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ATTRACTION GUIDE · XI'AN

Terracotta Army

Thousands of life-size clay soldiers guarding the tomb of China's first emperor.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps

Time needed: Half a day
Entry: Paid
Best time: Morning
Area: Lintong

Thousands of life-size clay soldiers made to guard China's first emperor.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: Lintong District, Xi'an, Shaanxi

From Xi'an: About 1 hour by tourist bus 306 (from the railway station) or by car.
Pits: Visit Pit 1 (the largest), then Pits 2 and 3 and the museum.
Guide: A guide or audio guide helps explain the site.

Open in Google Maps Get directions

The story of the Terracotta Army

In 1974, farmers digging a well near Xi'an discovered fragments of clay figures. They had found the army of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor to unify China, buried with him around 210 BC.

More than 8,000 soldiers, horses and chariots are estimated to have been made, each soldier with a different face. The site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Best time to visit

Best season

Spring and autumn.

Best time of day

Opening time, starting with Pit 1.

Holidays

Very crowded during Chinese holidays.

Tips before you go

Hire a guide or audio guide to understand the pits.
Start with Pit 1 before the tour groups.
Hire an official guide at the entrance.

Best hotels near the Terracotta Army

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

Sofitel Xi'an on Renmin Square

Central luxury hotel.

See prices

Grand Park Xi'an

Hotel near the city wall.

See prices

All hotels near the Terracotta Army

What's around the Terracotta Army

Pit 1Largest pit with rows of soldiers.
Emperor Qin's MausoleumNearby burial mound.
Huaqing PalaceHot spring palace.
Xi'an cityAbout 1 hour away.

Questions travellers ask

How many soldiers are there?

An estimated 8,000 or more.

When were they discovered?

In 1974.

How far is it from Xi'an?

About 1 hour.