China Travel Prep
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Shaanxi
Xi'an arrival guide
A strong history stop if you keep airport distance and Terracotta Army timing separate.
Use this guide, then check your own details
Prepare the hotel information you will need on arrival.
The arrival check creates a driver card only from Chinese details you confirm; otherwise it gives you a verification checklist.
Before you fly
Save these before arrival
- Xianyang Airport is outside the city; plan the first transfer.
- Book Terracotta Army logistics for a separate day, not arrival day.
- Save hotel address in Chinese.
Arrival points
- Xi'an Xianyang Airport (XIY)
- Xi'an North Railway Station
- Xi'an Railway Station
Stay zones
- Bell Tower / Drum Tower
- South Gate
- Near Xi'an North for early rail
First movement
Airport or station to lodging
Use airport transport or a car depending on luggage and arrival time; North Station is metro-connected.
First day anchor
Keep the first day simple
City Wall or Muslim Quarter area, depending on energy.
Getting around
Local transport basics
- Xi'an North is metro-connected; the airport sits well outside the city.
- Pay for the metro with an Alipay/WeChat transit QR or a single-journey ticket; both are easy once your wallet works.
- Carry your passport for the Terracotta Army and city sights.
Common mistakes
What first-timers get caught out by
- Treating Xianyang Airport as close to the center — it isn't.
- Trying to fit the Terracotta Army into arrival day.
- Use the official taxi queue or DiDi — never accept a ride from someone who approaches you inside the terminal.