Sources and freshness
Static planning guidance on this page is reviewed by the China Train Tickets editorial team. Train times, fares, seat classes, and availability can change, so the live result for your selected travel date is authoritative.
- Primary operational reference
- China Railway 12306 (live results may change when railway operations change)
- Page reviewed
City Overview
Xi'an, anciently known as "Chang'an," is the capital of Shaanxi Province and the city that served as capital for more dynasties than any other in Chinese history. From the Western Zhou to the Tang Dynasty, thirteen dynasties established their capital here, leaving an extraordinarily rich cultural heritage. Xi'an is the eastern starting point of the Silk Road, the ancient trade route that connected Eastern and Western civilizations across the Eurasian continent. Modern Xi'an is a major center in northwest China with strong capabilities in science and education.
Railway Transport
Xi'an North is a major HSR hub for northwest China, connecting corridors toward Chengdu, Zhengzhou, Taiyuan, and other regions; Xi'an Station also handles conventional and selected higher-speed services. The departure station, stops, and journey time can differ by train even for the same city pair. Choose the actual travel date on China Railway 12306 and confirm the full station name printed on the ticket.
Must-See Attractions
The Terracotta Warriors, hailed as the "Eighth Wonder of the World," feature thousands of life-sized clay soldiers and horses excavated from three pits — stunning in scale and craftsmanship. The Xi'an City Wall is the best-preserved ancient city fortification in China, spanning about 13.7 kilometers and perfect for a cycling or walking loop. The Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, built during the Tang Dynasty, was constructed by the monk Xuanzang to store Buddhist scriptures. Huaqing Palace hot springs and the Tang Paradise are also popular attractions.
Food Highlights
Xi'an is a paradise for noodle and bread lovers. Roujiamo (Chinese hamburger) features slow-braised meat stuffed into a crispy flatbread. Liangpi (cold noodles) are silky and chewy, dressed with chili oil and vinegar — a refreshing summer treat. Yangrou Paomo (crumbled bread in lamb soup) is Xi'an's most iconic dish: diners break flatbread into small pieces before it's soaked in rich lamb broth and served with pickled garlic and chili paste. The Muslim Quarter is the ultimate street food destination, brimming with osmanthus cake, date cake, and plum juice.