The Terracotta Army, located in Xi'an, is a world-renowned wonder that every traveler to China should experience.
These incredible clay sculptures are not only artistic masterpieces but also a glimpse into the legacy of China's first emperor. Standing before these life-sized warriors, you can feel the weight of history and the grandeur of the Qin Dynasty.
As a local English-speaking guide, I visit the Terracotta Army more than 100 times a year. Drawing from my extensive experience, this guide offers essential tips and insights to make the most of your visit.
Hi, I'm Susan, a proud native of Xi'an. After traveling extensively across China, I've realized that my hometown remains my favorite. As a tour guide, I take pride in sharing the stories of Xi'an, along with its food and culture. I hope to meet you and help you experience the beauty of this city through my guidance.
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- Highlights of the Terracotta Army
- Suggested Visit Route
- How Long Does It Take
- Best Time & How to Avoid Crowds
- How to Get Tickets
- How to Get There
- Guide vs. Self-Guided Visit
- Other Tips
Highlights of the Terracotta Army
The Terracotta Army site can be divided into two main parts: the Terracotta Army Museum and the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor.
What to See at the Terracotta Army Museum
- Pit 1: The largest of the three pits, Pit 1 contains thousands of life-sized terracotta warriors and horses arranged in battle formation. The scale and order are truly astonishing. Arriving early helps you avoid the crowds and appreciate the distinct postures and expressions of the warriors.
Pit 1- Pit 2: This pit features four different military units arranged in separate formations, including kneeling archers, high-ranking officers, saddled horses, and cavalrymen. It's a great spot to get a closer look at the incredible details of each figure.
Kneeling Archer Figure in Pit 2- Pit 3: Smaller but significant, Pit 3 is considered the army's command center. Here, you'll find fewer but more finely crafted figures, offering insight into the strategic leadership of the ancient military. This is also the area where you can take photos with replica warriors that closely resemble the originals.
A photo of our guests with the replica terracotta warriors.What to Do at the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor
- Explore historical relics: Visit the tumulus and satellite pits, like K9901. Don't miss the Bronze Chariot and Horse Hall, a testament to the Qin Dynasty's advanced artistry.
- Absorb history: Learn about the site's history and construction through tour guides and videos that bring the ancient past to life.
- Enjoy nature: Take a leisurely stroll through the park's greenery, or climb the tumulus for a scenic view of the area.
- Engage with the culture: Participate in simulated archaeology activities or pick up unique souvenirs that reflect the rich heritage of the Qin Dynasty.
Mausoleum of the First Qin EmperorSuggested Visit Routes
It is recommended to explore the Terracotta Army Museum in the following routes:
During Peak Season (Holidays & Weekends)
- Start with Pit 3: This smaller, less visited pit offers a more peaceful start to your visit. It also gives you a better understanding of the army's command structure.
- Next, visit Pit 2: By now, the crowd at Pit 1 should have thinned, allowing you to explore the diverse array of figures and chariots without too much congestion.
- Finish at Pit 1: Despite any remaining visitors, Pit 1's awe-inspiring scale and the orderly arrangement of thousands of life-sized warriors and horses will leave you breathless.
During Off-Season (Weekdays with Fewer Visitors)
- Start with Pit 1: With fewer tourists, you can immerse yourself in the grandeur of the main army formation and observe the fine details at your own pace.
- Move on to Pit 2: Here, you'll discover additional elements like intricately designed chariots.
- End with Pit 3: This final pit, representing the strategic heart of the army, will provide a deeper understanding of the military structure.
This route follows the natural progression of the archaeological discovery, allowing you to appreciate each pit's unique historical significance.
After exploring the museum, take the shuttle bus to the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor. The buses arrive every few minutes.
Terracotta Warriors Tour RoutesHow Long Does It Take to Visit the Terracotta Warriors?
A full visit to the Terracotta Warriors including the museum and the mausoleum takes about 3–4 hours. If you start your visit at 10 a.m. (leaving your hotel at 9 a.m.), you'll finish by around 3 p.m.
A visit to the Terracotta Army Museum takes around 2–3 hours:
- Pit 1: 1–1.5 hours
- Pit 2: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Pit 3: 30 minutes
The Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor will take about 1 hour.
If you have extra time and energy, consider seeing "The Reborn Qin Army – The Underground Guard for Emperor Qin," a spectacular performance blending music, dance, and stage effects that further explores the history of the Qin Dynasty.
- Ticket Price: 268 yuan (36.7 USD) per person
- Duration: 70 minutes
- Show Times: 12:40 p.m., 2:10 p.m., 4:10 p.m. (Additional shows available during peak season)
Your guide can help you book tickets and provide more details about show schedules.
Best Time to Visit & How to Avoid Crowds
The best times to visit, in terms of weather, are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). These seasons offer pleasant temperatures.
Summer (June–August) is the peak season due to school vacations, so expect larger crowds and longer queues (30 minutes to 1 hour).
Winter (December–February) is cold, with temperatures ranging from 0°C (32°F) to 5°C (41°F), but it's a quieter time to visit. And make sure to dress warmly.
To avoid crowds, plan to visit on weekdays, and avoid weekends and national holidays. Starting early (between 6:30 a.m. and 7:00 a.m.) will allow you to experience the site before it gets crowded. If you arrive right at opening time, you can enjoy a relatively peaceful visit during the first hour or two. Another suggestion is to plan your trip during the off-season.
How to Get Tickets
The Terracotta Army is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with the last entry at 3:30 p.m. During peak seasons, booking tickets in advance is essential, especially during holidays and school vacations. You can book tickets for the Terracotta Army up to 10 days ahead.
You can book through the official website or WeChat official account (兵马俑票务在线). You'll receive a confirmation code or voucher, which can be presented (printed or digital) at the ticket office.
During the off-season, you may be able to buy tickets at the ticket office, but it's still a good idea to check availability and book ahead to avoid disappointment.
How to Get to the Terracotta Army
There are several ways to reach the Terracotta Army from downtown Xi'an.
One option is to take the public bus. You can catch bus 5 (306) from the East Square of Xi'an Railway Station. The journey takes about 1 to 1.5 hours and costs 7 to 10 yuan (about 1 USD), offering scenic views along the way.
Another choice is to take a taxi or a ride-hailing service. The trip takes around 45 minutes to an hour, but the cost is higher, typically between 100 and 150 yuan (14–20 USD).
Booking a guided tour is also a convenient option. The tour includes pick-up and drop-off services, and the guide shares historical and cultural insights during the ride. This allows you to relax and enjoy the journey while learning interesting facts and stories, making the travel time an enriching part of your experience.
Get to the Terracotta Army from Beijing
While it's possible to take a day tour from Beijing to the Terracotta Army, we don't recommend it as it tends to feel very rushed.
We recommend spending at least 3 days in Xi'an for a more relaxed travel pace. Taking a high-speed train from Beijing to Xi'an is a great option, with the journey taking around 4 to 6 hours.
- Day 1: Arrive in Xi'an, enjoy a local food tour, and explore popular local snack streets rather than just touristy areas.
- Day 2: Visit the Terracotta Army and watch a show in the afternoon.
- Day 3: Rent a bicycle to ride along the ancient city wall and visit the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda before heading home.
Guide vs. Self-Guided Visit
- Audio Guide: Available at the museum entrance for 20–30 yuan (3–4 USD). It provides basic information but limited interaction.
- Local Guide: A local guide costs 100–200 yuan (14–27 USD). They have in-depth knowledge of the site and can answer your specific questions about the Terracotta Army.
With a private guide, you would have a more immersive exploration and gain a deeper cultural understanding throughout your entire Xi'an trip. They can suggest the best times to visit attractions, recommend local food, and provide personalized services.
Our guide is explaining the story of the Terracotta Warriors to our guests.Other Tips for Visiting the Terracotta Army
1. Transportation from the Parking Lot
The parking lot is about 1 km (0.6 miles) from the entrance. Shuttle buses are available, but queues can be long from May to October.
If you're fit, consider walking the 15-minute distance. Guides can accompany you on the walk, providing insights along the way.
2. Accessibility
The Terracotta Warriors site is wheelchair-friendly, featuring barrier-free access. Wheelchair rentals are available and can be booked from the parking lot.
3. Luggage Storage
Free luggage storage is available on the east side of the ticket office. For added convenience, you can also leave your luggage in our private car.
4. Smart Shopping
If you'd like to purchase souvenirs, our guide can assist you at the museum's souvenir shop. They can help you select authentic, high-quality items and, if needed, even negotiate a better price on your behalf, ensuring you receive a fair deal and a meaningful keepsake.
5. Dining Considerations
There are plenty of tourist restaurants around the museum, but the quality and prices can vary, and some may be a bit pricey.
If you're short on time, they can be a convenient option. Our guides will help pick the best one for you, making sure it's both tasty and affordable, so you have a great meal without overpaying.
6. Scam Awareness
Beware of scams and avoid buying books that claim to be signed by the so-called discoverer of the Terracotta Army. Even some museum guides might try to sell them.