Beyond Xi'an
Discover breathtaking landscapes, ancient temples, and cultural wonders just a day trip away
Discover breathtaking landscapes, ancient temples, and cultural wonders just a day trip away
While Xi'an itself is filled with incredible attractions, some of China's most spectacular sights lie just beyond the city limits. From sacred mountains to ancient Buddhist temples, these nearby destinations offer unforgettable experiences that complement your Xi'an adventure.
Dramatic mountain landscapes and breathtaking scenery perfect for outdoor enthusiasts
Ancient temples and religious monuments showcasing China's spiritual heritage
Archaeological sites and imperial tombs that expand on Xi'an's rich historical narrative
Most attractions featured here can be visited as day trips from Xi'an, though some of the further destinations might be more enjoyable with an overnight stay. We've included transportation options, suggested visit durations, and the best seasons to help you plan your perfect excursion.
Discover the geographical relationship between Xi'an and nearby attractions
Explore these remarkable destinations within easy reach of Xi'an
Known for its precipitous cliffs and narrow pathways, Mount Huashan is famous for being one of the most dangerous yet breathtaking hiking experiences in China. The mountain features five main peaks, with the highest reaching 2,154 meters. Visitors can take a cable car part way up, then hike to various peaks for stunning views.
Full day (12+ hours) or overnight
April-May, September-October
180 CNY (plus cable car fees)
Take a high-speed train from Xi'an North Railway Station to Huashan North Station (30-40 minutes). Then take a shuttle bus to the mountain entrance (15 minutes).
Tourist buses depart from Xi'an Railway Station East Square to Huashan. The journey takes about 2 hours.
Many travel agencies in Xi'an offer day tours to Mount Huashan, which include transportation and guide service.
Take early morning train or bus to Huashan
Purchase tickets and take shuttle to cable car station
Begin hiking from North Peak (alternatively, hike up from the base)
Visit East, South, West and Central peaks, stopping for lunch
Take cable car down or hike down depending on energy and time
Take train or bus back to the city
Famen Temple is one of China's most important Buddhist temples, famous for housing the finger bone relic of the Buddha. The temple complex includes the ancient underground palace where the relic was discovered, a modern pagoda, and several exhibition halls displaying Tang Dynasty treasures found during excavations.
Half day (4-5 hours)
March-May, September-November
120 CNY
Take a tourist bus from Xi'an Railway Station to Famen Temple. Buses depart several times daily and the journey takes about 1.5-2 hours.
Many travel agencies in Xi'an offer day tours to Famen Temple, often combined with other nearby attractions.
Take morning bus to Famen Temple
Purchase tickets and enter the complex
Explore the exhibits of Tang Dynasty treasures
Visit the site where the Buddha's finger bone relic was discovered
Enjoy vegetarian cuisine at the temple restaurant
Visit the modern 148-meter tall pagoda
Take bus back to the city
While most visitors focus solely on the Terracotta Warriors, the actual tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang remains unexcavated. The mausoleum complex includes Lishan Garden, the emperor's burial mound, and several museum exhibitions. This site offers a deeper understanding of the first emperor's legacy beyond the famous warriors.
2-3 hours (combine with Terracotta Warriors)
March-May, September-November
90 CNY (separate from Terracotta Warriors)
Take Tourist Bus Line 5 (306) from Xi'an Railway Station East Square to the Terracotta Warriors, then take a shuttle or taxi to the Mausoleum (about 2km away).
A taxi from Xi'an to the Mausoleum costs around 150-200 CNY one way. Consider arranging for the driver to wait or getting their contact for the return trip.
Many Terracotta Warriors tours include a visit to the Mausoleum as part of the package.
Worth the extra time: spectacular destinations for overnight trips
Luoyang, one of China's ancient capitals, is home to the UNESCO-listed Longmen Grottoes with thousands of Buddhist statues carved into limestone cliffs. The trip also includes the famous White Horse Temple, China's first Buddhist temple.
Yan'an served as the headquarters of the Chinese Communist Party from 1935 to 1948. Visit the Yangjialing Revolutionary Site, Baota Mountain, and the cave dwellings where Mao Zedong and other leaders lived and worked.
Resources to help you plan the perfect day trip from Xi'an
Approximate travel times and distances from Xi'an city center to popular destinations.
Options for getting to and from popular day trip destinations.
What to bring for a comfortable and enjoyable day trip.