Terracotta Army

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

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Things to do near Terracotta Army

The Terracotta Army in Xi'an offers visitors a fascinating blend of history and relaxation. While exploring the magnificent archaeological site, you can also indulge in nearby activities such as rejuvenating spa treatments and shopping for unique souvenirs. This combination of cultural exploration and leisure ensures a well-rounded experience for tourists seeking both adventure and relaxation during their visit.

Shopping

At the Terracotta Army, you can enjoy local market stalls offering unique souvenirs and handicrafts. If you're up for a drive, visit Golden Eagle, located 38.6km away, which is a vibrant shopping mall centre featuring entertainment and a variety of shops perfect for gifts.

Recreation

At Weinan Stadium, immerse yourself in vibrant sports activities just 20.9km from the Terracotta Army, perfect for fitness enthusiasts. Alternatively, explore Jiaodaruisun Stadium, located 35.4km away, where the energetic atmosphere invites you to engage in various recreational pursuits.

Adventure

The Bailuyuan Ski Area, located 24.1km from the Terracotta Army, offers exhilarating skiing experiences amidst breathtaking landscapes. Embrace the thrill of gliding down the slopes while soaking in the vibrant sports atmosphere, making it a perfect adventure for winter enthusiasts.

Nightlife

In Xi'an, the Princess Wencheng Live Theater offers a captivating blend of culture and romance, just 30.6km from the Terracotta Army. Similarly, Yisu Grand Theater and Yisu Community Theater, both located 32.2km away, provide excellent family-friendly entertainment in a vibrant atmosphere.

*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, you'll find a wealth of attractions, including historic sites, mausoleums, and palaces that cater to culture enthusiasts and those seeking a unique city experience. Explore the rich history and significance of this remarkable location, as it offers a fascinating glimpse into China's ancient civilisation and its remarkable artistic achievements.

  • Tomb of Qin Shi Huang: Located merely 1.6km from the Terracotta Army, this grand mausoleum is the final resting place of China's first emperor. The tomb is surrounded by stunning landscapes and offers insights into ancient Chinese burial practices, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Qin Dynasty.
  • Huaqing Hot Spring: Situated 6.4km away, this historic palace is renowned for its natural hot springs, which were favoured by emperors. Visitors can immerse themselves in the soothing waters while exploring the beautiful gardens and ancient architecture, making it a serene cultural retreat.
  • Huaqing Palace Ruins: Also 6.4km from the Terracotta Army, these ruins are remnants of an ancient palace that once served as a luxurious retreat for emperors. The site is steeped in history and offers captivating views, allowing visitors to appreciate the grandeur of bygone eras.

Best time to go to Terracotta Army

The best time to visit Terracotta Army is dependant 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 in Xi'an, consider travelling during the off-peak months from November to January when accommodation prices are lower. Sunday is typically the cheapest day to stay, while Thursday is the most expensive. Book your hotel about a month in advance, or check last-minute deals on sites like Expedia. Utilize their price filter to find budget-friendly options, and consider combining your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Additionally, explore free activities around the site and take advantage of public transport for economical travel.

  • 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your Terracotta Army hotel accommodation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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