Xi'an's shopping areas are broadly divided into two parts. One is the Old City area centered around the Bell Tower and Yongning Gate, which is better for traditional streets, cultural souvenirs, and a more local atmosphere.
The other is the newer commercial district around Xiaozhai and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. It is mainly consists of large shopping malls, offering a wider range of brands and more modern shopping environments.
This guide will help you quickly understand what's worth buying in Xi'an and which shopping spots suit different needs. You could choose one or two places based on your itinerary and interests to add to your trip.
Content Preview
- What to Buy
- 1. Shuyuanmen Cultural Street
- 2. The Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City
- 3. Hongzhuan South Road Morning Market
- 4. SEG International Shopping Center
- 5. Joy City Xi'an
- 6. CDF Duty Free Shop
- 7. MixC Xi'an
What to Buy in Xi'an: Souvenirs That Are Actually Worth It
Cultural Souvenirs & Traditional Crafts – Iconic Pieces with Cultural Value
Terracotta Army figurine and cultural souvenirs in Xi'anWhen choosing souvenirs in Xi'an, we recommend starting with Terracotta Army–themed items, along with one or two lightweight traditional crafts. These are distinctive to the city and meaningful to take home.
- Terracotta Warrior figurines: The most iconic souvenir. Choose smaller, finely crafted versions that are easier to carry and display.
- Attraction-themed souvenirs (fridge magnets, bookmarks, plush toys, etc.): Often inspired by the Terracotta Army, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, or the Bell Tower, with a wide variety of designs. They are small, easy to pack, and reasonably priced, making them ideal as gifts or travel keepsakes.
- Tang Sancai ceramics: Known for their vivid colors and strong visual appeal.
- Shadow puppets (framed pieces, bookmarks, decorative art): Made from leather, these figures can be lit from behind, similar to traditional shadow theatre.
- Paper-cutting art: A traditional craft using red paper to create patterns, often featuring floral or auspicious designs.
- Xun (ceramic flute): A traditional clay wind instrument with a simple shape and a deep, mellow sound.
Instead of just buying souvenirs, you could also try making one yourself. It's more interactive and remarkable. We can arrange hands-on experiences such as creating or restoring clay warrior figures, or painting shadow puppets. Feel free to contact us.
Local Flavors – Taste of Xi'an at Home
Shizi Mo (stone-baked flatbread)If you'd like to bring a bit of Xi'an home with you after your trip, these options are suitable and easy to share.
- Cured beef (La Niurou): A classic local specialty. We recommend choosing vacuum-packed versions for easier transport and storage.
- Shizi Mo (stone-baked flatbread): A traditional bread baked on heated stones, with a drier texture.
- Seasonings (chili oil, Roujiamo seasoning packs): Great if you want to recreate simple local flavors at home.
- Fuzhuan tea: A local tea variety with a light, slightly floral aroma.
- Creative snacks (Roujiamo ice cream, Terracotta Warrior-shaped chocolates, chili oil Basque cake): More fun to try on the spot. They are less suitable for taking away but offer a memorable food experience during your trip.
Where to Shop in Xi'an: Pick Based on Your Style
1. Shuyuanmen Cultural Street – Best for Handicrafts
- Location: No. 24 Shuyuanmen, Beilin District, near Yongning Gate of the City Wall
Shuyuanmen Cultural StreetWe recommend this street if you want to explore traditional handicrafts like shadow puppets, paper-cutting, and seal carving, as many of these shops are gathered along one street.
Here, you could ask local artisans to create simple custom pieces. For example, you could have a name seal carved for yourself or as a gift, or get a paper-cut portrait made of you and your travel companions. Instead of buying off the shelf, you take home something made just for you, which feels more personal and special.
You could also try hands-on activities like painting a shadow puppet, making a Chinese knot, or decorating a lacquer fan. Engaging in the process connects you with the craft and enhances the experience. See our 10-Day China Culture Relics Classic Tour.
Color shadow puppetsIt's very close to Yongning Gate of the City Wall, so it's easy to combine with a visit there. You could stop by after walking on the wall, or continue on to the Forest of Stone Steles Museum, about a 10-minute walk away.
2. The Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City – A Lively Night Street for Shopping and Strolling
- Location: No. 46 Ci'en Road, Yanta District, next to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda
Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright CityThis is perfect for you to browse Xi'an-themed souvenirs while enjoying a lively night street. You'll find a wide range of designs inspired by the Terracotta Army, Tang culture, and local food, all in one place.
There are also eight official souvenir stores from major attractions, including the Terracotta Army, Shaanxi History Museum, and Huaqing Palace. If you don't have time to visit them all, this is a practical stop to pick up a good selection.
Evening is the best time to visit for the vibrant atmosphere. The street is lined with Tang-style architecture, along with food stalls, restaurants, Hanfu experience shops, and various photo spots, including decorative installations inspired by classical Chinese poetry.
As you walk along, you'll come across many street performances themed around the Tang Dynasty. From costumes to performance styles, they are designed to reflect the atmosphere of that era.
The night lighting makes you feel like you're in an ancient Chang'an night market. It's well worth setting aside an evening to explore.
3. Hongzhuan South Road Morning Market – Local Life Experience
- Location: Hongzhuan South Road (Furong Street), Yanta District
Visiting a morning market is a great way to experience a more local and authentic side of Xi'an, and this one feels less crowded and less touristy.
The market runs from 5:30 to 9:00 a.m. We suggest arriving between 7:00 and 8:30 for the best experience. You could start with breakfast at a small stall, like hot spicy soup with meatballs or soft tofu pudding.
Afterward, you could explore the vegetable and fruit stalls and small shops. You might find seasonal ingredients, vendors selling clothes, or even offering quick haircuts.
Fruit standAs you walk around, you'll hear vendors calling and locals bargaining, along with the smell of fresh food. It gives you a closer, more everyday view of life here.
Around 9:00 a.m., you could also observe the market winding down. Stalls begin to pack up, goods are sorted and loaded, and the crowd gradually thins out. This shift from busy to quiet shows a different side of the market.
It's about a 10-minute drive from the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, so you could head there afterward.
4. SEG International Shopping Center – Trendy Mall & Landmark Interior
- Location: No. 123, Chang'an Middle Road, Yanta District
SEG International Shopping CenterSEG is one of the most popular malls in Xi'an, known for its wide range of brands and strong local crowd. It's a favorite among young locals, creating a lively atmosphere
4In terms of shopping, you'll find everything from luxury and premium labels to fast fashion and more affordable options. There are also plenty of dining choices, so you could easily enjoy a meal here
The mall boasts two standout designs: the world's largest indoor waterfall and one of Asia's longest indoor escalators. You could pause for photos or ride the escalator all the way up as part of your visit.
It's about a 15-minute drive from the Big and Small Wild Goose Pagodas, making it a convenient stop after sightseeing.
5. Joy City Xi'an – Convenient Mall Near the Big Wild Goose Pagoda
- Location: No. 777 Ci'en Road, Yanta District, right next to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda
Xi'an Joy CityRight next to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, this is the most convenient place to stop for after sightseeing. It's about a 10-minute walk, so you don't need to go out of your way to find somewhere to rest or eat.
The mall mainly boasts mid- to high-end brands, with a good mix of well-known international names.
The 4th-floor terrace is a great spot to view the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, with restaurants on the same level. You could take photos or enjoy an afternoon tea and relax after your visit.
6. CDF Duty Free Shop – Duty-Free Shopping Before Departure
- Location: Zhongda International, No. 30 South Street, Beilin District
If you plan to do duty-free shopping before leaving Xi'an, this downtown store lets you choose and order in advance instead of rushing at the airport. You could browse and place your order here, then pick up your items at the airport on your departure day. That way, you won't need to carry shopping bags around the city.
In addition, the store offers a wider selection and a more spacious environment, so you could browse more comfortably.
Please note that you'll need to provide your passport and a departure flight within 60 days in order to make a purchase.
It's about a 15-minute walk from Yongning Gate of the City Wall and can easily be included in the same visit.
7. MixC Xi'an – Premium Mall & Design Space
- Location: Intersection of Yanzhan Road and Chang'an South Road, Yanta District
MixC stands out for its quieter atmosphere, upscale brand selection, and distinctive architectural design, especially the iconic "Tree of Life."
The mall focuses on high-end brands, with a more curated mix.
In the open-air central courtyard stands the "Tree of Life," rising seven floors and now a recognizable landmark in Xi'an. Inspired by the thousand-year-old ginkgo tree at Ancient Guanyin Temple, it's especially popular for photos and social media.
A recommended photo spot is the outdoor staircase between L2 and L3, where you could capture the full view of the structure. In the evening, light shows make it look more striking and easier to photograph.
It's about a 20-minute drive from the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and works well as a stop after sightseeing.
Tour Xi'an With China Highlights
If shopping is part of your Xi'an tour, it's helpful to have someone who knows where to go and what's worth buying. Your guide can help you save time, avoid common traps, and find places that match your style.
Contact us to plan your Xi'an tours with a private consultant, guide, and driver; we can fit the right shopping stops into your itinerary, so everything feels easy and well arranged.