Explore Xi’an: Silk Road History and Terracotta Army

More about visiting Xi'an

Xi’an is one of the most historically important cities in China, celebrated as the ancient starting point of the Silk Road and home to the legendary Terracotta Warriors. Once the capital of several Chinese dynasties, the city preserves a powerful sense of imperial history, archaeological wonder, and cultural exchange that shaped Asia for centuries.

The city’s most iconic attraction is the Terracotta Army, an extraordinary archaeological site built to guard the tomb of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. In the city center, travelers can explore the ancient city walls, the Bell Tower, Drum Tower, historic temples, and the atmospheric Muslim Quarter, where narrow streets, food stalls, markets, and mosques reflect Xi’an’s Silk Road heritage.

Xi’an is also a major destination for culinary tourism. The city’s food scene blends Chinese, Islamic, and regional influences, offering hand-pulled noodles, roujiamo, lamb skewers, dumplings, biang biang noodles, and street food that makes the Muslim Quarter one of the most exciting food areas in China.

Beyond its famous archaeological sites, Xi’an works as a gateway to ancient pagodas, mountain temples, and cultural routes across central China. For travelers interested in history, archaeology, architecture, and Silk Road culture, Xi’an is one of the most essential destinations in Asia.