Xi'an

Getting around: Metro Line 14 runs directly to all three Xi'an Xianyang Airport terminals (T1/T2/T3 and the new Terminal 5 since February 2025) for a distance-based ¥2–7 fare (~1–1.5h) — cheaper and more reliable than any alternative. The airport shuttle bus costs ~¥25 for a similar duration; taxis run ¥70–200 depending on traffic (peak hours 7–9am and 5–7pm are congested). Inside the city wall, walking and cycling cover everything — no car is needed. The Terracotta Army, an hour out, needs the dedicated tourist bus (Line 306) or a taxi/ride-hailing app.

Halal & prayer places: Among the densest halal concentrations anywhere in China — the Muslim Quarter (Beiyuanmen, Xiyangshi, Dapiyuan, and Huajue Lane) is home to 60,000+ Hui Muslims, and being itself a Muslim neighborhood, most of its restaurants are halal without needing to ask, spanning close to 300 snack varieties. The Great Mosque on Huajue Lane (built in the Tang dynasty) is one of China's oldest, built in pure traditional Chinese courtyard style rather than typical Islamic dome architecture. Ten historic mosques dot the same quarter. Prices inside the quarter run slightly tourist-inflated — haggling is normal and expected.

Local safety: The Muslim Quarter gets very crowded and some vendors overprice for tourists; watch your pockets in the crush and confirm prices before buying. The 'tea house' scam appears here too, so decline invitations from strangers.

Cost figures: 2026 prices: casual Muslim Quarter meal ¥15–35, mid-range restaurant ¥60–100/person, Terracotta Army ticket ¥120 (regular) or ¥150 (Mar–Nov peak), city wall bike rental ¥45/3hrs (tandem ¥90) plus a refundable ¥100 deposit, Great Mosque entry ¥15–25 (free for Muslims and under 120cm).