How to Get to the Terracotta Army
The Terracotta Army is one of the most popular tourist destinations in China, and for good reason. This incredible archaeological site is home to thousands of life-size terracotta soldiers, horses, and chariots, all of which were buried with the first emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang, in the 3rd century BC. If you're planning a trip to Xi'an, a visit to the Terracotta Army is a must.
Getting to the Terracotta Army by Bus
The Terracotta Army is located about 30 kilometers east of Xi'an, and the most common way to get there is by bus.
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From Xi'an Train Station: The easiest and most frequent option is to take public bus number 914 or 915. These air-conditioned buses depart every 4 minutes from 6:00 am to 7:00 pm. The journey takes approximately one hour and costs ¥8.
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Bus Stop and Tickets: Look for the clearly marked bus stops outside the train station. You can purchase tickets directly from the conductor on the bus. It's a good idea to have exact change ready.
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Arrival at the Terracotta Army: The buses will drop you off at the Terracotta Army Museum Park entrance. From there, it's a short walk to the ticket office and the entrance to the museum complex itself.
Other Transportation Options
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Tour Groups: Joining an organized tour is another convenient way to visit the Terracotta Army. These tours typically include round-trip transportation, entrance fees, and a guide. You can book tours through your hotel or at travel agencies in Xi'an.
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Taxis: While more expensive than the bus, taxis offer door-to-door convenience. The fare from Xi'an to the Terracotta Army is negotiable, so be sure to agree on a price with the driver before starting your journey. Expect to pay around ¥100-150.
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Private Cars: If you have your own car or are traveling with a larger group, you can drive to the Terracotta Army. There is ample parking available at the site. Be aware that driving in China can be challenging due to traffic and different driving customs.
Tips for Your Journey
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Start Early: The Terracotta Army is a very popular attraction. Arriving early in the morning, as soon as the site opens, will help you avoid large crowds and make the most of your visit.
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Bring Water: It's a good idea to bring your own water, especially if you're visiting during the warmer months, as there are limited options for purchasing drinks once inside the museum complex.
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Allow Enough Time: Allocate at least 3-4 hours to fully explore the Terracotta Army Museum Park, which includes multiple excavation pits and exhibition halls.
FAQs
Q: How long is the bus ride to the Terracotta Army? A: The bus ride from Xi'an Train Station to the Terracotta Army takes approximately one hour.
Q: What time do the buses to the Terracotta Army start running? A: Buses 914 and 915 begin service at 6:00 am.
Q: Is it easy to get a taxi back to Xi'an from the Terracotta Army? A: Yes, taxis are usually readily available at the Terracotta Army Museum Park. You can also pre-book a taxi for a return trip.