Tips on Avoiding Xi’an Tourist Traps

Xi’an Tourist Traps

Xi’an, China, has a lot to offer with its rich culture and history and plenty of interesting places to visit. However, there are quite a few areas where all people seem to be interested in is the size of your wallet.

High Pressure Sales

While you’re on tour and visiting museums, you may find yourself being pressured to buy overpriced merchandise. Even the Terra Cotta Warriors Factory can become a place to sell souvenirs to tourists instead of being a place to explore historic art, and at the Feng Shui museum you may be pressured to buy expensive jade figurines and other items. Sales people can be aggressive and may even pull at your clothes.

Pickpockets, Overcharges, and Bargaining

Be aware of pickpockets may be around many popular areas such as the Bell Tower of Xi’an, underground shopping tunnels, and transportation centers. When you shop or go out to eat, always check your bill carefully, especially if you pay by credit card.

You may have to negotiate or bargain for many goods and services and some people may make grandiose price claims to encourage you to pay more. You may think you got a great deal on a tour, for example, only to find that the driver shortened the tour based on what you paid. Be aware when hanging around train stations: persistent people may approach you asking for money or transportation.

Editor’s Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about Tourist Traps in Xi’an.