The Tang West Market (Xishi) was one of two great markets of Tang Chang'an (Xi'an), serving as the western terminus of the overland Silk Road where Sogdian, Persian, Arab and Indian merchants traded. The site was rediscovered during 2006-2008 archaeological work. Today the complex combines: (1) the Silk Road / West Market Museum showing excavated Tang foundations + 20,000+ trade artifacts (¥50 entry, free Wed); (2) a reconstructed Tang commercial street with shops, calligraphy halls, and Hu-style restaurants; (3) the Sino-Foreign Cultural Plaza. The museum is the most underrated history museum in Xi'an after the Shaanxi History Museum — far less crowded. Allow 2-3 hours. Combine with a Hu-style lunch (lamb skewers + naan).
Address
118 Laodong South Rd, Liantang District
劳动南路 118 号
Highlights
- Silk Road excavationsIn-situ Tang street foundations under glass floors
- 20,000+ Tang artifactsSogdian coins, Persian glass, Arab pottery
- Free WednesdaysMuseum free admission
For foreign visitors
- English service: partial english
- Cards accepted: visa, master
- Booking / entry: not needed
- Best time: Wednesday free admission; off-season weekdays
- Wi-Fi: free
- Transit access: metro direct
Photos
What travelers say (3 reviews)
SilkRoadFan·TripAdvisor·4/5
Underrated museum — in-situ Tang foundations under glass floors. Sogdian + Persian Silk Road artifacts. ¥50, free Wed.
2026-04-15
西市博物馆·Xiaohongshu·4/5
比陕历博清净！大唐西市重建+丝路文物，胡式餐厅地道。免费周三排队不多。
2026-03-20
Lisa H.·Google Maps·3/5
Smaller than expected but informative. The reconstructed commercial street is touristy. Good 2-hour stop after Big Wild Goose Pagoda.
2026-02-18
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