Things To Do
in Jixian
Jixian is a historic county-level region in Shaanxi Province, located just east of Xi'an, blending ancient architecture with modern development. Its landscape spans river plains, terraced farmland, and the foothills of the Qinling Mountains. The town is known for traditional crafts, hospitable locals, and a slower pace away from bigger tourist hubs.
Visitors can explore old streets, temples, and markets, tasting bold Shaanxi flavors along the way.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Jixian and settle into your accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Chinese tea and dumplings. Take some time to rest and adjust to your surroundings before starting your adventure.
Begin your exploration with a visit to the Tianjin Yongle Palace, a stunning example of ancient architecture. Spend time wandering through the tranquil gardens and observing the intricate carvings and decorations. Capture beautiful photos that will serve as lasting memories of your journey.
Head to a nearby restaurant to indulge in a delicious dinner featuring regional specialties. Engage with friendly locals, learning more about their culture and traditions. As the sun sets, take a peaceful stroll along the riverside, appreciating the charming ambiance of the evening.
Take a short drive to Gubei Water Town, a captivating area reminiscent of ancient China. Stroll through the picturesque streets adorned with traditional architecture and quaint shops. Enjoy breakfast at a local eatery, where you can sample homemade noodles.
Spend the day discovering the town's scenic spots, including the stunning Simatai Great Wall. Hike along the wall for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Engage in some photography to capture the beauty of this unique location.
As evening falls, participate in a guided lantern-making workshop, learning this fascinating artform from skilled artisans. Enjoy a dinner featuring local dishes before watching the water town come alive with colorful lights reflecting off the canals. Conclude your day with a leisurely evening walk, soaking in the enchanting atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚶Local transportation (bus/taxi per ride) | $1-3 |
| 🎟️Entrance fees to attractions | $5-15 |
| 💧Bottled water (600-1000 ml) | $0.50-1 |
| 🧥Lightweight jacket | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and cultural sites
- Delicious, bold Shaanxi cuisine
- Rural scenery and convenient access to nature
- Less crowded than Xi'an proper, offering a relaxed pace
- Limited nightlife and English-speaking services in rural areas
- Transport options can require planning to reach remote spots
- Smaller-scale tourist infrastructure than major cities
- "你好" - Hello
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "多少钱？" - How much is it?
- "请给我菜单" - Please give me the menu
- "厕所在哪里？" - Where is the bathroom?
- "可以刷卡吗？" - Can I pay by card?
- "我吃素" - I am vegetarian
- "帮忙" - Help
Places to Visit in Jixian
Visit one of these nice places.
An ancient stone gate framed by carved eaves, ideal for sunrise and golden hour shots.
Sweeping views of forested mountains and valleys, perfect for panoramic landscape photography.
Colorful street scenes and reflections along the river as evening lights come on.
Sun-dappled courtyards with red lanterns and carved wooden beams for atmospheric portraits.
Food in Jixian
Jixian Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Large, thick noodles tossed in a spicy, garlicky sauce with chilies and vinegar.
Must-Try!
Pillowy flatbread stuffed with slow-cooked pork or beef and herbs.
Crumbled flatbread in a rich lamb broth with chopped herbs.
Chilled rice flour or wheat gluten noodles tossed with sesame oil, garlic and chili.
Spicy peppery soup with vegetables and meat stock.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling daytime market offering street noodles, kebabs, dumplings and local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, speak softly, and avoid pointing your feet at sacred objects; ask before taking photos of people.
Greet with a polite 'Ni hao' and join lines patiently; use two hands when passing items to elders.
Safety
Tipping in Jixian
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not typically expected in most ordinary services; in tourist-heavy spots small tips may be appreciated, but not required.
Cash is widely accepted; mobile payments via WeChat Pay and Alipay are ubiquitous; many places also take credit/debit cards in larger towns and hotels.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming fruit trees; light jacket recommended and occasional showers.
Warm to hot and humid; carry water, wear hats, and seek shade during peak sun hours.
Crisp air and clear skies; great for outdoor exploration and photography.
Cold with occasional snow; dress in layers and be prepared for shorter daylight hours.
Jixian at Night
Hiking in Jixian
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible day hikes with forest scenery and wildlife-watching opportunities.
Scenic trail along a valley with viewpoints over farmland and villages.
Airports
How to reach Jixian by plane.
Primary international and domestic hub serving Xi'an; connected to major Chinese cities and a few international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Han Chinese; small communities of Hui and other groups exist in the broader Shaanxi region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular casual sport and community activity across Shaanxi.
Common in schools, parks, and community centers.
Played in gyms and outdoor courts throughout the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Jixian.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Shaanxi dishes are meat-focused; look for veggie versions of biangbiang noodles, daikon, tofu dishes and vegetable dumplings; ask for no meat broth.