The Terracotta Army is one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world and Xi'an's top attraction. Discovered in 1974, the site holds thousands of life-size soldiers built over 2,000 years ago to protect Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife.
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is one of the greatest symbols of Chinese history, and one of the most memorable experiences of any trip to the country.
Is the Terracotta Army worth visiting?
Yes, without question. The visual impact of seeing hundreds of warriors lined up inside an enormous excavation is unlike anything else. Every soldier has unique features, distinct facial expressions, posture and armour, reflecting the extraordinary level of artistry and organisation of the period.
What is the Terracotta Army?
The Terracotta Army is part of the funerary complex of China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. The site includes thousands of statues of warriors, horses and chariots, each with unique individual details. The complex also encompasses the Qin Shi Huang Mausoleum Archaeological Park (Lishan Garden), accessible with the same ticket.
How to get to the Terracotta Army
The site is around 35 km from central Xi'an. The main options are:
- Metro + local bus, Metro Line 4 to Huaqingchi station, then a tourist bus to the museum; the most budget-friendly option
- Taxi or Didi, more comfortable and direct, around ¥100 (~$14) one way
- Organised tour or private transfer, ideal for those wanting a guide and hassle-free logistics
The journey takes approximately 1 hour depending on traffic.
Tickets
- High season (March–November): ¥150 (~$21)
- Low season (December–February): ¥120 (~$17)
- The ticket includes access to all three pits, Lishan Garden and the shuttle bus between the two sites
Extras charged separately:
- Electric cart from the entrance to the museum: ¥5 (~$1) per person
- Audio guide: recommended for a deeper understanding of the site's history
Tickets must be purchased online in advance, they are not available at the ticket office on the day. Book at least 3 to 5 days ahead; during national holidays, reservations may need to be made up to 15 days in advance. Buy on Trip.com or the museum's official website.
How the visit works
The complex is divided into three main pits:
- Pit 1, the largest and most impressive, with hundreds of soldiers lined up in formation
- Pit 2, featuring different military formations and partially excavated figures
- Pit 3, considered the command headquarters of the army, with fewer figures but great historical significance
Beyond the pits, there are exhibition areas covering excavation, restoration and the history of the site, as well as the Bronze Chariots Exhibition, one of the most detailed in the complex.
How long to spend
Allow 2 to 3 hours to visit the Terracotta Army at a relaxed pace. Including travel time from Xi'an, the visit easily fills half a day, plan to keep the whole morning free.
Best time to visit
- Right at opening (8:30 AM), smallest crowds, no queues at the main pits
- Low season (December–February), quieter experience and cheaper tickets
- Avoid national holidays and July/August, the site becomes extremely crowded
Practical tips
- Bring your passport, it is required for entry and ticket verification
- Consider hiring a local guide or audio guide, the scale of the site is impressive, but the historical context makes the visit far richer
- Wear comfortable footwear, the complex involves a lot of walking
- Avoid weekends and Chinese public holidays whenever possible