Welcome to your ultimate guide to plan a trip to the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an, China. This guide is specifically crafted for foreign tourists eager to explore this remarkable historical site.
We will cover everything you need to know, from how to get there to what to expect during your visit. Let’s dive in!
1. Why Visit the Terracotta Warriors?
The Terracotta Warriors are one of China’s most significant archaeological discoveries. Found near Xi’an, this ancient army of life-sized soldiers was buried with Emperor Qin Shi Huang to protect him in the afterlife. The site includes over 8,000 soldiers, horses, and chariots, each with unique features.
The Terracotta Warriors were discovered in 1974 by local farmers digging a well. This accidental discovery led to one of the most significant archaeological finds of the 20th century. Excavations have since revealed thousands of warriors, each uniquely crafted with distinct features.
Visiting the Terracotta Warriors offers a glimpse into ancient Chinese history and craftsmanship. Here are some reasons to visit:
- Historical Significance: The Terracotta Army dates back to the third century BCE.
- Unique Craftsmanship: Each figure is uniquely crafted with detailed features.
- Cultural Experience: It provides a deep insight into Chinese burial practices and beliefs.
2. Best Time to Visit Terracotta Warriors
When planning your visit, consider Xi’an’s climate and tourist seasons. Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures, making them ideal times for your trip. However, it’s best to avoid Chinese national holidays, as the site becomes particularly crowded.
Although the Terracotta Army Museum is an indoor attraction, accessible throughout the year, the number of visitors tends to peak during weekends and public holidays like the National Day Holiday (October 1–7) and Labor Day Holiday (May 1–3). Winter visits offer a quieter experience, albeit with colder weather.
3. How to Get to Terracotta Warriors from Xi’an
Located 40 km northeast of downtown Xi’an city, the Terracotta Army is easily accessible. A private tour offers the most convenience, with a guide and driver managing your transportation.
Alternatively, Xi’an’s well-connected transport system, including an international airport and trains, provides various options for reaching the city.
Public Bus
The most budget-friendly option is to take bus 306 or 307 from the Xi’an Railway Station or the East Square of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. It will take you directly to the entrance of the Terracotta Warriors scenic area.
The journey takes around 1-1.5 hours depending on traffic. You don’t have to buy the bus ticket in advance. Just jump on the bus and later a bus guide will come to you and collect the money – RMB 7 per person.
Tourist Bus
Another convenient option is to take a tourist bus from the downtown area. Many tourist agencies in Xi’an offer organized tours that include transportation to and from the Terracotta Warriors. These buses are often more comfortable and provide a direct route to the site.
Taxi/Mobile Apps
Taxis are readily available in Xi’an, and you can use popular ride-hailing apps like Didi for convenience. Negotiate a fare with the driver or use the meter to reach the Terracotta Warriors.
The distance is around 40 kilometers from downtown Xi’an, and the journey takes approximately 1-1.5 hours, depending on traffic. Taxi fare: approx. 150 yuan, plus toll fee: 20 yuan.
Private Car
If you prefer a more private and flexible option, you can hire a car with a driver for the day or part of the day. This option allows you to visit other attractions around Xi’an at your own pace and convenience. Many hotels in Xi’an can assist you in arranging private car services.
Subway and Bus Combination
Take the Line 1 subway from downtown Xi’an to the Beikezhan (North 2nd Ring Road) station. From there, you can transfer to bus 306 or 307 that goes directly to the Terracotta Warriors.
By Train
Alternatively, you can take a train to Lintong, the closest town to the Terracotta Warriors. From there, a short taxi ride will take you to the site. This option is less common but offers a unique travel experience.
4. Terracotta Warriors Museum Layout
The Terracotta Warriors Museum is vast, and understanding its layout will enhance your visit. The main areas include:
Pit 1
Pit 1 is the largest and most impressive, housing over 6,000 warriors and horses in battle formation. It’s the first pit discovered and provides a breathtaking view of the sheer scale of the army.
Pit 2
Pit 2 is smaller but equally fascinating. It contains a variety of military units, including archers, cavalry, and infantry. The unique arrangement of these figures showcases the diversity of Qin’s army.
Pit 3
Pit 3 is the smallest but is considered the command center of the army. It contains high-ranking officers and war chariots, offering insight into the leadership structure of the Terracotta Army.
Exhibition Halls (the Bronze Horse and Chariots)
The Exhibition Halls display various artifacts, including bronze weapons, armor, and additional terracotta figures. The most famous artifacts on show are the Bronze Horse and Chariots. They provides context to the history and significance of the site.
4. Decide the Visiting Time in the Museum
First determine the number of days you want to spend in Xi’an. Consider other attractions you may want to visit in addition to the Terracotta Warriors.
Plan to spend at least three to four hours at the site. This includes time to explore all three pits, the Exhibition Hall, and take breaks as needed. If you have a deep interest in history, you might spend more time delving into the details.
5. Book your Tickets Online
The Terracotta Warriors Museum requires advance online ticket booking, either through their official website or WeChat account. Check opening hours and plan to arrive early for a leisurely visit.
Opening Hours and Entrance Fees
Ticket Selling Hours:
8:30 – 17:00 (March 16 – Nov 15)
8:30 – 16:30 (Nov 16 – March 15)
Opening Hours
8:30 – 18:00 (March 16 – Nov 15)
8:30 – 17:30 (Nov 16 – March 15)
Entrance Fees
RMB 120 ( all year round) /person
The ticket also includes the entrance to Qin Shihuang’ Mausoleum.
Note:
1) the Terracotta Warriors Museum is open all year round – 365 days every year! Children under the height of 1.2m are free of charge.
2) Don’t confuse the Terracotta Army Museum with Qin Shihuang’s Mausoleum. Your ticket includes entrance to both, but the mausoleum is less excavated, not much to see.
How to Book your Ticket to Terracotta Army
- Book your ticket through the museum’s official Terracotta Army Ticketing Page
- Via WeChat Mini Program
- Booking Phone Number: 029-81399127
- On-site Ticket booking is all right.
Note: There is a cap for the number of visitors during holidays. But basically, you won’t have any problem buying your tickets if you avoid visiting the site during National Holiday (Oct 01 -07).
6. How to Visit Terracotta Warriors
While planning a Trip to Terracotta Warriors, you should know visiting the Terracotta Warriors can be overwhelming due to its size and popularity.
Firstly, arriving early helps you avoid the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience. The site opens at 8:30 AM, so aim to arrive by then.
Kindly Reminder:
It is a long walk from the main entrance to the three pits site! If you don’t have strong legs, you may pay small money to take an electric car from the museum to get there.
The Terracotta Warriors are divided into three pits. Start with Pit 1, which is the largest and the most impressive. Then move on to Pits 2 and 3, which have fewer crowds.
Start with Pit 1
Most visitors begin their visit with Pit 1, the largest and most impressive pit. Once inside, you’ll see rows of life-sized terracotta soldiers, chariots, and horses.
Pit 1 is the largest and most impressive of the three pits at the Terracotta Warriors site. It houses over 6,000 life-sized soldiers, horses, and chariots arranged in battle formation.
Discovered first in 1974, it covers an area of 14,260 square meters. The warriors face east, ready to protect Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife.
Each figure is uniquely crafted with detailed expressions and armor. This pit provides a breathtaking view of the sheer scale and organization of the ancient army. Visitors can walk along raised walkways to get a closer look at the rows of warriors.
Proceed to Pit 2
After exploring Pit 1, proceed to Pit 2. Pit 2 is smaller but equally fascinating. It contains a variety of military units, including archers, cavalry, and infantry.
This pit offers a more diverse display of the Qin army’s different tactical formations. Covering about 6,000 square meters, Pit 2 was discovered in 1976. The figures in this pit are more intricately arranged, showcasing the strategic and combat skills of the ancient army.
Visitors can see figures in action poses, holding weapons, and preparing for battle. This pit also features some of the best-preserved artifacts, including bronze weapons and tools.
Pit 3
Pit 3 is the smallest and serves as the command center of the Terracotta Army. Covering an area of 520 square meters, it was discovered in 1976.
This pit contains high-ranking officers and war chariots. Unlike the other pits, Pit 3 has fewer figures, with only about 68 warriors. However, it holds great significance due to its strategic role.
The arrangement suggests it was used for military planning and command. Visitors can observe the detailed features of the officers, their uniforms, and their unique positions. Pit 3 provides insight into the hierarchical structure and command system of the ancient army.
The Average Height of the Terracotta Warriors
The average height of the Terracotta Warriors is about 1.8 meters (5.9 feet). However, the heights vary slightly to reflect the rank and role of each figure. Higher-ranking officers are generally taller than the soldiers, adding to the realism of the army.
Visit the Exhibition Halls (Bronze Chariots and Horses)
In addition to the three main pits, the Terracotta Army Museum features several exhibition halls. These halls house various artifacts, including bronze weapons, ancient pottery, and other archaeological discoveries. Take your time to explore these halls and learn more about the history and significance of the site.
The most important is that there are two world-famous bronze chariots and horses whose sizes are about a half of that of real chariots and horses. So the official name of the museum is called Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum.
A 360-degree cinema
The site offers additional attractions and activities, such as a 360-degree cinema that presents the history and discovery of the Terracotta Warriors.
The movie -360 degrees, the background film, is in English and very cool, which takes about 15 minutes long. It gives some background to what you see with your own eyes.
Guided Tours and Audio Guides
Guided tours and audio guides are available at the Terracotta Warriors site. They provide detailed information about the history, significance, and unique features of the site.
Opting for a guided tour can enhance your understanding and appreciation of this incredible archaeological wonder.
Shopping for Souvenirs
There are several souvenir shops at the Terracotta Warriors Museum. Popular items include miniature terracotta figures, books, postcards, and traditional Chinese crafts. Make sure to buy from reputable shops to ensure the quality and authenticity of the items.
Preservation Efforts
You will see the Terracotta Warriors preserving efforts is still going on. Exposure to air and light can cause deterioration. Therefore, significant efforts are made to protect and conserve these ancient artifacts. Advanced technologies are used to stabilize the figures and prevent further damage.
7. Wheelchair users Visiting the Terracotta Warriors
Wheelchair users visiting the Terracotta Warriors will find several facilities to ensure an accessible and comfortable experience. The Museum of the Terracotta Warriors and Horses of Qin Shi Huang offers free wheelchair rentals at the Tourist Service Center.
Additionally, the site features multiple accessible restrooms and ramps for easy navigation. Volunteers are available periodically for assistance, and staff at the service center can provide further support and information.
The museum’s layout is designed to accommodate wheelchair users, allowing them to explore the pits and exhibition halls with ease.
8. Service Facilities at the Museum
Parking
- Parking Lot: [Terracotta Warriors Parking Lot]
- Reference Price: 20 RMB per time
- Address: Near Qinling North Road, Lintong District, Xi’an, Shaanxi Province
- Capacity: 500 spaces
Mobile Charging
- Location: The Tourist Service Center at the Museum of the Terracotta Warriors is equipped with charging power outlets.
Luggage Storage
- Reference Price: Please consult the on-site staff.
- Address: Luggage storage is located east of the ticketing center.
Tour Guide Services
- Location: The Tourist Center at the Museum of the Terracotta Warriors
- Services Offered: Electronic guide services and expert appointment explanation services.
- Details: Professional explanation services available in Chinese, English, and Japanese. Expert appointment explanation services are available. Free broadcast search services are offered. Volunteers provide free consultation services periodically.
Stroller Rental
- Reference Price: Free
- Location: Tourist Service Center
Wheelchair Rental
- Reference Price: Free
- Location: Tourist Service Center
Restrooms
- Location: The Museum of the Terracotta Warriors has multiple restrooms. There are five restrooms inside the museum and five in Lishan Garden. You can choose to use them according to the guide signs.
Smoking Area
- Location: There are several smoking areas within the scenic area.
ATM
- Location: To the right of the main entrance at the Tourist Service Center
Dining
- Cost: Charged
- Location: There is a buffet inside the scenic area.
Vending Machines
- Location: Tourist Service Center
Convenience Stores
- Location: There are several convenience stores at the entrance and within the scenic area.
Visiting the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers a deep dive into China’s rich history. With this “Plan a Trip to Terracotta Warriors” guide, you are now equipped with all the information needed to plan a smooth and enjoyable trip. From how to get there to what to expect, every detail has been covered to ensure you have an unforgettable visit.
By following these tips and guidelines, your trip to the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an will be smooth and enjoyable. Remember to plan ahead, pack appropriately, and respect this significant historical site. Happy travels!
