The mighty army of terracotta warriors and horses, found in three vaults 40km east of Xian, is probably the most popular tourist attraction of Xian.

Reasons to go there

This army is really huge an somewhat impressive sight!

The terracotta figures are life-like and life-sized. They vary in height, uniform and hairstyle in accordance with rank. The tallest being the Generals. The figures include warriors, chariots, horses, officials, acrobats, strongmen, and musicians. The original weapons were stolen shortly after the creation of the army and the coloring has faded greatly.

Helpful Tips

Make sure you get off at the actual Terracotta Army site and not at the fake ‘Tomb’ abobut a mile or so before it which is a rip off tourist trap.

You’ll have to deal with the Terracotta Tourist Trap Army: ranks upon ranks of souvenir stands, subpar and overpriced snack joints manned by aggressive shills and wheedling vendors.

Xian is, like other Chinese cities, generally quite safe. Just watch out for pickpockets (usually children) in crowds.

I recommend to compare hotel prices very well in Xian. Different booking sites have totally different prices for the same hotel.

How to get there

There are buses leaving regularly for the Terracotta Warrior museum in front of the Xi’an bus station (opposite the train station, just outside the city walls). Take bus 306 (Chinese bus green 5) from the central bus station. It will take you to a parking lot right in front of the museum site within 40 minutes. A one way ticket costs ¥7.

Additional Infos

The terracotta figures were manufactured both in workshops by government labourers and also by local craftsmen. The head, arms, legs and torsos were created separately and then assembled. Studies show that eight face moulds were most likely used and then the clay was added to give them individual facial features.