The Xi’an Museum (西安博物院), officially opened to the public on May 18, 2007, is a comprehensive museum spanning approximately 160,000 square meters in total area. It is a remarkable institution that combines artifact collections, scientific research, public education, and leisurely gardens in one location. This museum is situated in Xi’an, Shaanxi Province, a city steeped in history and cultural significance, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in China’s rich heritage.
The Xi’an Museum is comprised of three main sections: the museum itself, the Tang Jianfu Temple Ruins, and the Small Wild Goose Pagoda. Together, these sections provide visitors with a deep and immersive experience into the history and culture of the region.
One of the standout features of the Xi’an Museum is its extensive collection of artifacts. With a staggering 111,928 pieces or sets, of which 11,029 are classified as precious, this museum houses a wealth of historical treasures. Among these treasures, the “Tang Dynasty Tricolored Horse,” a symbol of the Tang era’s free-spirited society, stands out. This horse statue is depicted without a saddle or reins, reflecting the unbridled spirit of the Tang Dynasty. Another notable artifact is the “Tang Dynasty Tricolored Lotus-Leaf Base,” which carries distinct Buddhist symbolism with its lotus petal pattern on the base, designed to match a pagoda-shaped jar.
For those intrigued by the ancient artifacts of the Western Han Dynasty, the “Garlic-Headed Flask” is a star attraction. This item is a representative piece of Qin culture and originated in the Guanzhong region before spreading across the nation during the Qin unification wars. However, by the mid-Western Han Dynasty, the garlic-headed flask had all but vanished.
The Xi’an Museum’s thematic exhibition, “Ancient Xi’an,” offers visitors a captivating journey through the city’s historical evolution and the changing face of ancient artifacts. This immersive experience lets you feel the pulse of history and the transitions in ancient culture.
Visitors will also find a fascinating “City Wall Model” within the museum, which provides a glimpse into the scale, layout, and living conditions of Xi’an’s city during various dynasties, from the Zhou period to the Ming and Qing eras. This model offers a unique perspective on the city’s development throughout different historical epochs.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Xi’an Museum
- Vlog about Xi’an Museum
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Other Museums in Xi’an
Basic Information
| Website | https://www.xabwy.com/ |
| Estimated Length of Tour | 2 – 3 hours |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 9.00 – 18.00; Last admission: 17.00 (15th March – 31st October) 9.00 – 17.30; Last admission: 16.30 (1st November – 14th March the next year) Closed on Tuesdays |
| Telephone Number | 0086-029-87803591 0086-029-87568966 |
Location and Transportation
The Xi’an Museum is situated in the southern part of the city, near the Small Wild Goose Pagoda. The specific address is No.72, Youyi West Road, Beilin District, Xi’an, Shaanxi Province, China. It is easily accessible by public transportation, with several bus routes and metro lines that pass by the museum.
Bus: Take bus 18, 21, 29, 32, 40, 46, 203, 204, 218, 224, 229, 258, 407, 410, 521, 618, 700, or 713, get off at Small Wild Goose Pagoda Stop (小雁塔, Xiaoyanta), and walk about 200 meters to the south to reach the museum.
Subway: Take subway line 2 or 5, get off at Nanshaomen station (南稍门) , and walk about 400 meters to the west to reach the museum.
Highlights of Xi’an Museum
Terracotta Warriors and Horses
The Terracotta Warriors and Horses exhibit is one of the most famous and impressive highlights of the Xi’an Museum. The exhibit features life-size terracotta sculptures that were created over 2,000 years ago to protect the tomb of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. Each sculpture has unique facial features and is intricately detailed, offering a fascinating glimpse into ancient Chinese art and culture.
Silk Road Exhibition
The Silk Road Exhibition at the Xi’an Museum showcases the rich history of the ancient trade route that connected China with the rest of the world. It features a vast collection of historical relics that were traded along the Silk Road, including textiles, coins, pottery, and more. Visitors can explore the fascinating history of the Silk Road and learn about the cultural exchange that took place along the route. The exhibit also highlights the role that Xi’an played as a major hub along the Silk Road, connecting China with Central Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.
Folk Culture
The Xi’an Museum’s Folk Culture exhibition offers visitors a unique insight into the traditional customs and way of life of the Shaanxi region. The exhibit features a vast collection of artifacts, including traditional costumes, musical instruments, and crafts. Visitors can learn about the region’s folk beliefs, festivals, and ceremonies, as well as the daily life of the local people. The exhibit also showcases the rich history of Shaanxi’s food and drink culture, including tea, wine, and local cuisine.
Tang Dynasty Murals
The Tang Dynasty Murals exhibition at the Xi’an Museum features a collection of stunning murals that were unearthed from tombs in the surrounding area. They were created during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD) and offer a fascinating glimpse into the art and culture of the period. The murals depict a range of subjects, including scenes of daily life, religious beliefs, and mythological stories and are renowned for their vivid colors and intricate details, showcasing the advanced artistic skills of the Tang Dynasty.
Vlog about Xi’an Museum
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Make a Reservation in Advance: While admission to the Xi’an Museum at the Small Wild Goose Pagoda is free, it’s crucial to make a reservation in advance and arrive at the designated time. Without a reservation, you won’t be able to enter the museum.
Explore the Basement Exhibits: The most significant exhibits, including national treasures, are located in the basement level. Missing the basement exhibits is like not visiting the Xi’an Museum at all, so be sure to allocate time to explore this section thoroughly.
Rent Electronic Guide Devices: Electronic guide devices are available for self-service rental at the museum. Renting one costs 30 RMB per use, with a deposit required. However, note that the devices do not come with headphones. For clear audio, you can purchase wired headphones for 10 RMB at the museum or bring your own.
