From Beijing to Xi’an: A Journey Through China’s Ancient Capitals

From Beijing to Xi’an: A Journey Through China’s Ancient Capitals

From Beijing to Xi’an: A Journey Through China’s Ancient Capitals is a classic north-to-central China route that’s easy to do by high‑speed train or a short domestic flight. This guide gives you quick answers, step‑by‑step travel tips, sample itineraries, estimated costs (SGD & RMB) and FAQs for Singapore travellers.

From Beijing to Xi’an: Key travel facts at a glance

• Fastest travel option by speed: high‑speed train (Beijing West → Xi’an North) — fastest trains take around 4–4.5 hours, most take 4.5–6 hours. ([chinatravel.com](https://www.chinatravel.com/beijing/how-to-travel-from-beijing-to-xian?utm_source=openai))
• Fastest travel option by time in the air: flight (PEK/PKX → XIY) — ~2–2.5 hours flight time; total airport time usually makes overall travel similar to the bullet train. ([flightroutes.com](https://www.flightroutes.com/PEK-XIY?utm_source=openai))
• Visa: Singapore passport holders can, in general, enter mainland China for short visits under the 30‑day mutual visa‑exemption arrangement (effective Feb 9, 2024) — always confirm before you go. ([chinadaily.com.cn](https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202401/26/WS65b2f1e9a3105f21a507e6fd.html?utm_source=openai))
• Best stations/airports: Beijing West (北京西) / Beijing Capital (PEK) or Daxing (PKX) → Xi’an North (西安北) / Xi’an Xianyang Airport (XIY). ([chinatravel.com](https://www.chinatravel.com/china-trains/beijing-xian-train?utm_source=openai))

Why choose the train (short answer)

For most travellers the high‑speed bullet train offers the best balance of speed, comfort and city‑centre convenience: board in Beijing West and arrive at Xi’an North in the city’s rail network — no long airport transfers, baggage waits or security lines. The fastest services can run slightly over 4 hours; many G‑trains fall in the 4.5–6 hour band. ([chinatravel.com](https://www.chinatravel.com/beijing/how-to-travel-from-beijing-to-xian?utm_source=openai))

Step‑by‑step: How to travel by high‑speed train from Beijing to Xi’an

1. Decide your date: book early for Chinese public holidays (CNY, National Day) — seats sell out fast.
2. Choose departure station: Beijing West is the main hub; check your ticket — Beijing has multiple stations (West, Fengtai, Qinghe). ([xiantravelguide.com](https://xiantravelguide.com/beijing-to-xian-high-speed-train-2025/?utm_source=openai))
3. Book tickets: use China Railway 12306 (may require local phone verification) or a reliable third‑party booking site/app (e.g., Trip.com). Print or save the e‑ticket and carry your passport — ID/passport required to collect and board. ([chinatravel.com](https://www.chinatravel.com/china-trains/beijing-xian-train?utm_source=openai))
4. Arrive at the station 40–60 minutes early: security & ID check, boarding gate and luggage scanning are standard.
5. Onboard: second class is roomy and economical; first class gives more space; business class is similar to airline reclining seats on some trains. Costs vary by class — see estimated fares below.
6. Arrival in Xi’an North: use subway/taxi/ride‑share to central Xi’an (city wall, Muslim Quarter) or to tours for Terracotta Warriors (approx 1 hour drive).

Flights: when they make sense

Fly if you value airtime over convenience (e.g., tight onward connection, airline miles). Flight time is ~2–2.5 hours between Beijing and Xi’an, but add airport transfer & check‑in time: total door‑to‑door can match the train. Airlines with direct services include Air China and Hainan Airlines — multiple daily flights available. ([flightroutes.com](https://www.flightroutes.com/PEK-XIY?utm_source=openai))

Top sights in Xi’an (quick list)

• Terracotta Army (must‑see; allow 3–4 hours at the museum). ([terracottawarriorsmuseum.com](https://terracottawarriorsmuseum.com/ticket-admission/?utm_source=openai))
• Xi’an City Wall — cycle or walk a section for great views.
• Muslim Quarter — food heaven for roujiamo, biangbiang noodles and local snacks.
• Big Wild Goose Pagoda and Shaanxi History Museum.

Estimated costs (budgeting for Singapore travellers)

All figures are approximate — check live prices before you book.

• High‑speed train (Beijing → Xi’an): second class ~RMB 550–650 (about S$100–S$130); first class ~RMB 900–1,000 (about S$160–S$200); business class considerably more. Actual fares vary by train and season. ([chinatravel.com](https://www.chinatravel.com/beijing/how-to-travel-from-beijing-to-xian?utm_source=openai))
• Flight (one‑way domestic): often from ~RMB 700 upward (S$130+), depending on advance purchase and promotions. ([flightroutes.com](https://www.flightroutes.com/PEK-XIY?utm_source=openai))
• Terracotta Warriors museum ticket: around RMB 120 for the main pits (prices can change; check the museum page). ([terracottawarriorsmuseum.com](https://terracottawarriorsmuseum.com/ticket-admission/?utm_source=openai))
• Local taxis / ride‑share: airport or train station to city centre ~RMB 80–150 depending on distance.
• Daily meals (mid‑range): S$15–S$40 per person depending on dining choices.

Sample itineraries (pick your pace)

3‑day relaxed route (classic highlights)

1. Day 1 (Beijing): Forbidden City, Tiananmen, evening high‑speed train (or overnight stay and early next day departure).
2. Day 2 (arrive Xi’an): City Wall, Muslim Quarter, local food tour.
3. Day 3: Terracotta Army half‑day, Shaanxi History Museum or Big Wild Goose Pagoda, evening high‑speed train back or overnight in Xi’an.

2‑day express (fast‑paced)

• Day 1: Morning bullet train (depart Beijing early), afternoon Xi’an city wall + Muslim Quarter, sleep in Xi’an.
• Day 2: Terracotta Warriors early, return flight or late train back to Beijing.

Practical travel tips for Singapore travellers

• Passport & visa: Singaporeans generally benefit from the 30‑day mutual visa‑exemption — still carry passport and proof of onward travel; confirm current rules with the Chinese Embassy or your airline before departure. ([chinadaily.com.cn](https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202401/26/WS65b2f1e9a3105f21a507e6fd.html?utm_source=openai))
• Book trains early: use Trip.com or local 12306 (12306 may ask for a Chinese phone); many foreign travellers find Trip.com or other international agents easier. ([chinatravel.com](https://www.chinatravel.com/china-trains/beijing-xian-train?utm_source=openai))
• Language: Mandarin is dominant. Download an offline phrasebook or use translation apps for menus and directions.
• Payment: WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used — many hotels & tourist merchants accept international cards, but carry some cash (RMB). Consider a currency card or exchange before you go.
• Health & safety: tap water is not drinkable in most places — buy bottled water. Travel insurance is recommended.
• Peak season: avoid Chinese New Year and Golden Week for lower crowds (or book far in advance if you must travel then).

Booking checklist — 7 steps

1. Confirm travel dates and passport validity (6+ months recommended).
2. Check visa/arrival card requirements for Singapore citizens (some arrival registration is required online). ([wise.com](https://wise.com/sg/blog/travel-to-china-from-singapore?utm_source=openai))
3. Buy train or flight tickets: aim to book trains 2–4 weeks ahead (longer in peak season). ([chinatravel.com](https://www.chinatravel.com/china-trains/beijing-xian-train?utm_source=openai))
4. Reserve Terracotta Warriors tickets if visiting on a tight schedule — allow 3–4 hours on site. ([terracottawarriorsmuseum.com](https://terracottawarriorsmuseum.com/ticket-admission/?utm_source=openai))
5. Arrange Xi’an city transfers (hotel pickup, taxi app or airport shuttle).
6. Buy travel insurance with medical cover and trip delay protection.
7. Pack adaptors, a small umbrella, and comfortable shoes for cobbled streets and the City Wall.

FAQs (long‑tail keywords included)

Q: How long is the train from Beijing to Xi’an?

A: High‑speed trains range from about 4 hours (fastest services) to roughly 6 hours; overnight sleeper trains take much longer (10–14 hours). Book the G‑class trains for the fastest trips. ([chinatravel.com](https://www.chinatravel.com/beijing/how-to-travel-from-beijing-to-xian?utm_source=openai))

Q: How long is the flight from Beijing to Xi’an?

A: Flight time is roughly 2–2.5 hours; include airport transfer and check‑in time when deciding between train and plane. ([flightroutes.com](https://www.flightroutes.com/PEK-XIY?utm_source=openai))

Q: Do Singaporeans need a visa to go from Beijing to Xi’an?

A: Under the mutual visa‑exemption arrangement (effective Feb 9, 2024), Singapore passport holders can visit mainland China for short stays (up to 30 days for tourism/business/visiting family). Always reconfirm with official sources before travel. ([chinadaily.com.cn](https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202401/26/WS65b2f1e9a3105f21a507e6fd.html?utm_source=openai))

Q: Can I visit the Terracotta Warriors on a day trip from Beijing?

A: Technically yes—if you take an early high‑speed train and a private transfer or tour from Xi’an to the museum, you can do a 1‑day highlights trip, but it’s tight. A relaxed schedule is 1–2 nights in Xi’an to fully enjoy the site and the city. ([terracottawarriorsmuseum.com](https://terracottawarriorsmuseum.com/ticket-admission/?utm_source=openai))

Q: Are there ferry schedules or packages from Singapore to nearby islands while in China region travel planning?

A: While ferries don’t connect Beijing/Xi’an, Singapore travellers often combine China trips with short regional escapes like Batam or Bintan before/after China trips. For ferry schedules and packages from Singapore, check our Batam/Bintan guides and ferry schedules.

• Batam 1 Day City Tour + Ferry at S$99 — Book this Batam day tour.

Related packages and guides (Singapore travellers)

Looking for multi‑destination ideas or an all‑in package? Consider:

• China | 5D4N Tour to Chaoshan, All Inclusive! — a packaged China option from our deals list.
• Batam | 1 Day City Tour + Ferry at Only S$99! — quick nearby island escape to combine with longer China trips.

Useful local guides:

• First Time Visiting China? Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
• From Ancient Capitals to Modern Skylines: China’s Must‑Visit Cities

Packing & seasonal tips

• Best time: spring (Apr–May) and autumn (Sep–Oct) for comfortable temperatures and clearer skies.
• Winter: Beijing gets cold and dry; Xi’an can be chilly — bring layers. Summer: hot + occasional rain.
• Carry a small daypack, power bank, and a printed copy of your train/flight e‑tickets and hotel addresses in Chinese.

Final checklist before you go

• Passport valid 6+ months and pictures of passport saved.
• Check visa/arrival card & airline boarding rules for Singapore passport holders. ([wise.com](https://wise.com/sg/blog/travel-to-china-from-singapore?utm_source=openai))
• Train/flight tickets, Terracotta Warriors tickets reserved (if needed), travel insurance purchased.
• Download maps, translation apps and your hotel contact details (in Chinese if possible).

Ready to explore two of China’s most historic cities? Whether you pick the comfortable high‑speed train for scenic convenience or the short flight to save a few hours, Beijing → Xi’an connects the imperial heart of China to the ancient capital that guarded the Silk Road and produced the Terracotta Army. Plan with time, book early for peak season, and allow at least 2–3 days to taste the best of Xi’an.

👉 Check our latest China packages and WhatsApp us to book now.