How to get to Terracotta Army from Beijing

The Great Wall and the Terracotta Warriors are two of China’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Many travelers start their journey in Beijing, exploring the Great Wall, before heading to Xi’an to see the Terracotta Warriors. With the convenience of high-speed trains and flights, the journey has become much more accessible than in the past. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to get from Beijing to the Terracotta Warriors.

Distance and Locations

  • Distance: Approximately 1,065.7 km (662 miles) from Beijing to the Terracotta Warriors.
  • Beijing: Located in northern China, bordered by Tianjin and Hebei Province.
  • Terracotta Warriors: Located in Lintong District, Xi’an, about 1.5 km east of Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Museum.

Travel Options from Beijing to Terracotta Warriors

1. By High-Speed Train (Recommended)

  • Travel Time: 4.5 to 6 hours.
  • Departure:
    • From Beijing West Railway Station (北京西站).
  • Arrival:
    • At Xi’an North Railway Station (西安北站).
  • Frequency: About 20 trains daily from 6:30 AM to 7:00 PM.
  • Ticket Classes: Second Class, First Class, and Business Class.

Transfer from Xi’an to Terracotta Warriors:

  • Xi’an North Railway Station:
    • Distance: ~48 km (30 miles).
    • Options:
      • Direct Tourist Bus: Free with same-day train tickets (8:00 AM to 4:00 PM).
      • Taxi: About CNY 150, takes ~1 hour.
      • Public Transport: Metro Line 2 + Line 1 + Bus No. 307; takes about 2.5 hours and costs less than CNY 20.
  • Xi’an Railway Station:
    • Options:
      • Tourist Bus (Line 5): About 2 hours, CNY 7.
      • Taxi: About CNY 120, takes ~1 hour.
      • Public Transportation: Over 2 hours, involves several bus transfers.
  • Xi’an South Railway Station:
    • Options:
      • Taxi: ~CNY 170, takes about 70 minutes.
      • Public Transport: Complicated and time-consuming; not recommended.

2. By Overnight Sleeper Train

  • Travel Time: 12 to 17 hours.
  • Departure:
    • From Beijing West Railway Station or Beijing Railway Station.
  • Tickets: Cheaper than high-speed trains; saves on accommodation for the night.

Transfer from Xi’an: Similar to the options listed above for high-speed trains.

3. By Plane

  • Flight Time: Approximately 2 hours.
  • Airports:
    • Depart from Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK).
    • Arrive at Xi’an Xianyang International Airport (XIY).
  • Frequency: About 25 non-stop flights daily.

Transfer from Xi’an Airport to Terracotta Warriors:

  • Taxi: ~CNY 170, takes about 1 hour.
  • Metro + Shuttle Bus: Takes 2.5 to 3 hours.

Planning Your Tour

Beijing Highlights (2-3 Days)

  • Must-See Attractions:
    • Great Wall
    • Forbidden City
    • Tiananmen Square
    • Peking Opera

Xi’an Highlights (2-3 Days)

  • Must-See Attractions:
    • Terracotta Warriors
    • Ancient City Wall
    • Giant Wild Goose Pagoda
    • Muslim Quarter

Travel Tips

  • Book Train Tickets Early: Especially during peak travel seasons.
  • Consider Guided Tours: Many offer transportation and local guides for a hassle-free experience.
  • Weather Considerations: Check the weather before your trip for a better experience.