Xi'an, the Hub of Transport Network in Old and Modern China

Xi’an, one of the oldest cities in China, is not a stranger to developments in transportation. In ancient times, this city served as the starting point of the Silk Road that went all the way from Asia to Europe. Strategically located in central-northwestern part of China, modes of modern transportations are established that provide convenience in getting around the country, even outside its borders. Similarly, the metro provides lots of transport options in exploring any of its magnificent attractions. Come and let us experience transport, the Xi’an way!

Metro Lines

• Reliability: ★★★★★
• Convenience: ★★★★
• Comfort: ★★★
• Cost: ★★★★

Xi’an has 8 operating metro lines. Line 1 travels from Houweizhai in the west to Fangzhicheng in the east. Line 2 runs from Beikezhan (North Railway Station) and Huizhanzhongxin (Conference & Exhibition Center). This north-south line 2 is the first rail transport ever established in China and where you can alight to see Bell Tower and the City Wall. Line 3 flows from southwest (Yuhuazhai station) to north east (Baoshuiqu station). This line passes through famous spots such as Big Wild Goose Pagoda and Qinglong Temple.

Ticket prices range from CNY 2 for the first 6 kilometers to CNY 6 for maximum of 26 kilometers. Discounts are available by purchasing metro passes or public transportation cards. Subway train interval is around 4 minutes waiting time and operation hours start from 6 AM to 11 PM. The best thing about their subway lines is train signs are both written in English and Chinese. So you need not to worry of getting lost or awkwardly interviewing locals for directions. Just make sure to always bring a subway map with you. Another thing is, when you purchase their exclusive passes (One-day and Three-day), you are not required to return the cards after use so you could keep it as souvenirs!

City Bus

• Reliability: ★★★★★
• Convenience: ★★★
• Comfort: ★★★
• Cost: ★★★★★

One of the major means of daily transportation in Xi’an and home to more than 5,000 buses, this transport network provides hassle-free commuter system. Regularly, they operate as early as 6 am to 11 pm. They have designated buses for tour purposes. The Tourist bus takes passengers to suburbs and covers destinations such as Terracotta Army Museum to urban areas in just one day. They also have the Urban Sightseeing Bus that conveniently runs along the city’s main attractions including the City Wall, Bell Tower, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and Shaanxi History Musuem. If you want to experience the local commute lifestyle, you can hop on and off in any regular city buses given you have to master bus routes. Unlike subways, only few buses report stations in both Chinese and English. It is recommended to remember the Chinese names of signs and stations. However, bus transports are way cheaper than trains. Fares of self-serviced buses range from CNY 1 to CNY 2 while those with conductors charged CNY 0.5 for the first four stops and another CNY 0.5 for every additional four stops. Don’t forget to always bring loose change with you prior to boarding.

Taxi

• Reliability: ★★★
• Convenience: ★★★★★
• Comfort: ★★★★★
• Cost: ★★

Taxis in Xi’an are easy to spot on thanks to its vibrant color of green. They come in different company brands like BYD, Jetta, Santana, Red Flag, and Passat. You can hail a taxi almost anywhere though it might be a challenge to get one during rush hours (7 AM – 8 AM and 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM). Most taxi drivers don’t speak and read English so it is better for you to write down your destination. Flagdown rate starts at CNY 8.5 for the first 3 kilometers and CNY 2 for every extra kilometer. Here are the following sample rates from downtown to some famous sites:

1. Xianyang International Airport - CNY 50 to CNY 60
2. Terracotta Warriors and Horse Museum - around CNY150
3. Mt. Huashan - CNY400 to 500
4. Famen Temple - CNY400 to 500

Be careful since some drivers might overcharge your trip, so always ask to ride via meter. Caution in hailing taxis in busy areas like Xian Railway Station, Xiaozhai Commercial Area, Bell & Drum Tower and the Long-distance Bus Stations. Don’t worry, generally, all their taxis are clean and safe to ride with!

Bicycle

• Reliability: ★★★★★
• Convenience: ★★★★★
• Comfort: ★★★
• Cost: ★★★★★

You can tour the city by breezing through a bicycle, a healthier alternative to exploring Xi’an! Burn those calories from feasting all those delicious Chinese cuisine and rent a bike in almost all corners of districts. Rental fee for the first hour is free then charge will start at CNY 1 for every 1-2 hours. Age requirement is between 16 year old – 70 years old and you have to get a Public Transportation Card. If you are visiting the City Wall, riding a bike is perfect for discovering the ancient structure. Also, it is the best way to enjoy and immerse yourself to the rich culture of Chinese people. Always remember to keep biking on the right!

Conclusion

There are many ways to get to and from in Xi’an. You just have to know where you want to go first. All transportations cover all major attractions. If you prefer to travel via public transportations, it is advisable to purchase their public transportation card which costs CNY 18 only. This card offers 50% discount on each bus trip and 10% for metro subway. Just like any big and bustling city, Xi’an’s public transport is challenging during rush hours and holidays so it is best to plan your schedule ahead. There is variety of transport modes to choose from as detailed above; your choice depends on your preference, comfort, experience, and time.

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