Xian Day Trip: Best Souvenirs to Bring Home

Xian, the ancient capital of China, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're exploring the Terracotta Warriors, wandering through the Muslim Quarter, or cycling atop the ancient city walls, you’ll want to bring home a piece of this incredible city. But with so many unique souvenirs to choose from, how do you pick the best ones? Here’s a curated list of must-buy souvenirs that capture the essence of Xian.

Traditional Crafts & Handicrafts

Terracotta Warrior Replicas

No trip to Xian is complete without a miniature Terracotta Warrior. These intricately crafted replicas come in various sizes, from palm-sized figurines to larger, more detailed statues. For an authentic touch, look for pieces made from the same type of clay as the originals.

Where to buy: The official gift shops near the Terracotta Army Museum offer high-quality replicas, while street vendors near the attraction sell budget-friendly versions.

Shadow Puppets (Pi Ying Xi)

Xian is famous for its traditional shadow puppetry, an ancient form of storytelling using intricately cut leather puppets. These delicate artworks make for unique wall decorations or collectibles.

Pro tip: Opt for puppets depicting famous Chinese legends or historical figures for an extra cultural touch.

Delicious Edible Souvenirs

Xian Persimmon Cakes (Shi Zi Bing)

These sweet, sticky cakes made from dried persimmons are a local specialty. They have a chewy texture and a naturally sweet flavor, making them a perfect snack or gift.

Best place to buy: The Muslim Quarter is packed with vendors selling freshly made persimmon cakes. Look for ones with minimal additives for the most authentic taste.

Liangpi (Cold Skin Noodles) Spice Mix

If you fell in love with Xian’s famous liangpi (cold noodles), why not bring home the flavors? Many shops sell pre-packaged spice mixes so you can recreate this tangy, spicy dish at home.

Bonus: Pair it with some dried chili flakes from the Muslim Quarter for an extra kick.

Unique Textiles & Fashion

Embroidered Silk Scarves

Xian has a long history of silk production, and its embroidered scarves are both elegant and lightweight. Look for designs featuring traditional Chinese motifs like peonies or dragons.

Where to find them: The Shuyuanmen Cultural Street is a great spot for high-quality silk products.

Handmade Cloth Shoes (Bu Xie)

These comfortable, breathable shoes are a traditional staple in Xian. Made from cotton or silk, they often feature intricate embroidery and are perfect for casual wear.

Why buy them? They’re lightweight, pack easily, and make for a practical yet culturally rich souvenir.

Artistic Keepsakes

Calligraphy Scrolls

Xian’s calligraphy scene is thriving, and a beautifully handwritten scroll makes for a sophisticated souvenir. Popular choices include famous poems, blessings, or even your name written in Chinese characters.

Where to shop: The Beilin Museum (Forest of Stone Steles) area has many calligraphy shops where artists can customize pieces on the spot.

Paper-Cut Art (Jian Zhi)

This traditional folk art involves cutting intricate designs into red paper, often symbolizing good luck. These make stunning framed decorations or unique greeting cards.

Best designs: Look for pieces featuring the Big Wild Goose Pagoda or other iconic Xian landmarks.

Tea & Local Beverages

Xian Fu Tea (Jasmine-Scented Tea)

A fragrant, floral tea that’s a local favorite, Xian Fu tea is a great way to bring a taste of the city home. The jasmine-infused variety is particularly popular.

Where to buy: Tea houses in the Muslim Quarter or specialized tea shops near the Bell Tower offer premium selections.

Hua Jiao (Sichuan Pepper) Infused Liquor

For something stronger, consider a bottle of locally made liquor infused with Sichuan pepper. It has a unique numbing spice that’s unforgettable.

Note: Check airline regulations if you’re flying—some countries have restrictions on alcohol imports.

Practical & Quirky Finds

Replica Ancient Coins

Xian’s history as the starting point of the Silk Road means it has a rich numismatic heritage. Replica ancient coins, especially those from the Tang Dynasty, make for fascinating keepsakes.

Fun fact: Some shops sell them in sets representing different dynasties.

Miniature Tang Dynasty Ceramics

Small replicas of Tang Dynasty pottery—such as horses, camels, or figurines—are both decorative and historically meaningful.

Best for: Collectors or those who love minimalist home decor.

Where to Shop for the Best Souvenirs

Muslim Quarter (Huimin Jie)

This bustling area is a one-stop shop for food, spices, textiles, and small trinkets. The lively atmosphere makes shopping here an experience in itself.

Shuyuanmen Cultural Street

If you’re looking for high-end calligraphy, antiques, or silk products, this street is a must-visit.

Terracotta Army Gift Shops

For official and high-quality Terracotta Warrior replicas, the museum’s own shops are the safest bet.

Local Markets (e.g., Xian Antique Market)

For bargain hunters, the antique markets offer everything from vintage coins to handmade crafts—just be prepared to haggle!

Final Shopping Tips

• Bargaining is expected in street markets, but not in official stores.
• Check for authenticity—especially with antiques or "ancient" artifacts.
• Pack carefully—fragile items like ceramics should be well-wrapped.

Now that you know what to look for, happy souvenir hunting in Xian! Each of these treasures will keep your memories of this ancient city alive long after your trip ends.