Best Places to Visit in Shaanxi | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat

Food & Drinks To Try In Shaanxi

1. Biangbiang noodles: This is a must-try dish in Shaanxi, known for its wide and thick handmade noodles. The name "biangbiang" comes from the sound made when the noodles are slapped against the table during the preparation process. These noodles are typically served with a spicy and savory sauce, topped with various ingredients such as chili oil, garlic, and vegetables.

2. Roujiamo: Often referred to as the "Chinese hamburger," roujiamo is a popular street food in Shaanxi. It consists of a crispy and flaky bread bun filled with tender and flavorful braised pork. The combination of the juicy meat and the soft bun creates a delicious and satisfying snack.

3. Yangrou paomo: This is a traditional Shaanxi dish that features shredded flatbread soaked in a rich and flavorful lamb or beef broth. The bread is torn into small pieces and then added to the broth along with tender chunks of meat, creating a hearty and comforting meal. It is often served with various condiments such as garlic, chili oil, and cilantro.

4. Liangpi: Liangpi is a cold noodle dish that is perfect for hot summer days. It consists of wide and chewy noodles made from mung bean starch, served with a tangy and spicy sauce made from vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and chili oil. It is often garnished with cucumber, bean sprouts, and cilantro, adding a refreshing and crunchy texture to the dish.

5. Pita Bread Soaked in Lamb Soup: This unique dish is a specialty of the Muslim quarter in Xi'an, the capital city of Shaanxi. It features pieces of crispy pita bread soaked in a rich and aromatic lamb soup. The bread absorbs the flavors of the soup, becoming soft and flavorful. It is often served with tender chunks of lamb and various spices, creating a delicious and filling meal.

6. Jinggao: Jinggao is a traditional Shaanxi dessert made from glutinous rice flour and sweet bean paste. It is shaped into small balls and then steamed, resulting in a soft and chewy texture. The sweet bean paste filling adds a delightful sweetness to the dessert. Jinggao is often enjoyed during festivals and special occasions.

7. Hua'er: Hua'er is a traditional folk song in Shaanxi, and it is often accompanied by a special type of tea called "Hua'er tea." This tea is made from a variety of herbs and flowers, such as chrysanthemum, honeysuckle, and wolfberry. It has a fragrant aroma and a slightly sweet taste, making it a popular beverage to enjoy while listening to Hua'er performances.

8. Shaanxi vinegar: Shaanxi is famous for its vinegar production, and trying the local vinegar is a must when visiting the region. Shaanxi vinegar is made from fermented sorghum and wheat bran, resulting in a dark and aromatic vinegar with a slightly sweet and sour taste. It is often used as a dipping sauce or added to various dishes to enhance their flavors.

9. Shaanxi wine: Shaanxi is also known for its wine production, particularly the famous "Shaanxi rice wine." This traditional Chinese wine is made from fermented glutinous rice and has a mild and sweet taste. It is often enjoyed during festive occasions and is believed to have various health benefits.

10. Persimmon cakes: Shaanxi is known for its high-quality persimmons, and one popular way to enjoy them is by eating persimmon cakes. These cakes are made from dried persimmons that are mashed and mixed with various nuts and seeds. They have a sweet and chewy texture, making them a delightful treat for those with a sweet tooth.

Flight Calendar For Shaanxi

Use our flight calendar to discover the Cheapest Days and Months to Book Flight to Shaanxi.

Transportation To Shaanxi

There are several transportation options to Shaanxi, China.

1. Airplane: The most convenient way to reach Shaanxi is by flying into Xi'an Xianyang International Airport, which is the main airport serving the province. There are numerous domestic and international flights connecting Xi'an with major cities around the world.

2. Train: Shaanxi has a well-developed railway network, and there are several train stations in the province. The most popular one is Xi'an Railway Station, which is a major transportation hub. High-speed trains connect Xi'an with other major cities in China, making it a convenient option for travelers.

3. Bus: Long-distance buses are available to Shaanxi from various cities in China. There are both regular and sleeper buses, depending on the distance and comfort level you prefer. Bus stations are usually located in city centers and offer affordable transportation options.

4. Car: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car and travel to Shaanxi by road. The province is well-connected to neighboring provinces and has a good highway system. However, keep in mind that driving in China may be challenging for foreigners due to different traffic rules and language barriers.

5. Boat: If you are coming from a nearby region, you may consider taking a boat to Shaanxi. The province is located along the Yellow River, and there are some river cruises available that can take you to Xi'an or other cities in Shaanxi.

It is recommended to check the availability and schedules of transportation options before planning your trip to Shaanxi, China.