Executive Summary: Why Xian China Belongs on Your Asia Shortlist
Xian China is one of Asia’s most compelling historic cities – home to the world‑famous Terracotta Warriors, the best‑preserved Xian city wall in China, and over a thousand years of ancient capital and Silk Road history.[5] It is also a practical, well‑connected hub that Singapore travelers can easily pair with other Asian cities, including Singapore as a base for work, lifestyle, and property investment.
This definitive Homejourney guide is written from the perspective of a Singapore‑based traveler who has visited Xian multiple times, with a focus on safety, verified information, and practical details. You will find:
- Step‑by‑step guidance to visiting the Terracotta Warriors and Xian’s top sights
- Realistic 3‑day and 5‑day itineraries tailored for travelers from Singapore
- Current practical details (transport, costs, safety, connectivity)
- Insider local tips that help you avoid crowds, scams, and overpaying
- A strategic section connecting Xian travel to Singapore real estate opportunities through Homejourney
Table of Contents
- 1. Destination Overview: Xian China at a Glance
- 2. Why Visit Xian: Terracotta Warriors & Ancient Capital Heritage
- 3. Best Time to Visit Xian from Singapore
- 4. Getting to Xian from Singapore & Getting Around
- 5. Currency, Payments & Connectivity Tips
- 6. Top Attractions & Experiences
- 7. Food & Dining: What and Where to Eat in Xian
- 8. Where to Stay in Xian: Neighbourhoods & Hotels
- 9. Practical Travel Tips, Safety & Money‑Saving Advice
- 10. Suggested 3‑Day & 5‑Day Xian Itineraries
- 11. Day Trips from Xian: Huashan & Beyond
- 12. Connecting Xian Travel to Singapore Property with Homejourney
- 13. FAQs about Xian China for Singapore & International Travelers
1. Destination Overview: Xian China at a Glance
Xian (often written Xi’an) is the capital of Shaanxi province in central China and one of the country’s Four Great Ancient Capitals.[5] It served as the seat of power for 13 dynasties, including the Qin, Han, and Tang, and was the eastern terminus of the historic Silk Road.[5] Today, it combines monumental relics with a busy modern city of over 10 million people.
Fast facts for Singapore travelers
- Flight time from Singapore: about 6–7 hours with one stop (usually via Chengdu, Guangzhou, or Beijing)
- Time zone: China Standard Time (GMT+8) – same as Singapore, so no jet lag
- Currency: Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY)
- Language: Mandarin is standard; English is limited outside hotels and major attractions
- Religion & culture: Mix of Han Chinese traditions, Buddhism, Taoism, and a historic Muslim community around the Muslim Quarter
2. Why Visit Xian: Terracotta Warriors & Ancient Capital Heritage
For many visitors, Xian China is synonymous with the Terracotta Warriors, widely called the “Eighth Wonder of the World”.[4] But as a former ancient capital for over a thousand years, Xian offers much more: intact city defenses, pagodas linked to Buddhist history, and lively markets that echo its Silk Road past.[3][5]
2.1 Terracotta Warriors: Why They Matter
The Terracotta Warriors and Horses form part of the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang, China’s first emperor. Over 8,000 life‑size soldiers and horses, each with unique facial features, were buried to guard his tomb.[4][5] Excavation continues today, and only a portion is open to the public.
For Singapore travelers used to modern attractions, the Terracotta Army is a rare chance to see large‑scale archaeology in progress and understand how unified China emerged from the Warring States period.
2.2 Xian City Wall: Old Defenses, Modern Views
The Xian city wall is the largest and best‑preserved ancient city wall in China, stretching around 13.7 km around the historic core.[3][4][5] You can walk or cycle along the top for panoramic views of old alleys within and high‑rises outside the walls.
If you are familiar with Singapore’s conserved shophouse districts around Chinatown or Kampong Glam, think of the city wall as Xian’s protective ring that kept its “historic centre” safe for centuries.
2.3 Xian on the Silk Road
Xian was the eastern starting point of the ancient Silk Road, linking China with Central Asia and Europe.[3][5] Merchants, monks, and diplomats once flowed through its markets, leaving traces in local cuisine (cumin lamb, flatbreads), religious sites, and diverse communities.
3. Best Time to Visit Xian from Singapore
Unlike Singapore’s stable tropical climate, Xian has four distinct seasons with hot summers and cold, sometimes snowy winters.[5] Picking the right month can significantly affect your comfort, especially if you plan to walk the city wall or explore outdoor sites.
Insider tip (from a Singapore perspective): If you are not used to dry cold, avoid January and February unless you enjoy winter scenery. Early April and mid‑October give you comfortable temperatures without the worst of domestic holiday crowds.
4. Getting to Xian from Singapore & Getting Around
4.1 Flights from Singapore to Xian
There were once seasonal or direct connections, but most routes currently involve a transit in another Chinese hub such as Chengdu, Guangzhou, or Beijing. Flight schedules change frequently; always check with airlines and the Singapore Changi Airport website before booking.
From Singapore, total travel time including transit is typically 6–9 hours depending on connection times.
4.2 Arrival in Xian: Airports & High‑Speed Rail
- Xian Xianyang International Airport (XIY): The main gateway for international and domestic flights, about 40 km from the city centre.
- Airport to city: Airport shuttle buses, metro Line 14 + Line 2, or taxis / ride‑hailing apps are available. Metro is the most transparent for first‑timers.
- High‑speed rail: Xian North Railway Station connects to Beijing, Chengdu, Chongqing and more via China’s bullet train network.[3][4][5]
4.3 Getting Around Xian Safely
Xian’s public transport is extensive and generally safe, similar to Singapore’s MRT and bus network in terms of reliability and predictability, though less English‑friendly.
- Metro: Multiple lines cover the city, including stops near the city wall, Bell Tower, and key districts.
- Buses: Inexpensive but signage is mostly in Chinese.
- Taxis & ride‑hailing: Metered taxis are common; ride‑hailing apps like Didi can be convenient if you have mobile data and some Chinese language support.
- Walking & cycling: Within the city wall, distances are walkable; cycling on the wall is a highlight experience.[3][4]
5. Currency, Payments & Connectivity Tips
Xian China is highly digital for payments, but foreign visitors used to Singapore’s PayNow/GrabPay ecosystem need to prepare differently.
5.1 Currency & Exchange
The local currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). ATMs are widely available in the city, and airport exchange counters are straightforward but may offer less favourable rates. Many Singapore travelers now prefer:
- Multi‑currency cards (e.g. Wise, YouTrip) loaded with CNY or SGD
- Exchanging a small amount of cash in Singapore first, then more in Xian if needed
Homejourney supports major Asian currencies, including CNY, for property research and financial planning comparisons, helping you compare Xian travel costs with Singapore real estate budgets when you explore listings via Property Search and financing tools via Bank Rates .
5.2 Digital Payments
Mainland China heavily uses Alipay and WeChat Pay, which now support some foreign cards. However, smaller stalls in Xian’s markets may still take cash only. Always carry a mix of digital options and physical cash.
5.3 Mobile Data & Connectivity
- eSIM or physical SIM: Buy an eSIM before departure or a SIM card at Xian airport.
- VPN: Many Western apps and sites are restricted. If you rely on Google Maps, Gmail, or WhatsApp calls, consider setting up a VPN in advance, respecting local regulations.
- Offline maps: Download maps and translation packs before your trip.
6. Top Attractions & Experiences in Xian China
Here are the key highlights most first‑time visitors from Singapore should prioritise, especially with 3–5 days in Xian.[1][3][4][5]
6.1 Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum
Located about 40 km east of Xian city, the Terracotta Warriors site consists of several pits displaying excavated soldiers, horses, and chariots, plus a museum and the still‑buried mausoleum.[4][5]
- Opening hours: Typically around 8:30–17:00 (check latest official timings before visiting).
- Suggested visit time: 3–4 hours including transport.
- Getting there: Tourist buses from Xian railway stations, public bus 306, or private tours.
Insider tips:
- Arrive as close to opening time as possible to avoid large domestic tour groups.
- Start from Pit 3 (the command centre) and Pit 2, then end at Pit 1 (the largest and most crowded) for the best narrative flow.[4]
- Official guides or audio guides provide context that is not always clearly signposted in English.
- Avoid overpriced souvenir shops near the exits; similar souvenirs are cheaper in the city.
6.2 Xian Ancient City Wall
The Ancient City Wall is a rectangular fortification encircling old Xian, with ramparts, watchtowers and gates. You can access it from multiple gates, including the popular South Gate (Yongning).[3][4][5]
- Activities: Walking, cycling (rental bikes widely available on the wall), photography.
- Length: About 13.7 km. A full cycle loop takes 1.5–2 hours at a leisurely pace.[3]
- Best time: Late afternoon to sunset for comfortable temperatures and golden light.
Safety note: The surface is generally flat but can be bumpy; wear covered shoes. Families with younger children should supervise them near edges.
6.3 Muslim Quarter & Street Food Lanes
Just northwest of the Bell Tower lies the Muslim Quarter (Beiyuanmen), a vibrant area of halal food stalls, souvenir shops, and historic mosques.[2][4] It reflects Xian’s role as a Silk Road crossroads and offers some of the city’s best snacks.
- Must‑try foods: Roujiamo (Chinese burger), yangrou paomo (crumbled bread in mutton soup), biangbiang noodles.
- Time needed: 1.5–3 hours for strolling and eating.
- Best time: Late afternoon to evening when stalls are fully open and atmosphere is lively.
Insider tip: The main street can feel over‑commercialised. Explore side alleys for more local‑feeling eateries and better prices, similar to venturing beyond the main stretches of Singapore’s Chinatown Food Street.
