Where is Terracotta Army Located? Xi’an China
The Terracotta Army is located in 40 km (25 miles) northeast of downtown Xi’an, China. This area was the capital of the Qin Dynasty from 221 to 207 BC. It takes roughly one hour to drive from Xi’an to Terracotta Army.
From downtown Xi’an, you can reach the site using various transportation options.
You can take metro line 1, line 9, or Lintong Bus 602. Alternatively, you can choose tourism bus 5 (306) or a taxi. Joining a guided tour in Xi’an is also a hassle-free option.
How Far from Major sites in Xi’an to Terracotta Warriors?
From Xi’an City Wall: 40 km (25 miles), 60 minutes
From Bell Tower/Drum Tower/Muslim Quarter: 42 km (26 miles), 65 minutes
From Giant Wild Goose Pagoda: 45 km (28 miles), 70 minutes
From Xi’an Xianyang International Airport: 65 km (40 miles), 70 minutes (via airport expressway)
From Xi’an Railway Station: 37 km (23 miles), 55 minutes
From Xi’an North Railway Station: 42 km (26 miles), 65 minutes
Many international flights now arrive in Xi’an from various countries. If you visit other cities like Beijing or Shanghai first, you can easily take a connecting flight or train to Xi’an.
Where is Terracotta Warriors in Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum?
The Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum has two main parts: Terracotta Warriors Exhibitions and Lishan Garden. Lishan Garden features the burial mound of Qin Shi Huang and some accessory pits with terracotta figures of officials and acrobats. The Terracotta Warriors is located on the east side of the Mausoleum, about 1.5 km (1 mile) from Lishan Garden. A free shuttle bus connects the two sites. Although Lishan Garden is often overlooked, it is worth visiting if time permits.
Why did Qin Shi Huang Select This Location for His Mausoleum?
Qin Shi Huang’s mausoleum lies at the southern foot of Mount Li and near the Weihe River. This location follows traditional Chinese Feng Shui principles for burial sites. An ideal site should be sheltered by a mountain and close to a river.
Additionally, historical records indicate that Lantian County to the south had abundant jade, while Tongguan County to the north had gold mines. As a believer in auspicious signs, Qin Shi Huang chose this area for his mausoleum, hoping to be surrounded by jade and gold in the afterlife.
Where Can I see Terracotta Warriors?
You must go to Xi’an to see Terracotta Warriors in the museum. The exhibitions are divided into three sections – Pit 1, Pit 2, and Pit 3 with Terracotta warriors arrayed. The museum is located about 40 km from downtown Xi’an. Pit 1 contains the most warriors, including infantry and cavalry. Pit 2 mainly exhibits cavalry and archers, while Pit 3 is the headoffice of the whole army and it has fewer figures.
If you prefer not to travel far, some Terracotta Warriors are displayed at the Shaanxi History Museum in downtown Xi’an.
Since the 1980s, many overseas exhibitions of the Terracotta Army have taken place in countries like the USA and UK. Keep an eye on local news; you might see them near you one day.