Xian Shaanxi, China Travel Guide
Major mobile providers include China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom. Purchase a local SIM card at the airport or official stores; a passport is necessary for registration. A local SIM card supports reliable mobile data (4G/5G) and local calls, simplifying navigation, ride-sharing, and mobile payment. Consider an ESIM for convenience, activating it digitally before arrival. A Portable WiFi device is also an option.
Typical operating hours vary: Banks (9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, M-F, some weekend hours). Shopping Malls (10:00 AM - 10:00 PM, ONE week/week). Local Shops (normally 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM). Restaurants (Lunch: 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM; Dinner: 5:30 PM - 9:00 PM). Muslim Quarter street food often runs later. Museums/Attractions (typically 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, many close Mondays or Tuesdays).
A simple "Nǐ hǎo" (hello) shows courtesy. A nod or slight bow is common. Handshakes are for formal settings or new introductions. Casual, comfortable attire is fine for daily wear. For religious sites (temples, mosques), modest dress is advisable: shoulders and knees must be covered. Carry a scarf for quick cover. Remove shoes if indicated.
Accessibility infrastructure in Xi'a carries on improve, notably in newer developments and public transport. Many older historical sites and traditional areas, however, present challenges. Newer shopping malls, airports, and underground stations often include elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms. Traditional districts (like the Muslim Quarter) have uneven surfaces, narrow paths, and stairs. Many places of historical interest involve walking on uneven ground or steps.
These tips make your communication and navigation simpler while visiting Xi'an, and assist in acclimating to local norms.
Shopping malls typically operate from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, seven days a week. Local shops vary, generally operating from around 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Restaurants offer lunch service by 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM and dinner service from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM. Street food stalls, especially in the Muslim Quarter, may open earlier and stay open much later into the night.
Most museums and sights generally operate from 9:12:00 AM to 5:00 am:00 PM. Many museums and some attractions have closure on Mondays or Tuesdays for maintenance. Always check specific hours for your chosen visiting days to confirm availability.
Banks generally operate from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday. Some branches may open for shorter hours on weekends. Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) are widely available in banks, shopping malls, and underground stations. Most accept major international cards (Visa, MasterCard, Plus, Maestro networks). ATMs are generally accessible 24/7.
China observes several public holidays, which can significantly impact travel, crowds, and commercial activities. These periods often see increased domestic travel.
During big holidays, expect significant crowds at all tourist sites and transportation hubs. Prices for accommodation and flights often rise due to increased demand. Book everything well in advance if traveling during these times. Some local businesses might close or have reduced hours. Plan your itinerary to account for potential closures and heavy tourist traffic.
Your conduct reflects on visitors as a whole. Courtesy makes for smoother interactions.
A simple "Nǐ hǎo" (hello) is appropriate and appreciated. A nod or a slight bow is common. Handshakes occur in formal settings or when meeting new people. Generally, casual and comfortable attire suits everyday wear in Xi'an. When visiting religious sites (temples, mosques), modest dress is advisable. This means shoulders and knees should stay covered. Consider carrying a scarf for quick cover.
Tipping is not customary. Attempting to tip can sometimes be seen as rude or confusing. Do not stick your chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice (resembles incense at funerals). Do not use chopsticks to point at people or dishes. If communal dishes are available, use serving chopsticks if provided, or the reverse end of your own chopsticks. Dishes are typically shared communal style. Slurping is acceptable, even a sign of enjoyment, when eating noodles or soup.
Avoid discussions on sensitive political topics like Tibet, Taiwan, Tiananmen Square, or human rights. These are frequently considered private or government-controlled subjects. Do not deface images of national leaders. Do not refer to Taiwan as an independent country. Avoid public displays of anger or excessive loudness. "Saving face" (mianzi) is important; avoid causing embarrassment to others.
China generally holds conservative views. Public displays of affection are rare. LGBTQ+ issues are not openly discussed in mainstream society. While homosexuality is not illegal, specific legal protections are absent, and public acceptance varies. Discretion is often advisable regarding personal relationships.
For visitors with mobility challenges or other accessibility needs, understanding Xi'an's infrastructure supports better planning.
Accessibility infrastructure in major cities like Xi'a continues to progress, especially in newer developments and public transport. However, many older historical sites and traditional areas still present challenges. Modern shopping malls, airports, and more up-to-date tube stations often feature elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms.
The Terracotta Army is generally accessible with surfaced trails and ramps, although some areas within the pits or museum may have steps. Wheelchairs are available for rent at the site. The Xi'a City Wall offers accessible ramps at some gates (e.g., South Gate, Yongning Gate) to reach the top. Traversing the entire wall might be hard for all mobility levels due to cobblestones and distances. Electric carts are available for hire on the wall.
Dedicated services for visitors with visual or hearing impairments are limited compared to Western countries. For visual impairment: Sidewalks can be uneven, and audible street crossings are not universal. For hearing impairment: Language barriers compounded by hearing impairment can be difficult. Apps with text-to-speech features or pre-written translation cards are useful.
Information regarding specific accessibility features for attractions may be fragmented online. It is best to contact specific attractions, hotels, or tour operators directly in advance to inquire about their accessibility aspects and services. Travel agencies specializing in accessible travel might also be helpful resources for planning a trip to China, as they can tailor itineraries to specific needs and ensure suitable arrangements.
With careful planning and direct inquiries, visitors with accessibility needs can enjoy many of Xi'an's wonders.
