Xi'an Trip Review: Seriously Recommend Visiting During the Off-Season (March-May)!!!

Save this! The ultimate 4-day, 3-night Xi'an itinerary. Planning a trip to Xi'an in March or April? You're in luck! The Lunar New Year travel rush is over, and now you can fully enjoy the unique charm of this ancient city without the crowds. Here's a brand-new 4-day Xi'an itinerary. Enjoy your trip! 4-Day, 3-Night Itinerary Day 1: History and Modernity - Shaanxi History Museum: Known as the "Pearl of Ancient Capitals and Treasure Trove of China," this museum boasts a rich collection of artifacts from ancient times to the modern era. Book free tickets in advance through their official WeChat account (at least one week prior). You can also purchase tickets for special exhibitions like the Treasure Hall to see national treasures such as the Gold-inlaid Beast Head Agate Cup. - Joy City: Recharge here after your museum visit with a wide variety of dining options. The top floor offers stunning views of the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda—perfect for photos. - Giant Wild Goose Pagoda: The oldest and largest existing Tang Dynasty square pavilion-style brick pagoda, steeped in history. Visit the Daci'en Temple to hear the morning bells and evening drums and experience the tranquility. - Chang'an Twelve Hours Theme Park: Step back in time to the Tang Dynasty. Interact with staff in Tang Dynasty costumes, enjoy Tang-style performances, and immerse yourself in the daily life of Chang'an. - Grand Tang Mall: As night falls, the mall lights up, creating a vibrant and bustling atmosphere. Enjoy various performances, including the "Spinning Lady" and "Floating Terracotta Warriors," and admire Tang culture-themed sculptures, showcasing the splendor of the Tang Dynasty. Day 2: Exploring Ancient Charm - Sajinqiao: Xi'an's famous food street. Start your day by sampling countless local snacks, from Hu La Tang (spicy soup) and Zeng Gao (steamed sticky rice cake) to sesame paste cold noodles. - Guangren Temple: The only Tibetan Buddhist temple in Shaanxi Province. Admire its unique architecture and the numerous Buddha statues and precious Buddhist relics housed within, experiencing the mystery and solemnity of Tibetan Buddhism. - Xi'an City Wall: The largest and best-preserved ancient city wall in China. Rent a bicycle and cycle along the wall, enjoying the scenery inside and outside the city and experiencing the blend of history and modernity. - Bell Tower and Drum Tower: These two Ming Dynasty structures stand opposite each other, their morning bells and evening drums echoing through the ages. Ascend either tower for panoramic views of Xi'an and a sense of history. Visit in the evening for stunning sunset photos. Day 3: A Stroll Through Culture and Art - Shaanxi Archaeological Museum: China's first archaeology-themed museum, showcasing the region's rich archaeological discoveries. See artifacts never before displayed to the public and delve into the stories behind the excavations. - Beilin Museum (Forest of Steles): A paradise for calligraphy enthusiasts, housing a collection of steles, epitaphs, and stone carvings from the Han and Wei Dynasties to the Ming and Qing Dynasties. See masterpieces by renowned calligraphers like Yan Zhenqing and Liu Gongquan. - Shuyuanmen: A quaint cultural street lined with shops selling traditional writing materials, calligraphy, and paintings. Stroll along and soak in the rich cultural atmosphere. - Xiangzi Temple: A Taoist temple of the Quanzhen School, believed to be where Han Xiangzi, one of the Eight Immortals, became a monk. Admire the simple and elegant architecture and peaceful surroundings. - Defu Lane: A charming bar street with a bohemian vibe. In the evening, find a bar you like, relax, and enjoy the music. Day 4: Uncovering Historical Sites - Terracotta Army: A world-renowned archaeological wonder. The sheer scale of the underground army is awe-inspiring. Hire a guide or rent an audio guide to fully appreciate the history and culture behind the Terracotta Army. - Mount Li Scenic Area: Home to the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor. While the underground palace remains unexcavated, the natural scenery and historical relics within the park are worth exploring. Take in the historical atmosphere from a high vantage point. - Huaqing Palace: A former imperial palace and hot springs resort, steeped in the romantic tale of Emperor Xuanzong and Yang Guifei. Visit the Tang Dynasty hot springs ruins and the Xi'an Incident site to learn about different historical periods. - Mount Li: Known for its beautiful natural scenery, including beacon towers and the Lao Mu Temple. Take the cable car up the mountain to enjoy the views and save energy. - The Song of Everlasting Sorrow: A large-scale outdoor historical dance drama performed against the backdrop of Huaqing Palace, depicting the love story of Emperor Xuanzong and Yang Guifei. Don't miss this spectacular performance. Book tickets in advance through the official WeChat account and choose front-row seats for the best viewing experience. Accommodation Recommendations - Near the Bell Tower: Centrally located with convenient transportation, numerous dining options, and close proximity to many attractions. - Near the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda: A beautiful area with many unique hotels and guesthouses. Enjoy the night view of the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda. - Near subway stations: Convenient access to the subway makes getting around easy. Choose accommodation based on your budget and preferences. Transportation Guide - Subway: Xi'an's subway system is extensive and the preferred mode of transport. Use the Xi'an Subway QR code in Alipay or WeChat for easy access. - Ride-hailing apps/Taxis: Use major platforms for transparent pricing and convenient travel. - Shared bikes: A great way to explore the city for short distances, enjoying the scenery and navigating the streets and alleys. Food Guide - Rou Jia Mo (Chinese Hamburger): Fan Ji's Rou Jia Mo is famous for its tender meat and crispy bun. Zi Wu Lu Zhang Ji is another local favorite, known for its juicy meat. - Yang Rou Pao Mo (Pita Bread Soaked in Lamb Soup): Lao Sun Jia is a time-honored restaurant serving flavorful lamb soup and chewy pita bread. Tong Sheng Xiang is another excellent choice with generous portions. - Liang Pi (Cold Noodles): Qin Yu Liang Pi offers delicious sesame paste cold noodles with a rich aroma and smooth, chewy texture. Wei Jia Liang Pi offers a variety of flavors popular among younger diners. - You Po Mian (Oil-Splashed Noodles): Liu Xiang Mian serves wide, thick noodles topped with chili flakes, garlic, and sizzling hot oil. A truly satisfying dish. - Zeng Gao (Steamed Sticky Rice Cake): The Zeng Gao at Sajinqiao is soft, sweet, and glutinous, a perfect blend of sticky rice and red dates.