City
Xi'an
Formerly known as Chang’an, it is situated on the Guanzhong Plain and serves as the ancient capital of thirteen dynasties, the starting point of the ancient Silk Road, and a world-renowned historical city. With a history spanning more than 3,000 years, the Zhou, Qin, Han, and Tang dynasties all wrote glorious chapters here, leaving behind world-class historical sites such as the Terracotta Army, the Ming Dynasty City Wall, and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. With its profound historical sites, rich Guanzhong folk customs, and authentic Northwest cuisine all blending together, this city encapsulates half of China’s history and serves as a premier cultural and tourism destination where visitors can experience the spirit of China’s ancient capitals.

✈ Visa Policy
- Visitors from most countries must apply in advanceChina Tourist L Visa, China does not issue tourist visas upon arrival; your passport must be valid for at least 6 months and have blank pages available for visas.
- Xi'an Xianyang Airport: 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit: Eligible foreign nationals holding connecting flight tickets to a third country may stay only within Shaanxi Province and are not permitted to travel outside the province.
Note: The visa-free transit policy is subject to strict restrictions; if your itinerary includes travel between cities, we recommend applying for a tourist visa in advance.
💰 Payment Methods Payment Tips
- Supported by large hotels, tourist attractions, and major shopping malls Visa / Mastercard; Street food vendors and small shops should prioritize preparing small quantitiesChinese Yuan Cash (CNY)..
- You can link foreign bank cards to Alipay, which is convenient for using the subway, dining out, and purchasing tickets; some subway stations and tourist information centers at scenic spots offer foreign currency exchange.
- Tax Refunds for Outbound International Travelers: You can apply for a tax refund at stores displaying the tax refund logo if your single purchase totals 500 yuan or more, provided you depart from Xi'an Xianyang International Airport within 90 days.
📌Essential Items
Carry with youOriginal passport! All tourist attractions in Xi'an require real-name reservations; foreign visitors must present their passports to make reservations and enter the attractions.
We recommend downloading a translation app; bring a light jacket for spring and fall, use sunscreen in the summer, and be prepared for large temperature fluctuations between day and night in the winter.

🍜 Food Recommendations (For International Visitors)
Classic Dishes: Biangbiang Noodles, Rougao (Roast Pork Bun), Lamb Pita Soup, Spicy Noodles, Cold Noodles, Crispy Chicken, Sweet Rice Cake
Recommended Neighborhood: Shajinqiao (local food); Hui Muslim Street is great for taking photos, but be cautious about dining there.
⚠️ Checklist of Key Travel Tips (Important Pitfalls for International Visitors to Avoid)
- Book in Advance: For the Shaanxi History Museum and the Terracotta Army, you must make reservations through official channels using your passport; do not use scalpers or unlicensed, itinerant tour guides.
- Consumer Safety Tips: Be cautious about free, unsolicited photo opportunities in traditional costumes on the street and jade sales pitches; do not readily trust restaurant recommendations from taxi drivers.
- Scenic Area Notice: There are numerous “Terracotta Army-themed experience centers” in the vicinity of the Terracotta Army site that are not affiliated with the official museum. Please be careful not to enter them by mistake.
- Etiquette Tips: Please remain quiet in temples and museums; do not touch the artifacts on display.
- During holidays (May Day, National Day, and Chinese New Year), visitor numbers surge dramatically; it is recommended to book attraction tickets and hotels 15–30 days in advance.


