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When you plan a Visit to Terracotta Warriors in Xi'an do know that while the Terracotta Warriors are the most iconic feature to see, the museum is actually called the Emperor Qinshihuang's(秦始皇) Mausoleum Site Museum. There is plenty more to see beyond the Terracotta Warriors.
Visiting the Terracotta Warriors is a must-do for any Xi'an trip or China trip in general. With the new relaxed visa policy and updated public transportation network since 2024, it's essential to plan your visit to the Terracotta Warriors with careful attention.
If you're planning to visit the Terracotta Warriors, this ultimate Terracotta Warriors Visiting Guide offers comprehensive and valuable insights, as well as insider travel tips.
Whether it's choosing the best time to visit, how to get to the Terracotta Warriors from Xi'an, or how to plan your visit to various pits and exhibits, everything you need to know about visiting the Terracotta Warriors is here.
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What are Terracotta Warriors & Why Are They Worth Visiting?- TL;DR Travel Guide on How to Visit Terracotta Warriors
- Terracotta Warriors Facts
- Things to See at Terracotta Warriors
- Map & Route to Visit Terracotta Warriors How to Visit Terracotta Warriors
- How Long to Visit Terracotta Warriors
- How to Get to Terracotta Warriors
- How to Book Terracotta Warriors Tickets
- Best Time to Visit Terracotta Warriors & How to Avoid Crowds
- Nearby Attractions Around Terracotta Warriors
- Travel Tips for Visiting Terracotta Warriors
- How to Plan Your Visit to Terracotta Warriors & Beyond
- Visit Terracotta Warriors wit Asia Odyssey Travel
What are Terracotta Warriors & Why Are They Worth Visiting?
The Museum of Qin Terracotta Warriors Warriors and Horses is the burial site of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, China's first emperor, the power figure who set the foundation of Chinese civilization.
With China's new visa-free policy starting from 2024 visiting China has never been easier!
When you plan your China Trip the Terracotta Warriors are not to be missed. And it is essential to do research on How to Visit the Terracotta Warriors. Read on to Plan Your Visit!
TL;DR Travel Guide on How to Visit Terracotta Warriors
Ultimate Fun Travel Hack for Visiting Terracotta Warriors
If you don't like to do research, simply watch Jackie Chan's movie, The Myth.
The movie plot centers around the Terracotta Warriors. Watch it and you will have some history context, while not 100% accurate, and what's better is you would have vivid images in your mind when you are actually visiting Terracotta Warriors!
Is all the trip planning too demanding? Simply join a tour with Asia Odyssey Travel. Visit the Terracotta Warriors worry-free with Asia's Top 3 Tour Company.
No planning needed. We've got you covered with 24/7 travel consultants and the best local guides to accompany you all the way when visit the Terracotta Warriors. Contact Your Travel Expert Now!
Where is Terracotta Warriors
The Museum of Qin Terracotta Warriors Warriors and Horses is located about 40 km (25 miles) northeast of Xi'an, China.
How to Get to Terracotta Warriors
Metro, Bus, Taxi available. All involves some research.
Why not join a Terracotta Warriors offered by Asia Odyssey Travel, enjoy hassle-free travel.
Best Time to Visit Terracotta Warriors
Best Time to Visit Terracotta Warriors would be Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November).
What to See at Qin Terracotta Warriors Warriors and Horses
Terracotta Warriors Warriors and Horses Pit 1: The largest pit with over 6,000 soldiers.
Terracotta Warriors Warriors and Horses Pit 2: Cavalry, archers, and more.
Terracotta Warriors Warriors and Horses Pit 3: Command center of the army.
Exhibition Hall: Bronze chariots, weapons, and artifacts.
Cost for Visiting Terracotta Warriors
Terracotta Warriors Ticket Price: Around 120 RMB + Potential Extra for guide services.
Asia Odyssey Travel's all-inclusive Terracotta Warriors Tour would be your best choice to visit the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors.
Terracotta Warriors Facts
Chinese Name: 兵马俑 (Bīng Mǎ Yǒng)
English Translation: Terracotta Army, Terracotta Warriors and Horses
Features: Thousands of life-size terracotta soldiers, horses, and chariots in battle array
Attraction Type: World Heritage Site, Historical Site, Museum, Cultural Landmark
When were Terracotta Warriors Built: Constructed in 246–206 BC, discovered in 1974
Why were Terracotta Warriors Built: To accompany and protect the first emperor of China - Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife
Terracotta Warriors Opening hours: Peak Season (March 16 to November 15): 08:30-17:00\ Low Season (November 16 to March 5): 08:30-16:30
Where are Terracotta Warriors: Emperor Qin Shihuang's Terracotta Army Museum, 25 miles (40 km) northeast of Xian
How long to visit Terracotta Warriors: Half Day to Full Day
Ideal for: History and Chinese culture enthusiasts
Physical requirements: Indoor sightseeing, moderate walking, wheelchair accessibility available.
Things to See at Terracotta Warriors
The Kneeling Archer (Serial No. TKA001) – Pit 2
Serial No.TKA001
Location: Pit 2
Highlights: Best-preserved
One of the best-preserved archer figures, displaying intricate detailing in posture and attire. The kneeling stance showcases the readiness and discipline of the Qin army.
This figure is unique for its pose and the craftsmanship that captures the precision of Qin military formations.
General's Statue (Serial No. TG001) – Pit 1
Serial No.TG001
Location: Pit 1
Highlights: Elaborate armor, sophisticated detail
A life-sized figure of a high-ranking general, distinguished by elaborate armor and commanding presence.
It highlights the hierarchy of the Qin army and the sophisticated level of detail used to portray authority and leadership.
Bronze Chariot No. 1 (Serial No. BC001) – Exhibition Hall
Serial No.BC001
Location: Exhibition Hall
Highlights: Metallurgy Masterpiece, gold & silver details.
This half-life-sized bronze chariot, unearthed near the Emperor's tomb, is a masterpiece of Qin-era metallurgy.
Adorned with gold and silver details, it exemplifies the dynasty's wealth and technological innovation.
Bronze Sword (Serial No. BS001) – Weapons Hall
Serial No.BS001
Location: Weapons Hall
Highlights: Still sharp after 2,000 years
An extraordinary artifact with chrome-plating technology that kept it sharp for over 2,000 years.
It showcases the Qin Dynasty's advanced metalworking skills and the technological superiority of their weaponry.
Acrobat Figurine (Serial No. AF002) – Pit 2
Serial No.AF002
Location: Pit 2
Highlights: Contrasts with the military figures
This dynamic figure represents an entertainer from the imperial court. Its lively pose contrasts with the military figures and provides insight into the cultural and recreational life during Qin Shi Huang's reign.
Cavalry Horse and Rider (Serial No. CH001) – Pit 2
Serial No.CH001
Location:Pit 2
Highlights: Cavalry's role in warfare strategies
A detailed depiction of a cavalryman and his horse, emphasizing the importance of mounted soldiers in the Qin military. The lifelike stance of the horse and the armor of the rider offer a glimpse into the cavalry's role in warfare strategies.
Map & Route to Visit Terracotta Warriors How to Visit Terracotta Warriors
The Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum is composed of the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum and the Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Archaeological Park (Lishan Garden).
How to Visit Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum
The Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, which houses the main pits containing the warriors, is divided into three sections: Pit 1, Pit 2, and Pit 3.
Pit 1: The largest and most impressive of the three pits, Pit 1, houses the main army formation, with over 6,000 figures (2,000 are currently on display). The pit covers an area of approximately 14,260 square meters, equivalent to the size of an airplane hangar.
Pit 2: This pit is notable for its complex layout and variety of military figures, including standing and kneeling archers, cavalry, charioteers, and infantry. Despite being smaller than Pit 1, Pit 2 offers a richer diversity of the army, providing further insights into ancient military strategy and the mysteries of the army array.
Pit 3: Known as the command center, Pit 3 is the smallest but considered the most important pit due to its perceived role as the army's "headquarters."
Our Recommended Visiting Route: Pit 1 – Pit 3 – Pit 2 - Exhibition Hall
Begin with Pit 1 as it's the largest and most stunning, offering a grand first impression. Spend ample time here observing the soldiers' intricate details and formations. Next, move on to Pit 3, where you will see the army's "headquarters." Then, proceed to Pit 2, where you will encounter a more diverse array of military figures. Finally, conclude your visit at the Exhibition Hall, where you can marvel at the history of the Terracotta Warriors and Horses.
Suggested Visiting Time: 2-3 hours
How to Visit Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Archaeological Park(Lishan)
The Mausoleum Site Park of the First Qin Emperor, also known as Lishan Garden, is an archaeological park situated on the core area of the First Qin Emperor's mausoleum.
Visiting the Lishan Garden primarily involves seeing the Mausoleum of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, the relics in the burial pit site 9901 (the Hundred Plays figurines pit), the burial pit site 0006 (the Civil Official figurines pit), and the Bronze Chariots Museum.
Suggested Visiting Time: 1-1.5 hours
For history buffs, exploring both the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum and Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Archaeological Park provides a comprehensive understanding of Emperor Qinshihuang's historical significance and the scale of his burial complex. If you have sufficient time and interest, you can visit both sites. These two locations are approximately 2200 meters apart, and free shuttle buses are available for convenient transportation between the two sites.
How Long to Visit Terracotta Warriors
How long to Travel to the Museum: About 1 hour from Xi'an city center.
Hong long to Visit Terracotta Warriors Museum: 3 hours to explore Pits 1, 2, and 3, the Exhibition Hall, and walking between areas (allow an extra 15-30 minutes for walking, take golf cart to save time).
How long to visit Emperor Qin Shi Huang's Mausoleum: 1-1.5 hours to explore the grounds, including a 10-15 minute shuttle ride from the museum.
In total, expect to spend 5-6 hours visiting the Terracotta Warriors, including transportation and walking. Allow for more wait time if you plan to visit the Terracotta Warriors during the high season.
How to Get to Terracotta Warriors
To get to Terracotta Army your starting point would be Xi'an. Here are various options to get to Terracotta Army from different starting point in.
Here is an overview of your options to get to Terracotta Army. Do note there are nuance to every mode of transportation. Do read on for more details and there is a insider's way to get to Terracotta at the end of the article.
| Starting Point | Mode of Transportation | Travel Time | Cost (RMB) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anywhere | Asia Odyssey Travel Tour | Varies | Included in tour | Hassle-free | None |
| Xi'an Xianyang International Airport | Shuttle Bus | 60-70 minutes | 188 | Direct, comfortable | Pricier, less services |
| Xi'an Bei Railway Station | Direct Bus | 1.5 hour | From 30 | Direct, budget-friendly | Must book in advance |
| Xi'an Railway Station | Train+Taxi | 1 to 1.5 hour | 20-50 | Faster | Need to align with train time |
| Downtown Xi'an | Metro + Bus | 2 hours+ | 10-15 | Budget-friendly | Multiple transfer needed |
| Downtown Xi'an | Tourist Bus | 1.5 hour | 30 | Direct | Pressure to purchase |
Note: This sheet is based on transportation information updated in September 2024. Please note that the information listed is subject to change.
Read the detailed guide on How to Get to Terracotta Warriors. There's a secret route to get there by train in the article.
Or simply contact your travel expert at Asia Odyssey Travel for the latest travel guide to the Terracotta Army.
How to Book Terracotta Warriors Tickets
Official Website: You can book tickets directly through the official Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum site Museum website.
Join a Tour: Considering leave all the planing to us, Asia Odyssey Travel, your Top Asia Tour company. From booking tickets to transportation and excellent guidance, we have you covered for everything! Let's talk!
Best Time to Visit Terracotta Warriors & How to Avoid Crowds
The Terracotta Warriors Museum is popular year-round, but peak seasons can be very crowded. Since Terracotta Warriors Museum is an indoor attraction, weather isn't a big issue, but timing your visit can help avoid large crowds.
Ideal Seasons to Visit Terracotta Warriors
Peak travel times include Chinese New Year (late January/early February), Labor Day (May 1-3), National Day (first week of October), and summer holiday (June-August) would see bigger crowds as well.
For fewer crowds, visit Terracotta Warriors during shoulder seasons—March to May or September to early November. Winter is also quieter.
Best Time of Day to Visit Terracotta Warriors
The Terracotta Warriors museum opens at 8:30 AM. Arriving early helps beat the crowds. Alternatively, visiting around noon, when tour groups break for lunch, is another good option. Plan enough time to fully explore before it closes at 5:00 PM, and note it closes at 4:30 in low season.
Nearby Attractions Around Terracotta Warriors
Aside from the Terracotta Warriors, there are several other nearby attractions that you could consider including in your itinerary.
Huaqing Pool and Lishan: Royal Retreat for Emperors
Huaqing Pool(华清池), also known as Huaqing Hot Springs, is just 10 kilometers east of the Terracotta Warriors. This historic site was a popular royal retreat for Chinese emperors throughout history, famous for its natural hot springs.
The site is particularly known for the romantic legend of Emperor Xuanzong(唐玄宗) and his concubine, Yang Guifei(杨贵妃). Dating back to the Tang Dynasty, the Huaqing Pool offers a serene environment adorned with traditional pavilions, corridors, and towers, set against the beautiful backdrop of Lishan Mountain.
Lishan Mountain offers a relatively easy climb. From its summit, you'll be able to look over the structures below, providing a breathtaking view of the surrounding area.
The Song of Everlasting Sorrow: Grand Show with Water Stage
"The Song of Everlasting Sorrow"(长恨歌) is a grand outdoor performance held at the base of Lishan Mountain, near Huaqing Pool.
This spectacle of lights, music, and dance tells the heartbreaking love story of Emperor Xuanzong (唐玄宗) and his concubine Yang Guifeii(杨贵妃), which has been passed down in Chinese literature and folklore.
The show utilize the natural landscape and modern technology to create an unforgettable spectacle. The stage settings include a water stage, a dry stage, and a sky stage, making the performance a magnificent and immersive experience. The stunning visuals, coupled with the poignant tale, make this show a highly recommended cultural experience.
Travel Tips for Visiting Terracotta Warriors
1. Book the Entrance Ticket In Advance:
Given the daily limit of 65,000 entrance tickets, it's essential to secure your entrance ticket in advance
2. Get some history context before Visiting Terracotta Warriors:
Historical context can be essential for your Terracotta Warriors visit. Learn some background knowledge yourself for better experience.
3. Consider Hiring a Guide:
Hiring a guide can significantly enhance your visit. Guides can offer valuable insights into the history. Consider joining a tour rather than freelancing guide on site for a great visit.
4. Arrive Early or Late:
The Terracotta Warriors site can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist season. To avoid large crowds, consider arriving as soon as the museum opens or in the late afternoon when most tour groups have left.
5. Beware of Scams:
Upon your arrival at the parking lot outside the Terracotta Warriors, you may be approached by local villagers claiming to sell souvenirs or offering to guide you to the "real" Terracotta Army.
6. Wear Comfortable Shoes:
As the site is expansive, expect a considerable amount of walking. Wearing comfortable shoes will help you explore the site with ease.
Here's everything you need to know for Visiting Terracotta Warriors:
Discover interesting facts about the Terracotta Army : Top Terracotta Army Facts.
Uncover the mystery of who made the Terracotta Army: Who Made the Terracotta Army.
Learn about the different types of the Terracotta Army: Terracotta Army Types.
Delve into the process of how the Terracotta Army was made: How to Make Terracotta Army.
Explore all you need to know about Terracotta Army: Terracotta Army Guide.
Plan your journey to the Terracotta Army with the best ways to get there by visiting: How to Get to Terracotta Army.
How to Plan Your Visit to Terracotta Warriors & Beyond
Morning: Explore Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site
Start your day by heading to Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum, about 40 km from Xi'an.
At around 10:30 AM, make your way to Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Archaeological Park (Lishan), located nearby. This park provides more context for the archaeological efforts and the vast historical significance of the Qin Dynasty. You'll walk through the park's paths, surrounded by historical relics and ancient architecture.
Afternoon: Discover the Terracotta Warriors
After lunch, head to the main attraction — the Terracotta Warriors and Horses MuseumBegin at Pit 1, the largest and most impressive display of thousands of life-sized soldiers. Move on to Pit 3 and before visiting Pit 2, which feature cavalry, chariots, and command structures. Finish with a visit to the Exhibition Hall to see bronze chariots and other excavated treasures.
Optional Activities:
Make Your Own Terracotta Warrior: Take part in a hands-on pottery session to sculpt your own mini Terracotta Warrior as a souvenir.
Calligraphy Workshop: Learn the ancient Chinese art of calligraphy and practice writing characters with a brush and ink.
Late Afternoon: Explore Huaqing Palace
Visit Huaqing Palace, a famous historical and cultural site at the foot of Mount Li. Wander through its beautiful gardens and hot spring pools, once favored by emperors and concubines.
Evening: The Show of Everlasting Sorrow
If you opt for the show, it usually begins around 8:00 PM and lasts 70 minutes. Set in the backdrop of Huaqing Palace. Enjoy the dazzling performance before heading back to Xi'an.
Optional Add-on for Xi'an Terracotta Trip
Huashan (1-2 days): Hike to the summit of Mount Huashan located near Terracotta Army, one of China's Five Sacred Mountains, for breathtaking views and a challenging adventure.
Beijing (2-3 days): Visit the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Summer Palace.
Chengdu (2-3 days): Visit the Giant Panda Breeding and Research Center, and enjoy Sichuan cuisine.
These Xi'an Terracotta Army itineraries are just suggestions, and you can customize your itinerary based on your interests and time constraints.
Click and browse our recommended Xi'an Tours or Contact your travel expert to personalize your own Terracotta Army Xi'an itinerary.
Visit Terracotta Warriors wit Asia Odyssey Travel
Plan Your Visit to the Terracotta Warriors with Asia Odyssey Travel Now—a journey to one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of the 20th century!
Confront the awe-inspiring 8,000 life-sized soldiers stand in silent formation, guarding the tomb of China's first emperor.
From history to culture, you can see it all: chariots, horses, archers, generals, tombs, mausoleums, sculptures, craftsmanship, preservation, and excavation–all on display at the Terracotta Warriors!
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