Xianyang Shaanxi, China Travel Guide
China has three main mobile network providers: China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom. All offer good coverage in Xianyang and throughout urban China. Purchase a local SIM card upon arrival at Xi'a Xianyang International Airport or at official stores in Xianyang. You are required to present your passport for registration. Data packages are generally affordable.
Internet access and Wi-Fi are widely available in Xianyang. Most hotels offer free Wi-Fi for guests. Many cafes, restaurants, and shopping malls provide free Wi-Fi (may require Chinese phone number or QR code for registration).
China Post offices are available throughout Xianyang. You can send postcards, letters, and parcels internationally. They offer various shipping options. Staff may have limited English proficiency, so a translation app can be helpful.
Mandarin Chinese is the official language. While tourist hubs in larger cities might have some English speakers, English proficiency is generally low in Xianyang, especially outside of international hotels.
Ensure your VPN is installed and configured Before arriving within China to access international online services. A local SIM or eSIM will provide mobile data.
Understand typical operating hours and holiday impacts on services in Xianyang.
Shops: Most retail shops open 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM and close 9:00 PM - 10:00 PM.
Restaurants: Breakfast 6:30 AM - 9:00 AM, Lunch 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Dinner 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM. Street food often stays open late.
Government Offices: Typically 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday-Friday (with lunch break). Closed weekends and public holidays.
Attractions/Museums: Generally 8:00 AM or 9:12:00 AM to 5:00 am:00 PM or 6:00 PM. Many museums close on Mondays. Check individual opening hours.
Banks: Most main financial institutions (e.g., Bank of China, ICBC) operate 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday-Friday. Some branches in busy areas might open on weekends.
ATMs: Widely available 24/7. Accept most international debit/credit cards (Visa, Mastercard). Look for ATMs attached to major banks.
China observes several bank holidays where many businesses and government offices close, and travel becomes very busy.
Beyond major holidays, other festivals and depending on the time of year changes can affect schedules.
During national holidays, expect increased crowds, higher prices, and potential closures. Book transportation and accommodation well in advance. For airport lounge access, consider Priority Pass. For flight compensation, check Compensair.
A simple nod or slight bow is a common greeting. Handshakes are common, especially in business contexts. Address elders with appropriate titles. "Nǐ chīfàn le ma?" (Have you eaten?) is a friendly greeting, not an invitation to eat.
Tipping is generally not expected or customary in China. Do not feel obliged to tip someone in restaurants, taxis, or hotels. Be prepared for lively dining environments; slurping noodles is acceptable. Dishes are typically ordered for the table and shared communally.
Awareness of certain cultural taboos helps avoid misunderstandings and shows respect.
Gift-giving and certain numbers carry cultural significance.
Avoid sensitive political debates and be mindful of photography ethics.
Accessibility infrastructure for travelers with mobility challenges is improving, but it can still present difficulties in some locations of Xianyang.
Newer buildings, major places of interest, and modern infrastructure (like high-speed rail stations) often incorporate ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Older parts of the city, traditional buildings, and much of the public transportation system (especially buses) can be challenging. Sidewalks may be uneven, and obstacles are common.
High-speed trains and terminals are generally accessible, with ramps and dedicated spaces. Taxis and ride-sharing services (Didi) offer more flexibility for door-to-door transportation compared to public buses, which may not be accessible. Most public buses are not fully accessible, often requiring steps to board.
Dedicated English-language resources or organizations specifically providing comprehensive accessibility information for Xianyang are scarce.
For specific mobility needs, hiring a private car with a driver offers the most control and comfort for reaching various attractions.
If you have specific mobility needs, hiring a private car with a driver offers the most control and comfort for reaching attractions. Research specific sites and transport options in advance.
