How to Buy the Subway Tickets in Xi’an | Most Detailed Guide

Xi’an, the ancient capital of China and home to the Terracotta Warriors, is now also a modern city with an efficient and growing public transportation system, including the Xi’an Subway. The subway is one of the most convenient, affordable, and efficient ways to get around this historical city. If you are planning to travel to Xi’an for business or leisure, understanding how to purchase subway tickets and navigate the metro system will ensure a smooth experience. This guide will provide you with all the important information about buying subway tickets in Xi’an, the metro fare structure, the lines, and how to access famous tourist attractions using the subway system in 2025.

Xi’an Subway

1. How to Buy Subway Tickets in Xi’an

There are several methods to buy subway tickets in Xi’an. Whether you prefer buying tickets in person or via a mobile app, there are plenty of options to suit your needs. Below, we explain each of these methods in detail.

2.1. Ticket Vending Machines

Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs) are available at all metro stations in Xi’an. These machines are easy to use and accept both cash (Chinese Yuan) and electronic payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay. The user interface is bilingual (Chinese and English), so it is easy for foreigners to navigate.

How to Use Ticket Vending Machines:

1. Select your language (Chinese or English) on the touchscreen.
2. Choose your destination by selecting the corresponding station from the list.
3. The machine will display the fare based on your selection.
4. Pay the fare via cash or mobile payment methods.
5. Collect your ticket and change (if applicable).

Ticket Vending Machines

2.2. Ticket Booths

For travelers who prefer face-to-face assistance or have questions, Ticket Booths at each metro station are available. These booths are staffed by attendants who can assist with ticket purchases. While this option is less common for tech-savvy travelers, it can be useful for first-time visitors.

How to Use Ticket Booths:

1. Approach the counter and ask for a ticket (you can communicate in English if needed).
2. Tell the attendant your destination, and they will provide the correct fare.
3. Pay with cash or mobile payments.
4. Receive your ticket.

Ticket Booths

2.3. Xi’an Metro App/Alipay

For those who prefer digital solutions, the Xi’an Metro App allows you to purchase tickets directly from your smartphone. This app is available for both iOS and Android devices and supports multiple languages, including English.

How to Use the Xi’an Metro App:

1. Download the App
   First, download the official Xi’an Metro app from the App Store (for iPhone) or Google Play Store (for Android devices). It’s free to download and easy to install.
2. Register an Account
   After installing the app, open it and create a user account. This process requires basic information like your phone number and a password for security.
3. Add Payment Methods
   Once your account is set up, add a payment method (Wechat or Alipay) to your profile. You can link a bank card or use a digital wallet to top up your balance within the app.
4. Purchase a Ticket
   Within the app, select the type of ticket you wish to purchase, such as a single-journey ticket, multiple tickets, or even a monthly pass. Choose your departure and arrival stations, and the fare will be calculated automatically.
5. Scan the QR Code
   After purchasing your ticket, the app will generate a QR code. At the metro station, simply scan the QR code at the ticket gate for entry and exit. The system will deduct the appropriate fare from your account.
6. Exit the Station
   To exit the station, scan the same QR code at the exit gate. The app will charge you the correct fare based on the distance traveled.

How to Use the Alipay to Pay the Subway Ticket:

1. Open Alipay
   Open the Alipay app, which is one of the most widely used mobile payment platforms in China. If you don’t have the app, download it from the App Store or Google Play Store and complete the registration process.
2. Find Xi’an Metro in Alipay
   Once logged in, go to the “Transportation” section. Look for the “Xi’an Metro” option, which is listed under the public transport services.
3. Link Your Alipay Account
   Link your Alipay account to your metro travel system by following the prompts. You can also link your bank card or top up your Alipay balance to ensure smooth transactions.
4. Scan the QR Code
   When you arrive at the metro station, scan the QR code displayed at the ticket gate using the Alipay app. This will open the gate and allow you to enter.
5. Exit the Metro
   When exiting, scan the QR code again at the exit gate. The fare will be deducted from your Alipay balance based on the distance traveled.

Pay with Alipay

2.4. Xi’an Metro Travel Card

For those planning to stay in Xi’an for more than a few days or take the subway multiple times, the Xi’an Metro Travel Card is a convenient option. This rechargeable smart card offers discounted fares and can be used for unlimited travel over a certain period.

How to Use a Travel Card:

1. Purchase the card at the customer service desk or ticket vending machine.
2. You will need to deposit ¥20 (¥10 as a deposit and ¥10 as the initial fare balance).
3. Recharge the card at any vending machine or customer service desk.
4. Use it to tap in and out at the metro stations for discounted fares.

2.5. Group Tickets

If you are traveling with a corporate group or a tourist group, it is possible to purchase Group Tickets. These tickets offer a discount for bulk purchases and are available at ticket booths or customer service desks at metro stations. The Group Ticket system is particularly useful for businesses or tour operators organizing transportation for large groups.

3. Types of Subway Tickets in Xi’an

There are several types of subway tickets in Xi’an, each designed to suit different travel needs. Here are the most common types of tickets:

3.1. Single Journey Ticket

A Single Journey Ticket is a one-way ticket that is purchased for a specific route. The cost of a single journey depends on the distance traveled, with fares ranging from ¥2 to ¥8. Single journey tickets are ideal for tourists or business travelers making short trips.

Single Journey Ticket

3.2. Travel Card

A Travel Card is a rechargeable smart card that offers discounted fares. This is a great option for frequent travelers, offering more flexibility than single journey tickets. You can recharge the card at any station as needed.

3.3. Tourist Pass

Xi’an offers a Tourist Pass for short-term visitors, which allows unlimited travel within a designated period (e.g., 3 days or 7 days). This is an excellent option for tourists who will be using the subway frequently during their stay.

3-Day Ticket

3.4. Monthly Pass

A Monthly Pass is a great option for people who are staying in Xi’an for a longer duration or corporate clients who require regular travel. This pass offers unlimited travel within a month.

4. Xi’an Subway Fare Prices

As of 2025, the fare structure for the Xi’an Subway is distance-based, with the price increasing depending on how far you are traveling. Below is the general fare pricing:

• ¥2 for journeys within the first 4 kilometers.
• ¥3 for journeys between 4-6 kilometers.
• ¥4 for journeys between 6-8 kilometers.
• ¥5-¥8 for journeys over 8 kilometers.

4.1. Additional Fare Details:

• Children under the age of 6 or under 1.3 meters in height travel for free.
• Passengers with a valid Travel Card or Tourist Pass will benefit from discounted fares.

5. Xi’an Subway Lines (2025)

Xi’an’s subway system includes 13 operational lines in 2025, making it one of the largest metro networks in China. The lines are all interconnected, making it easy to travel between districts and attractions. Here’s a breakdown of the main subway lines in Xi’an:

5.1. Line 1 (Red Line)

• Key Stations: Xi’an Railway Station, Bell Tower, and Xi’an North Railway Station.
• This line connects the southern and northern parts of the city, passing through some of Xi’an’s key districts.

5.2. Line 2 (Green Line)

• Key Stations: Zhonglou (Bell Tower), Xiaozhai, and Xi’an North Railway Station.
• This circular line is ideal for traveling around the city center and accessing multiple commercial areas.

5.3. Line 3 (Orange Line)

• Key Stations: Chang’an, Yan’an and Weiquan.
• The east-west line connects outlying districts and provides easy access to both business and residential areas.

5.4. Line 4 (Blue Line)

• Key Stations: Xi’an International Airport, Xianyang, and Changan.
• A vital line for those flying in or out of Xi’an, also passing through important commercial hubs.

5.5. Line 5 (Purple Line)

• Key Stations: Wangjia Village, and Xi’an North Railway Station.
• Connecting northern parts of the city, this line facilitates travel for tourists visiting Xi’an’s ancient sites.

5.6. Line 6 (Yellow Line)

• Key Stations: Weiquan North Road, and Chengbei.
• Provides service to Xi’an’s rapidly growing northern districts, connecting newer residential and commercial zones.

The Interior of Xi’an Subway

6. Popular Metro Stations near Major Tourist Attractions

Xi’an’s subway system provides convenient access to many of the city’s most famous landmarks:

• Bell Tower (钟楼):
  Line 2, Zhonglou Station, at the center of the city. A popular historical monument surrounded by shops and restaurants.
• Xi’an City Wall (西安城墙):
  Line 2, Zhonglou Station / Line 1, Yongningmen Station. A must-visit ancient structure, ideal for sightseeing and cycling.
• Big Wild Goose Pagoda (大雁塔):
  Line 3, Big Wild Goose Pagoda Station. A Buddhist landmark and UNESCO site.
• Muslim Quarter (回民街):
  Line 2, at Beidajie Station. A vibrant area famous for its street food, shops, and traditional architecture, perfect for a cultural exploration.
• Shaanxi History Museum (陕西历史博物馆):
  Line 3, at Yanta Station. One of the most important museums in China, showcasing ancient artifacts and offering insights into the region’s rich history.
• Terracotta Army (兵马俑):
  Line 1, at Xi’an North Railway Station (then transfer to a bus). Famous UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing thousands of life-sized clay soldiers and horses from the Qin Dynasty.