RMB and includes access to three archaeological pits as well as the tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, which is reached by a free shuttle bus. It’s recommended to visit the pits in the order of 3, 2, then 1, saving the best-preserved and most impressive warriors for last. Note that audio guides are not available, but hiring a guide for two hours costs between 100 and 150 RMB—an excellent option for those wanting detailed insights into the history and symbolism of the army.
The Tomb of Emperor Han Jingdi is another extraordinary site where you can see not just terracotta warrior figures but also numerous figurines of peasants, eunuchs, servants, farm animals, and horse-drawn chariots made of terracotta and wood, dressed in authentic robes. The tomb was commissioned by Emperor Han Jingdi, who wished to have his entire empire and its people accompany him into the afterlife. Admission to the museum costs 90 RMB.
Getting to the tomb is a bit more complicated: from the South City Gate, take bus 600 north to the loop terminal. After getting off, walk a few hundred meters back in the direction you came from, cross a wide street, and on the left side find a bus stop. Check if bus number 4 stops there—it runs once an hour, so waiting times can be long. Take this bus to the end of the line, where the tomb entrance is located.
Brush Street in Xi’an is a unique spot to buy souvenirs, paintings, and traditional Chinese calligraphy supplies. It’s very close to Zi Men hostel—just cross Nan Dajia Street and walk straight about 50 meters. This is a great place for a half-day shopping trip and to discover local art. Before buying, it’s wise to compare prices at several stalls to avoid overpaying. The street’s name comes from the calligraphy brushes and tools sold there, making it a must-visit for lovers of Chinese culture and art.
For more practical travel tips and fascinating insights about China, visit kasai.eu, an excellent resource for those planning exotic adventures.
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