Xi’an Trendy Photo Spots – Become a Social Media Star!
If you’re done with the usual tourist sites and want to snap artsy, trendy photos that can blow up your social media, a trip to Xi’an’s offbeat spots is exactly what you need. These photo-worthy locations will turn you into a “like magnet” among your friends!
Tang Vibes, Relive the Glory of Chang’an
When we think of the flourishing Tang Dynasty, we immediately think of Xi’an. Although the city has no surviving wooden Tang-era buildings, its large-scale Tang-style architecture recreates the grandeur of ancient Chang’an. From the Shaanxi History Museum, Datang Furong Garden, Qujiang Ruins Park, to the Chang’an Twelve-Hour Street, you can experience everything from costume dressing to live performances. Constantly evolving, Xi’an lets every visitor step into the shoes of a Tang citizen—this is probably why so many people flock here to feel the glory of ancient Chang’an.
For an immersive experience, nothing beats wearing Hanfu. Choose which Tang-era character you want to become and dress accordingly, then wander through the city filled with Tang vibes and music. Most attractions in Xi’an offer Hanfu rentals—basic outfits cost around ¥100/day, while higher-end sets are about ¥300/day. Some dedicated travelers even bring their own costumes. Simply put, in Xi’an, not wearing Hanfu feels slightly out of place.
Recommended photo spots: Chang’an Twelve-Hour Street, Datang Buyecheng (Datang Never-Sleeping City), Datang Furong Garden, Datang Xishi, Gui Tang Lou in Never-Sleeping City, Qinglong Temple, Big Wild Goose Pagoda (Dayan Pagoda, Dà Yàn Tǎ), Big Wild Goose Temple (Ci’en Si), Small Wild Goose Pagoda, Shijing Li, Xingqing Palace, Qujiang Pool Ruins Park.
Besides realistic scenery, Xi’an is a performance hub. Tang-era music, dance, and historical stories can keep you entertained from day to night. Here are some must-see shows that bring Xi’an’s stories to life:
- “Resurrected Legion” – A four-act immersive play recounting the Qin unification of the six states; Venue: Terracotta Army
- “The Song of Everlasting Sorrow” (Changhen Ge) – Set against Lishan Mountain and Jiulong Lake, depicting Yang Guifei and Emperor Xuanzong’s tragic love while showcasing Chang’an’s prosperity; Venue: Huaqing Palace
- “Camel Bell Legend” – Stories of caravans along the ancient Silk Road; Venue: Xi’an Huaxia Culture & Art Theatre
- “Dreaming Chang’an” – A performance themed around Tang rituals and etiquette; Venue: Xi’an City Wall
- “Return to Tang Dynasty” – Experience the dreamy and poetic grandeur of Tang celebrations; Venue: Datang Furong Garden
- “Forever Love” – Follows a Chinese-American girl returning to her roots, exploring national memories; Venue: Xi’an Forever Love
- “Feast of Bliss” – Divided into Tang Banquets, Qingping Tune, and Grand Tang Splendor, showcasing Tang-era music and dance; Venue: Chang’an Twelve-Hour Street
- “Boundless Chang’an” – Directed by Zhang Yimou, blending traditional culture with modern technology to tell Tang stories in a new visual style; Venue: Chang’an Le Belt & Road Cultural Art Cente
Vintage Revival – Explore Retro Xi’an
Xi’an Film Studio
Xi’an Film Studio holds a special place in the hearts of every local. Founded in 1958, it has nurtured famous directors such as Zhang Yimou and Chen Kaige, and produced classics like Red Sorghum , Farewell My Concubine , and A Chinese Odyssey.
Today, the Xi’an Film Art Experience Center not only preserves over 300 historical film projectors and original reels, but also showcases vintage cars seen in old movies, as well as scripts and props from classic productions. Visitors can even step into the whimsical world of A Chinese Odyssey —exploring the Spider Cave, Water Curtain Cave, and White Bone Spirit—making it perfect for photography and family outings alike.Image 4
- Tickets: Park is free, Museum ¥99
- Opening Hours:
Peak season (May 1 – Oct 31): 09:30–21:00 (last entry 20:00)
Off season (Nov 1 – Apr 30): 09:30–17:30 (last entry 16:30)
Old Steel Factory (Lao Gangchang)
Built in 1958, Xi’an’s Old Steel Factory closed in 2002 and was later acquired by Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology. In 2013, the site was transformed into the Lao Gangchang Creative Design Park by Huaqing Creative Industries. Much like Banpo Art Zone, it gives new life to old industrial buildings. Its loft-style industrial spaces are perfect for photos, and even on weekends, crowds are minimal. After a shoot, you can relax in one of the park’s cozy cafés for an afternoon of leisure.Image 5
- Tickets: Free
- Address: Within Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology, Huaqing College, Xincheng District, Xingfu South Road
Wuxing Street Catholic Church
While Xi’an is home to numerous Buddhist, Taoist, and Islamic temples, Western-style churches are rare. Wuxing Street Catholic Church, commonly called Tushizi Church or “South Church” by locals, was originally built in the 54th year of Emperor Kangxi’s reign. Its architecture blends Eastern and Western styles, and it’s a popular spot for couples’ wedding photos.
Bailu Warehouse (Bailu Cang)
Bailu Warehouse combines food and folk culture, inspired by the novel White Deer Plain. It consists of three main areas: a folk village, amusement park, and Republic-era streets. Photography enthusiasts are encouraged to wear Republic-era costumes—the street setups, shopkeepers’ outfits, and props like telephone booths, vintage cars, rickshaws, and trams make for a perfect shoot.
Banpo International Art Village
Converted from the Northwest’s first dyeing factory, Banpo Art Village is often called “Xi’an’s 798 Art Zone.” It’s a bit more niche, with quieter spaces ideal for photography lovers seeking tranquility. The area features art exhibitions, galleries, periodic performances, and artistic cafés. Hand-painted murals adorn the walls, making it extremely photogenic.Image 7
- Transport: Metro Line 1, Banpo Station, Exit C, ~500m walk
- Tickets: Free, open all day
Dahua 1935
Dahua 1935 was formerly the historic Chang’an Dahua Textile Factory. Redesigned by internationally renowned architects, it features seven workshops full of surprises—including an elevated runway, second-floor corridors, underground sections, and auxiliary buildings. The industrial-style space includes numerous restaurants, shops, theaters, museums, and stylish cafés. With red brick walls, greenery, graffiti, and industrial art installations, every corner is a potential Instagram spot.
Modern Architecture – Explore Fashionable Xi’an
Zhongda International (South Gate)
The newly renovated Zhongda International Mall at the South Gate has become one of Xi’an’s trendiest photo spots. Inside, the shops and indoor streets offer plenty of options for Instagram-worthy shots—choose from IN-style, vintage, or artsy aesthetics.
The two-story Starbucks Reserve here features strong spatial design, blending Korean-style exteriors with Xi’an’s local charm. Elements of Chinese joinery (“sunmao”) merge with coffee culture, making the space photogenic from entrance to the second floor. Its giant “Xi’an” wall is a must-shoot Instagram hotspot.
Many people have seen the ultra-magical transparent spiral staircase on social media—here’s the real deal! Located in Sanlian Bookstore, it’s a visually stunning and highly designed space. The store includes regular book sections, a café, and stationery. While photographing, remember to stay quiet and respect other readers.
The American vintage-style street on Zhongda International’s basement level is highly photogenic. Though compact, it gathers trendy boutiques, bars, and barber shops. Shuangmian Barber Shop is Xi’an’s first vintage barber, and the highly rated Bar No.18 is also here. Simple clothing works best—camel, oatmeal, and khaki tones match the aesthetic perfectly.
Many people have seen the ultra-magical transparent spiral staircase on social media—here’s the real deal! Located in Sanlian Bookstore, it’s a visually stunning and highly designed space. The store includes regular book sections, a café, and stationery. While photographing, remember to stay quiet and respect other readers.
The American vintage-style street on Zhongda International’s basement level is highly photogenic. Though compact, it gathers trendy boutiques, bars, and barber shops. Shuangmian Barber Shop is Xi’an’s first vintage barber, and the highly rated Bar No.18 is also here. Simple clothing works best—camel, oatmeal, and khaki tones match the aesthetic perfectly.
Blue Ocean & Man Alley (Lanhai Feng & Man Xiang)
Located in Xi’an’s northern suburbs at the Blue Ocean Center, this bookstore emphasizes “quiet and slow.” Its black-and-gold design has made it a social media favorite. The bookstore spans four floors and combines traditional books, creative products, coffee, handmade crafts, exhibitions, and light meals.
Fang Suo, Xi’an
Fang Suo Xi’an is located in the G-PARK Fashion Street of the Old City. The three-story standalone building has a minimalist architectural style with abundant wooden décor, giving it a high-quality feel. Designers incorporated archways, wall niches, and dougong-style ceilings, evoking a “Hogwarts vibe.”
- Photo tips: Use books as props—reading, flipping, or holding books can inspire poses. Due to the unique environment, overly dramatic poses aren’t recommended.
- Outfit tips: The space is mainly light wood tones, so cream or pastel clothing works best.
New Exhibition – Be Among the First to Experience It!
Qin & Han Exhibition Hall, Shaanxi History Museum
On December 29, 2023, the Qin & Han Exhibition Hall (秦汉馆, Qín Hàn Guǎn) at the Shaanxi History Museum officially opened for trial visits. As the only museum in China dedicated to showcasing the origins, development, and contributions of Qin and Han civilization, this hall is a must-visit for enthusiasts of Qin-Han history.
The hall offers a more detailed display of Qin and Han artifacts from the museum’s collection. A total of 732 pieces illustrate political, economic, cultural, technological, and foreign exchange aspects, highlighting the role of Qin-Han civilization in the development of Chinese culture. Numerous multimedia installations create an immersive experience beyond traditional exhibits.
Transportation: Take Metro Line 2 or 4 to Xi’an North Railway Station (北客站, Běi Kè Zhàn), transfer to Line 14, and get off at Qin Gong Station (秦宫站, Qín Gōng Zhàn). Exit via A, follow the announcements, and catch the free shuttle bus right outside the station to the museum.
Opening Hours: 10:00–16:30 daily (last entry at 16:00); closed all day on Tuesdays (except national holidays).
Accessible Areas: From the South Gate Que Lou (南门阙楼, Nánmén Quèlóu) to Exhibition Hall 3; other areas are temporarily closed.