Visit the Terracotta Army in Xi’an: Ticket Prices, Opening Hours, Directions

Hidden on the outskirts of Xi’an, Shaanxi Province, the Terracotta Army of Emperor Qin Shi Huang is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also a vivid testament to the artistic mastery and formidable military power of the Qin dynasty. With over 8,000 intricately crafted statues of warriors, horses, and chariots dating back to the 3rd century BC, this vast archaeological complex attracts millions of visitors each year and has been hailed as the “Eighth Wonder of the World.”

If you are planning to explore this one-of-a-kind archaeological masterpiece, don’t miss this detailed guide covering ticket prices, opening hours, and travel tips with Vietjet to help you prepare for your upcoming journey to Xi’an.

The Terracotta Army is one of Xi’an’s most important heritage sites, attracting millions of visitors every year.

1. Introduction to the Terracotta Army in Xi’an – A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Discovered by chance in 1974 by a farmer digging a well, the Terracotta Army quickly became one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of the 20th century. The site consists of a vast collection of life-sized terracotta soldiers, horses, and chariots. The average height of the figures ranges from 1.75m to 1.95m, weighing around 150–200kg. Each statue has unique facial features, expressions, and attire, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship and artistic excellence of Qin artisans.

Beyond its artistic value, the Terracotta Army vividly reflects the military strength, organizational structure, and authority of the Qin dynasty. Owing to its immense historical and cultural significance, the site was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.

In 1979, the Museum of the Terracotta Army was officially opened, becoming a key highlight within the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor – the largest imperial tomb in Chinese history. Today, the entire archaeological complex is open to visitors, featuring several main areas:

Pit 1 (Main Army Formation): Measuring 230m long and 62m wide, covering over 14,000m², this pit displays more than 6,000 infantry figures and horses arranged in complete battle formation with front, middle, rear, and flank divisions. It is the largest and most impressive pit, not to be missed.

The massive scale of Pit 1 reflects both the military might and the artistic achievements of the Qin dynasty.

Pit 2 (Archers and Cavalry): Located about 20m from Pit 1, this L-shaped pit covers around 6,000m². It features a diverse range of units including archers, cavalry, and charioteers, forming a more complex and versatile military formation. Notable highlights include general figures, saddled horses, and valuable artifacts.
Pit 3 (Command Center): The smallest of the pits, about 524m², situated northwest of Pit 1. It is believed to be the army’s command post, containing 72 warrior and horse statues. Many still retain traces of their original paint, offering a rare glimpse into the vivid appearance of the army when first created.
Bronze Chariot and Artifact Hall: Displays two exquisite half-scale bronze chariots unearthed near the emperor’s tomb. Despite being miniature, they showcase extraordinary craftsmanship in metallurgy and bronze casting from over 2,000 years ago.
Special Exhibition Hall: Hosts rotating exhibitions focusing on the excavation process, the restoration of the Terracotta Army, Qin dynasty culture, ancient weapons, and collaborative displays with museums worldwide.

Address: Lintong District, Xi’an City, Shaanxi Province, China.

Each warrior figure is unique, with distinct expressions and details.

2. Guide to Visiting the Terracotta Army in Xi’an

2.1 Terracotta Army Opening Hours

The Terracotta Army Museum is open year-round, welcoming visitors every day of the week, including public holidays. However, opening hours vary by season:

Peak Season (March 16 – November 15): 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Off Season (November 16 – March 15): 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Ticket sales usually close one hour before closing time, so it’s recommended to arrive early to avoid missing your visit. For the best experience and to avoid crowds, plan to visit early in the morning, especially on weekdays.

2.2 Ticket Prices and Booking Options

As of July 2025, ticket prices are as follows:

Standard Ticket: 120 RMB per person (approx. 430,000 VND)
Included: Admission to the three main exhibition areas (Pits 1, 2, and 3) and Lishan Garden, plus round-trip shuttle bus service between the Terracotta Army Museum and Lishan Garden.
Not Included: Electric cart service from the main gate to the museum (approx. 10 minutes on foot) and electric carts inside Lishan Garden.

Tickets can be purchased directly at the ticket office of the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor or online via the museum’s official website and WeChat account. Travelers can also book in advance through travel apps and enjoy attractive discounts.

3. How to Get to the Terracotta Army

The Terracotta Army site is located about 40 km northeast of Xi’an city center. From downtown, there are several transportation options depending on your budget, schedule, and preferences:

Tourist Bus: The most popular and budget-friendly option. From Xi’an East Square (near Xi’an Railway Station), visitors can take tourist bus No. 5 directly to the Terracotta Army Museum.
Subway + Bus Combination: Take Metro Line 1 to Fangzhicheng Station, then transfer to bus 602 or 613 to reach the museum. This option takes longer but is ideal for those who want to explore Xi’an’s public transport system.
Taxi / Ride-hailing (Didi): A convenient and flexible option, especially for groups or travelers with elderly companions. Taxi fares from central Xi’an range between 100–150 RMB per trip (approx. 330,000–500,000 VND), depending on departure point and time.
One-Day Guided Tour: For a hassle-free experience, book a full-day tour from local travel agencies in Xi’an. These packages usually include hotel pick-up, entrance tickets, and an English/Chinese-speaking guide.

4. Travel Tips for Visiting the Terracotta Army

4.1 Things to Keep in Mind

To make the most of your visit, it’s important to plan ahead and follow key museum rules:

Book Tickets in Advance: The museum receives large crowds daily, especially on weekends and during peak travel seasons. It’s best to book tickets online at least a week in advance to avoid long lines and secure your preferred time slot.

During peak season, the museum is extremely crowded, so booking tickets early helps avoid long waits.

Follow Museum Rules: Do not touch statues or artifacts. Respect the space and avoid using flash photography to protect the relics.
What to Bring: Carry drinking water and light snacks, as the area is vast with limited food stalls inside. Check the weather forecast and bring an umbrella/raincoat if visiting during the rainy season.

4.2 Nearby Attractions

After exploring the Terracotta Army, consider visiting nearby attractions to enrich your cultural journey in Xi’an:

Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor: Located close to the museum, this is the centerpiece of the Qin Emperor’s tomb complex – the largest imperial tomb in Chinese history. The pyramid-shaped mound is believed to house countless treasures alongside the emperor. While the central tomb chamber remains unexcavated and closed to the public, surrounding areas and exhibitions provide valuable insights.
Huaqing Hot Springs (Huaqing Palace): About 10 km from the site, this historic resort once served as an imperial retreat. Featuring elegant palace-style gardens and scenic landscapes, it is famously associated with the romance between Emperor Xuanzong of the Tang dynasty and his beloved consort Yang Guifei.
Xi’an Muslim Quarter: Back in the city center, the vibrant Muslim Quarter is a culinary paradise offering specialties such as lamb skewers, beef flatbread, and hand-pulled noodles. The area is also known for its unique blend of Chinese and Islamic culture, reflected in its Middle Eastern-inspired architecture and bustling atmosphere, day and night.

Visiting the Terracotta Army is not only a chance to admire one of the world’s greatest archaeological wonders but also a journey back in time to the powerful Qin dynasty. If you’re ready to explore this cultural treasure, don’t miss out on finding great-value flights to Xi’an with Vietjet. Especially, the 0 VND flight ticket promotion from 12:00 – 14:00 daily will help you save on travel costs. Learn more [here].

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