The Terra Cotta Army
The Terra Cotta Army in Xi’an, Shaanxi Province, China, is a world – renowned archaeological wonder and a must – visit destination for travelers. Discovered in 1974, this vast collection of life – sized terracotta sculptures was created to accompany Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife. If you’re planning to visit this amazing site, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your trip.
1. Transportation
By Bus
- Tourist Bus: You can take the Tourist Bus Line 5 (306) from the east square of Xi’an Railway Station. The bus runs frequently and directly to the Terra Cotta Army Museum. It’s an affordable option, and the journey takes about an hour. Make sure to board the official bus and avoid any unlicensed vehicles.
- Regular Bus: There are also regular bus routes like 914 and 915 that go to the museum. They stop at multiple points along the way, so the travel time may be a bit longer, but they are also convenient and cost – effective.
By Subway and Shuttle Bus
- First, take Line 9 of the Xi’an Subway to Qinling Beiyuan Station. Then, transfer to the shuttle bus that goes directly to the Terra Cotta Army Museum. This combination is a relatively fast and comfortable way to reach the destination.
By Taxi or Ride – sharing Service
Taking a taxi or using a ride – sharing service like Didi is the most convenient but also the most expensive option. Simply tell the driver the Chinese name “秦始皇兵马俑博物馆” (Qín Shǐ Huáng Bīng Mǎ Yǒng Bó Wù Guǎn) to ensure you get to the right place.
2. Visiting Duration
It is recommended to spend at least 2 – 3 hours at the Terra Cotta Army Museum. This will give you enough time to explore the three main pits where the terracotta warriors are located, visit the exhibition hall to see some of the precious artifacts, and take in the historical significance of this remarkable site. If you are particularly interested in history and archaeology, you may want to allocate even more time to fully appreciate every detail.
3. Visiting Route
- Pit 1: Start your visit at Pit 1, which is the largest and most impressive of the three pits. Here, you’ll see thousands of life – sized terracotta warriors, horses, and chariots arranged in battle formations. The sight is truly awe – inspiring, and you can get a sense of the grandeur of Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s army.
- Pit 2: After Pit 1, move on to Pit 2. Although it is still under excavation, it contains a variety of different types of terracotta figures, including archers, cavalry, and infantry. You can observe the ongoing archaeological work and learn more about the excavation process.
- Pit 3: Pit 3 is the smallest of the three pits but is also of great historical value. It is believed to be the command center of the army, with a smaller number of more elaborately crafted terracotta figures.
- Exhibition Hall: Finish your visit at the exhibition hall, where you can see some of the most precious artifacts unearthed from the site, such as the bronze chariots and horses. These artifacts provide valuable insights into the ancient Chinese civilization and the craftsmanship of that time.
4. Precautions
- Buy Tickets in Advance: To avoid long queues, it is advisable to buy your tickets in advance, either online through the official website of the Terra Cotta Army Museum or through reliable travel apps.
- Guided Tour: Consider hiring a professional guide or joining a guided tour. A knowledgeable guide can provide detailed explanations about the history, culture, and significance of the Terra Cotta Army, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of the site.
- Respect the Site: The Terra Cotta Army is a precious cultural heritage. Please follow the rules and regulations of the museum, do not touch the terracotta figures or any other exhibits, and do not litter.
- Weather Protection: Check the weather forecast before your visit. If it’s sunny, bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. If it’s rainy, bring an umbrella or raincoat.
We hope this guide will help you have a wonderful and unforgettable experience visiting the Terra Cotta Army in Xi’an. Enjoy your journey through history!
