Terracotta Army: facts and how to visit
Eight thousand warriors with unique faces, discovered in 1974 and still being excavated. Here’s how the pits differ, what to look for, and how to plan your trip.
1974
Farmers found fragments while digging a well near Lintong.
≈8,000
Plus horses and chariots—each warrior has distinct features.
~40 km
From Xi’an city centre; 60–90 minutes by road.
¥120–150
Seasonal pricing; pre-book during Golden Week and summer.
What you’ll see inside the museum
The site spans multiple pits and galleries. Start with Pit 1 (the classic ranks), then study specialised units in Pits 2 and 3, and finish with artefacts and restoration labs.
Pit 1
Largest hangar with infantry formations in long corridors; dramatic first look.
Pit 2
Mixed arms (archers, cavalry); showcases tactical diversity and equipment.
Pit 3
Smaller command post—officers and ceremonial units; deeper interpretation.
Galleries & labs
Bronzes, weapons, pigments, and restoration displays showing ongoing archaeology.
How to visit: logistics & tips
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Transport | Tour buses from central Xi’an, taxi/rideshare, or organised day tours. Allow 60–90 minutes each way depending on traffic. |
| Timing | Weekday mornings are best. Avoid Oct 1–7 and summer holidays unless pre-booked. |
| Duration | 2–3 hours on-site; add time for lunch and return transport. |
| Tickets | Purchase online via official platforms or major OTAs. Bring passport; some gates require real-name verification. |
| Photography | Allowed in most halls; flash discouraged. Tripods may need permission. |
Locate the Terracotta Army
Click the marker for quick facts and links to our Xi’an guide.
Legend
- Museum & excavation pits
Frequently asked questions
Are all figures unique?
Yes—heads and facial features vary widely, reflecting mould-and-carve techniques and mass production with individual finishing.
Are the bright colours original?
Originally painted, but pigments flake when exposed to air. Ongoing conservation occasionally reveals vivid colours in newly unearthed pieces.
Can I visit the actual tomb?
No. The burial mound is sealed and not open to visitors. The museum and pits are separate from the central tomb.
Build your Xi’an itinerary
Combine the warriors with ancient city walls, pagodas, and museum halls.
- Xi’an city playbook — routes, tickets, dining.
- First Emperor facts — context for the mausoleum complex.
- Imperial palaces guide — compare court life in later dynasties.