Terracotta Army Tours

Terracota Army which includes a statue or sculpture and interior views
Terracota Army which includes a statue or sculpture
Terracota Army featuring interior views and a statue or sculpture
Terracota Army which includes a statue or sculpture and interior views
Terracota Army which includes a statue or sculpture


Marvel at the thousands of sculpted soldiers, horses and chariots keeping the first Emperor of China company in the afterlife.

The rows of thousands of figures that make up the Terracotta Army is among the most astonishing sites in the country. These sculpted soldiers, horses and chariots depict the armies of first Emperor of China Qin Shi Huang, serving to protect him in the afterlife. Get face to face with these fascinating relics for a sense of their large size.

Take a guided tour in English of this fascinating mausoleum. Learn about the funerary art and its meaning. Plaques also offer background information about the pits of statues. Alongside the military figures are other characters, such as acrobats and musicians.

The museum is split into three large pits that take up an area of 4 acres (1.6 hectares). Spend a few hours inspecting the intricacies of each statue. Note the battle formations and strategic positioning of some of the warriors and horses.

Find out about the history behind the mausoleum. Emperor Qin Shi Huang started work on the project after ascending the throne in 246 B.C. Local farmers uncovered the site while digging a well in 1974. Estimates suggest that the three main pits contain sculptures of around 8,000 soldiers, 130 chariots with multiple horses and 150 cavalry horses.

The Terracotta Army is part of the larger Lishan Garden, which contains the Museum of Terracotta Acrobats, the Museum of Terracotta Civil Officials and the Museum of Stone Armory. Ride the shuttle buses between the museums.

Reach the site of the emperor’s tomb, which is marked by plants outside. An underground palace is not open to the public.

There is an admission fee to enter the complex, which opens daily from morning until early evening. The ticket includes the entire complex of Lishan Garden and the shuttle buses around the site.

The Terracotta Army is 25 miles (40 kilometers) east of Xi’an. Take a shuttle bus or taxi from the Xi’an Xianyang International Airport. Regular buses also depart from the Xi’an Railway Station, taking around 1 hour to reach the site.

Plan a trip to see Terracotta Army

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HeSu DESIGNER Hotel & Suites - Xi'an Drum Tower & YONGNING Gate Branch
Gran Melia Xian
UrCove by Hyatt Xian Bell Tower

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Reviews of Terracotta Army

4.7
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
79
5 - Excellent 75%
4 - Good
24
4 - Good 23%
3 - Okay
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3 - Okay 3%
2 - Disappointing
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4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

It's very much worth visiting.  There is a lot of walking and I would recommend doing it with a tour guide and go early because of the crowds.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

If rain or snow threatens, borow an umbrella from the concierge (excellent service) 50 yuan deposit

5/5 - Excellent

Natalie

We were grateful to have a guide. Go early in the morning. We went on national holiday and it was busy— but I expect it is always busy. Walk through the streets nearby afterwards for yummy street food!

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Incredible display, but go early in the day.  The parking is not good and the venue fills up.  Be ready for lots of people.

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Terracotta Army

MeihaoHotel TerraCottaWarriorsHuaqing

MeihaoHotel TerraCottaWarriorsHuaqing

3 out of 5
Shuyuan East Road, Numero 8, Xi'an, 3149
MeihaoHotel TerraCottaWarriorsHuaqing
Angsana Xi'an Lintong

Angsana Xi'an Lintong

5 out of 5
No. 8 East Yuechun Road, Lintong District, Xi'an, Shaanxi
Angsana Xi'an Lintong
Sheraton Xi'An Chanba

Sheraton Xi'An Chanba

5 out of 5
No. 777 Euro-Asia Avenue, Chanba Ecological, Xi'an, Shaanxi
Sheraton Xi'An Chanba
Holiday Inn Xi an Chanba by IHG

Holiday Inn Xi an Chanba by IHG

3 out of 5
No. 5189, Shibo Ave, Chanba Ecological Zone, Xi'an, Shaanxi
Holiday Inn Xi an Chanba by IHG
Le Meridien Xi'an Chanba

Le Meridien Xi'an Chanba

4.5 out of 5
6 West Section, Euro-Asia Avenue, Chanba Ecological District, Xi'an
Le Meridien Xi'an Chanba
Jinmao Hotel Xi'an Downtown

Jinmao Hotel Xi'an Downtown

4 out of 5
No. 36, Zhuba City, Beilin District, Xi'an, Shaanxi
Jinmao Hotel Xi'an Downtown
Hilton Xian

Hilton Xian

5 out of 5
199 Dongxin Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi
Hilton Xian
Novotel Xi'an The Bell Tower

Novotel Xi'an The Bell Tower

4 out of 5
NO 16 ANBAN STREET, XIAN, Xi'an
Novotel Xi'an The Bell Tower
W XIAN

W XIAN

5 out of 5
333 Qujiang Chi East Road, Qujiang New District, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province
W XIAN
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Terracotta Army

When visiting the Terracotta Army in Xi'an, immerse yourself in local culture with family entertainment options and quick tours. Explore nearby shopping areas for unique souvenirs and unwind at a relaxing spa. Don't miss the chance to visit a zen garden for some tranquility. The region also offers various entertainment venues to round out your experience, making it a perfect blend of history and leisure.

Shopping

The nearest shopping experience is at the Terracotta Army site itself, where you can find local vendors selling souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, the Golden Eagle shopping mall, located 24 miles away, offers a variety of shops, entertainment options, and a lively atmosphere.

Recreation

At Weinan Stadium, 13 miles from the Terracotta Army, immerse yourself in a vibrant sports atmosphere while enjoying recreational activities. Jiaodaruisun Stadium, located 22 miles away, also offers a lively sports vibe, making it perfect for an energizing day filled with physical activity and relaxation.

Adventure

At Bailuyuan Ski Area, located 15 miles from the Terracotta Army, you can enjoy thrilling skiing and snowboarding experiences, surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery. The vibrant atmosphere is perfect for sports enthusiasts seeking adventure and excitement in the heart of winter.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near the Terracotta Army with a visit to the Princess Wencheng Live Theater, where culture and romance come alive. Alternatively, enjoy the entertaining ambiance at Yisu Grand Theater or Yisu Community Theater, both offering family-friendly vibes just a short drive away.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Terracotta Army

When visiting the Terracotta Army in Xi'an, immerse yourself in the rich history by exploring nearby attractions like the mausoleum and historic palace. Experience the city's vibrant culture and business scene, while also discovering other Xi'an tourist spots. Don't miss out on the Terracotta Warriors and plan visits to nearby historic places that showcase the area's unique heritage and charm.

  • Tomb of Qin Shi Huang: Located just 1 mile from the Terracotta Army, this grand mausoleum is the final resting place of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. Explore its impressive architecture and learn about the rich history and culture of ancient China, as well as the fascinating stories behind the Terracotta Army that accompanies it.
  • Huaqing Hot Spring: Situated 4 miles away, this historic palace features exquisite gardens and natural hot springs. It's a perfect spot for relaxation, where visitors can soak in warm waters while taking in the beautiful surroundings that have inspired poets and emperors alike.
  • Huaqing Palace Ruins: Also 4 miles from the Terracotta Army, these ruins offer a glimpse into the opulent past of the Tang Dynasty. Stroll through the remnants of this historic site, once a favored retreat for emperors, and appreciate the blend of culture and natural beauty.

Best time to go to Terracotta Army

The best time to visit Terracotta Army is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January35.2°F (1.8°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
February41.2°F (5.1°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
March52.5°F (11.4°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
April61.2°F (16.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May69.4°F (20.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June78.6°F (25.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July81.9°F (27.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
August79.3°F (26.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September70.0°F (21.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October60.4°F (15.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly High
November48.7°F (9.3°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December37.2°F (2.9°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Terracotta Army

To save money on your visit to the Terracotta Army, plan your trip between November and January when hotel rates are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best deals, and consider staying on a Sunday for the cheapest rates. Use Expedia to compare prices, find special offers, and even combine your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can provide exclusive discounts and cash back for future stays. Lastly, take advantage of public transport to explore the area affordably.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Terracotta Army are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to July and October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Terracotta Army is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Terracotta Army is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around Terracotta Army is Thursday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will reveal sustainable and eco-friendly accommodations currently available. To find the best prices and special offers, sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay near the Terracotta Army with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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