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The word “tower” doesn’t quite do justice to the enormous structure of the Xian Bell Tower - or Zhonglou, rising on an imposing square base to a series of terraces and three graceful pagoda roofs. This is nothing less than the symbol of Xian, positioned at the meeting point of its north-south and east-west axes. Originally built in 1384 under the mighty Ming Dynasty, it was subsequently moved to ensure it retained its central position, with its base later rebuilt.

Enjoy great views of central Xian from this masterpiece of classical Chinese architecture. You can still see the original bell here, though it’s no longer rung to announce the dawn (not that you would hear it over the traffic anyway); instead you can enjoy regular musical performances on a variety of smaller bells.

Bell Tower (Zhonglou)

The 1974 discovery of thousands of life-sized Terracotta Warriors near Xian was one of the archaeological sensations of the 20th century. The figures date from 210 BC and were meant to guard the first emperor of China in the afterlife.

A huge statue of the emperor now guards the entrance to the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, undeniable high point of any trip to Xian. To avoid disturbing these priceless treasures, they were left in situ with enormous structures now shielding them from the elements.

Three enormous pits are filled with row upon row of these remarkable effigies, with the first pit alone holding some 6,000 examples in excellent condition. There is a fourth exhibition space which holds other pieces found here, including bronze horses and chariots.

Terracotta Warriors Museum (Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum)

One of Xi'an’s newest attractions, the Xian Museum, stands nearby one of its oldest, the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, built around 707. The 15-tiered stone structure has witnessed centuries of history—a history on display in its neighboring museum through a collection of archaeological pieces, jade ornaments, calligraphy, and Buddhist art. The BasicsWhile not as popular as the Shaanxi History Museum and Big Wild Goose Pagoda, this pair of Xian attractions offers a juxtaposed glimpse at the city, ancient and modern. Climb a narrow staircase to the top of the pagoda for panoramic views over the temple complex and then head into the museum to watch a video on the history of the pagoda before touring the collection of Buddhist statues and other works of art. The Xian Museum and neighboring pagoda are sometimes included in sightseeing tours, along with Xi'an attractions, such as the Terracotta Warriors, Xi'an City Wall, and the Muslim District. Things to Know Before You GoThe Xian Museum and Small Goose Pagoda are must-sees for history buffs and those looking to get off the beaten path.Jianfu Temple, where the Small Goose Pagoda is located, is free to enter but both the pagoda and museum require tickets.Don’t forget to bring a valid photo ID to pick up a free ticket to the museum.Only a limited number of tickets are available each day, so book early to avoid disappointment. How to Get ThereBoth the museum and pagoda are situated on the grounds of Jianfu Temple in south Xi'an. Tourist buses 7 and 8 both stop near the temple at Xiaoyanta Station, or you can ride the Xi'an Metro (Line 2) to Nanshaomen Station. When to Get ThereThe temple grounds are open Wednesday to Sunday throughout the year. Plan to visit on a weekday morning, if possible, and avoid visiting on Chinese national holidays. The Magical History of the Small Wild Goose PagodaAccording to local legend, an earthquake in 1487 created a large crack in the wall of the Small Wild Goose Pagoda. In 1521, another earthquake shook the structure, but this time the crack disappeared seemingly overnight. During a restoration in the late 20th century, architects learned that the rammed earth foundation of the pagoda allows it to withstand earthquakes by evenly distributing the pressure, though the mysterious sealing of the crack has never been explained.

Xian Museum & Small Wild Goose Pagoda (Xiaoyanta)

The Tang dynasty was a high point in Xian’s long and illustrious history. If you don’t mind forgoing a little historical accuracy in the name of entertainment, the Tang Dynasty Show evokes the color and spectacle of this golden age through traditional instruments, intricate costumes, set designs, and fine Chinese cuisine.The BasicsWhile it’s possible to attend just the show itself, most visitors combine the stage production with a dumpling feast in the on-site Palace Restaurant, featuring a variety of Chinese dumplings and other local specialties. Those wanting to make the most out of a day in Xian can opt for a private or small-group tour that includes a visit to the Terracotta Warriors, Hanyangling Museum, and the Tang Dynasty Show to wrap up the evening. Most multi-day tours through China with Xian on the itinerary include the show as well. Things to Know Before You GoThe Tang Dynasty Dinner Show is perfect for couples and families.Choose a tour with hotel pickup and drop-off for added convenience.The musical show and dumpling dinner last about three hours. How to Get ThereTo reach the Tang Dynasty Palace theater, take the Xian metro (line 2) to Nanshaomen Station and leave through exit B. Several public buses also stop nearby at Caochangpo Station. Many guided evening tours include round-trip transportation.When to Get ThereThe Tang Dynasty Show is staged nightly. Dinner starts just before 7pm, and the show itself begins at 8:30pm. It’s a good idea to show up a few minutes early to find your seat. Empress of the Great TangThis Xian dinner show takes the audience back to the Tang dynasty to tell the story of one of China’s most famous historical figures, Empress Wu Zetian. The only official female monarch in more than 2,000 years of Chinese history, Wu Zetian led a fascinating life. The Tang Dynasty Dinner Show tells her story in five parts with the accompaniment of a live orchestra.

Tang Dynasty Show

Close to the towering South Gate (Yongningmen) of the Xian City Wall, Shuyuanmen Pedestrian Street is a pedestrianized lane that’s tailor-made for souvenir shopping. Head here for traditional arts and crafts, as well as Chinese signatures from jade to chopsticks, from teapots to calligraphy. The historic-looking buildings are reconstructions.The BasicsShuyuanmen Street takes its name from the Academy Gate (Shuyuan Men), named for the long-lost Guanzhong Shuyuan, a prestigious academy on this site. Visit Shuyuanmen Street free of charge, as part of a guided or self-guided walking tour of Xian’s historic center. Shop for calligraphy equipment and finished calligraphy works, paintings and paper-cut art, not to mention jade, jewelry, chopsticks, traditional musical instruments, and more. If you’re serious about shopping, a bilingual guide can help with the essential negotiations, as well as translating calligraphy.Things to Know Before You GoShuyuanmen Pedestrian Street will interest souvenir hunters and lovers of Chinese arts and crafts.“Antiques” are, without exception, fake.Shuyuanmen Street is wheelchair-accessible, but stores are typically cramped, with narrow doorways.How to Get ThereShuyuanmen Pedestrian Street runs between South Street and Anju Alley, just north of the South Gate of the Xian City Wall. It’s an easy walk from many historic Xian attractions, including the Bell Tower, the Great Mosque, and the Muslim Quarter, but you can also reach it by metro to Yongningmen (line 2).When to Get ThereThe stores on Shuyuanmen Street generally stay open from morning until evening, and the street is particularly attractive by night, with the illuminated South Gate towering above it. Avoid visiting on major Chinese public holidays, especially Lunar New Year (late winter) and Golden Week (the first week of October).Chinese Paper-Cut ArtChinese people have been making paper since at least the second century AD, and paper cutting is an ancient folk art: Some believe the original artists used materials such as leather or thin foil. Huxian County, about 25 miles (40 kilometers) from Xian, is a center of traditional art, including paper cutting. Many of the paper-cut artworks you’ll see on Shuyuanmen Street, however, are mass-produced.

Shuyuanmen Pedestrian Street

Xian’s Muslim Quarter, also sometimes known as Muslim Street, is home to the majority of the Muslim Hui minority ethnic group. This community comprises descendants of Silk Road traders who eventually settled in Xian to form a tight-knit community that endures to this day. Visitors will find about 10 mosques in the area, as well as a lively food market and street-food scene.The BasicsThe Muslim Quarter is one of Xian’s most atmospheric neighborhoods—a favorite place for sampling local street foods or shopping for souvenirs. Many sightseeing tours in the city pass through the neighborhood, including night tours and street-food walking tours (for the opportunity to sample specialties such as dumplings, kebabs, and steamed mutton). Huimin Jie (Huimin Street) is a popular food choice.While food is a star attraction, the Great Mosque of Xian—one of the oldest, largest, and best-preserved in China—is worth a look. Keep in mind that non-Muslim visitors will not be permitted in the main hall during prayer times.Things to Know Before You GoThe Muslim Quarter is a must-visit for foodies and first-time visitors.Bring some Chinese currency in small denominations to pay for street food or knickknacks. Give yourself one to two hours to explore the neighborhood, and remember to wear comfortable walking shoes.How to Get ThereThe Muslim Quarter is located just behind the Drum Tower in the heart of Xian. If you’re coming from other parts of the city, take metro line 2 to Zhonglou station and leave through exit B, or take one of several local buses to Zhonglou Xi station. When to Get ThereThe neighborhood is lively throughout the day, night, and year, though the evening hours tend to be the most atmospheric time to visit. What to Eat in the Muslim QuarterThe sheer variety of foods on offer in this neighborhood can be overwhelming, but there are a few dishes you shouldn’t miss. Be sure to try roujiamo, a freshly baked bun stuffed with savory beef or lamb. Other popular options include cold noodles, Xian dumplings, and yangrou paomo, a pitalike bread soaked in lamb soup. For dessert, try a persimmon fruit pie.

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