Tips for Traveling in Xi'an

Xi'an has a much drier climate than southern China. Remember to drink plenty of water and keep your skin moisturized during your trip. Spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit.

Summers here are extremely hot with intense midday sunshine and occasional rainstorms. Avoid staying in open, unshaded areas such as the Xi'an City Wall during daytime. Instead, you may travel to scenic spots on the city outskirts, where thick foliage provides shade and the temperature is cooler.

Local foods including northwest-style noodles, crumbled bread in soup, beef and mutton can be heavy on the stomach for those who rarely eat them. Enjoy the delicacies in moderation and do not overeat.

When dining at Muslim Quarter streets or other halal restaurants, please respect local customs and religious beliefs. Alcohol is prohibited in almost all Muslim eateries. In addition, Muslim people neither eat nor sell blood-based food.

During peak tourist seasons, keep a close eye on your belongings at railway stations and crowded scenic sites.

Beware of fraud when buying handicrafts and souvenirs. Do not trust vendors who claim to sell "cultural relics" unearthed from their own land. Such statements are totally unreliable, even though Shaanxi is rich in historical artifacts.