Food

Shop

Drink

Cafe

Stay

Discover Local in Xi'an

Once a bustling textile factory complex, the site has been reimagined as a world-class entertainment and retail destination. Brick chimneys tower over cobbled walkways in this artistic hub with an industrial vibe. Eclectic boutiques, avant-garde galleries and innovative restaurants all invite you to explore their unique stories and flavours. Plazas and courtyards provide space to linger, people-watch or catch a pop-up performance. In the evening, Dahua 1935 takes on a magical glow. String lights and artful projections illuminate the area, creating a lively, intimate atmosphere. Rooftop bars come alive with music and stunning views, while theatres host performances that span genres from traditional to cutting-edge. Sample craft cocktails, browse local art or simply soak in the ambience.
©1996-2025 ARQA.COM

Discover Dahua 1935 entertainment district

A must-see spot that offers a unique blend of culture and cuisine, locals know it as a bustling snack street, perfect for chilling out on a hot summer day. Merchants and students from Arab countries and Persia once settled here, shaping the quarter’s distinct atmosphere. This area is a foodie’s paradise, lined with endless restaurants and food stalls. You’ll find everything from cakes and dried fruits to fresh breads and, most notably, tons of stalls serving barbecued meats on skewers. Meat lovers will be in heaven, but vegetarians might want to tread carefully. Don’t miss the chance to try a traditional Xi'an treat: the mirror cake. These small, round desserts are made of steamed, ground, sticky rice coated in sugar, nuts and rose-flavoured jam – soft, gooey and deliciously unique.

Sample traditional delicacies in the Muslim Quarter

On Shuncheng Alley near the Zhongshan Gate in Xi’an’s City Wall, you’ll find a street full of over 50 stalls and restaurants, against an inspiring backdrop of Ming and Qing dynasty architecture. Here, you can savour an array of local delights like the famous Shaanxi sandwich (rou jia mo) and honey glutinous rice (feng mi zong zi). Don’t miss out on standout snacks like sanyuan jinxian youta (steamed sliced pastry) and qishan ganmianpi (cold noodles). Or how about jingyang pebble baked cake, cooked on heated stones? It’s a relaxed and tasty way to dive into the flavours of Shaanxi province.

Walk your tastebuds down Yongxingfang Street

It's now a cultural and creative area that houses the market itself, as well as cafes, bars, restaurants, homestays, art exhibitions and bookstores. Located within the Xi’an City Wall in the southeast corner, Jianguomen Old Market is fondly regarded by locals as the place where many happy childhood hours were spent. The atmosphere is dynamic and laid-back. Jianguomen’s roots trace back to Xi’an’s ancient trading history, reflecting the city’s blend of cultures and flavours. 

Here, you’ll find an eclectic mix of food stalls and shops, reflecting both the local culture and daily life. From spices and condiments to fresh and cooked meats, fruit and vegetables, dry goods and street food, every corner is a feast for your senses. You’ll also see trinkets and local art and crafts that make ideal gifts or mementos of your visit to Xi’an.

Explore Jianguomen Old Market

In Lianhu District, near the Bell and Drum Tower Square, this restaurant features a Tang Dynasty-style interior and offers authentic Shaanxi flavours. Also known as Prosperity and Fortune Restaurant, Tong Sheng Xiang is famous for its local specialties. Treat yourself to biangbiang. These hand-pulled, belt-like noodles are a Xi’an staple, served with rich toppings like chili oil, garlic and braised meat.  Their name mimics the "biang" sound made during preparation as they’re slapped onto the table. Or try yangrou paomo, a warming lamb stew with pita bread. Liangpi are cold noodles served with sesame paste, vinegar and chili oil, spicy and refreshing on a midsummer’s day. If you’re not in the mood for noodles, roujiamo is a better choice. Often called a "Chinese hamburger", it features shredded beef or pork stuffed in crispy flatbread.

Taste Silk Road Cuisine at Tong Sheng Xiang restaurant

The 86-room family home once belonged to Ming Dynasty official Gao Yuesong, renowned for hosting gatherings of scholars, writers and performers. Though Gao tragically passed at 31, his family lived here for seven generations, many becoming imperial officials. Today, you can explore many of the rooms, including the host’s bedroom, reception rooms, an ancestral hall and a serene garden. Dive into traditional culture by learning papercutting or painting, or taking part in a tea ceremony. A highlight of your visit is shadow puppetry. Local legends are brought to life using delicate figures manipulated against lamplight, performed in the Shaanxi dialect. 

Entry to the courtyard is RMB 15, and you can buy tickets at the gate. Activities, such as the shadow puppet show or painting, are charged separately.

Discover Local in Xi'an

Taste Silk Road Cuisine at Tong Sheng Xiang restaurant

Sample traditional delicacies in the Muslim Quarter

Walk your tastebuds down Yongxingfang Street

Explore Jianguomen Old Market

Visit the inspiring Gao Family Mansion

Discover Dahua 1935 entertainment district