Terracotta Army

兵马俑

An extraordinary collection of thousands of life-sized clay soldiers buried with China's first emperor over 2,000 years ago. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a marvel of ancient craftsmanship and one of archaeology's most important discoveries.

Things to do

• Pit 1 Exhibition Hall — Walk among thousands of life-sized terracotta warriors arranged in military formation, the largest and most impressive of the three excavation pits.
• Pit 2 Exhibition Hall — Explore the smaller pit containing cavalry units, chariots, and archers that showcase the diverse military structure of the Qin army.
• Pit 3 Exhibition Hall — Visit the command center pit with fewer but more elite soldiers, including generals and officers, revealing the hierarchy of the ancient army.
• On-Site Museum and Workshops — Learn about excavation techniques and ancient craftsmanship while watching artisans demonstrate traditional terracotta-making methods.
• Pottery Workshop Experience — Participate in hands-on terracotta sculpting classes where you can create your own small warrior figurine to take home.
• Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang — Visit the burial mound of China's first emperor located about 1.5 kilometers away, the centerpiece of this vast underground necropolis.
• Bronze Chariot Exhibition — View exquisitely detailed miniature bronze chariots discovered in the mausoleum complex, showcasing advanced metalworking from the Qin dynasty.

Food to try

• Xi'an Biangbiang Noodles — Hand-pulled wide, thick noodles served in a savory broth with lamb, chili oil, and garlic, a signature Shaanxi comfort food.
• Roujiamo (Chinese Burger) — Flatbread stuffed with slow-cooked shredded meat, cumin, and spices, often eaten as a quick lunch near the museum entrance.
• Qishan Mapo Tofu — Spicy tofu dish with ground pork in a numbing chili sauce that originated in nearby Qishan county, representing authentic Shaanxi cuisine.
• Hulatang (Spicy Soup) — Hot and spicy soup made with beef broth, mushrooms, and seasonings, traditionally eaten for breakfast by workers in the Xi'an area.
• Guokui (Chinese Stuffed Pancake) — Crispy fried flatbread filled with meat, vegetables, or sweet fillings, a popular street snack available throughout the museum complex.

Local customs & good to know

• Early morning visits recommended — Arrive before 9 AM to avoid peak crowds and experience the warriors in better lighting conditions.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes — The exhibition halls require extensive walking on hard floors over several hours, so proper footwear is essential.
• Hire a local guide — English-speaking guides provide invaluable context about Qin dynasty military organization and archaeological significance that greatly enhances understanding.
• Photography etiquette in pits — While photography is allowed, refrain from using flash or touching the terracotta figures, as they are fragile ancient artifacts requiring protection.