How to Meet Locals & Make Friends in Xi’an, China

1. Xi'an Bell Tower Night Market

A bustling market offering local food and souvenirs, perfect for socializing with locals.

Late-night activity: Operates into the evening, providing an opportunity to meet locals after dark.
Local cuisine: Features street food stalls selling traditional Xi'an dishes.
Central location: Close to popular attractions, making it a convenient social spot.

A vibrant street filled with Muslim-style restaurants and snack bars where you can mingle with the locals.

Cultural immersion: Provides a glimpse into Xi'an's rich Hui culture.
Variety of foods: Offers numerous food choices, encouraging conversations over shared meals.
Bustling atmosphere: The lively environment fosters interaction with locals and fellow travelers.

Join a group tour to the Terracotta Warriors and share the experience with fellow travelers and locals.

Shared experience: Creates opportunities for conversations and friendships during the journey.
World-famous attraction: Visiting a world-renowned site can spark interesting discussions with locals.
Guided tour: A guide can facilitate interactions with museum staff and fellow travelers.

Rent a bike to explore the city parks and cycling paths where you can meet locals enjoying their leisure time.

Active exploration: Allows for more spontaneous interactions with locals.
Green spaces: Cycling paths provide opportunities to encounter locals exercising or picnicking.
Flexibility: Biking allows for easy movement between various neighborhoods and attractions.

Join a language exchange group to practice Chinese with locals who are eager to learn English.

Language learning: Promotes cultural understanding and personal connections.
Structured environment: Offers a structured setting to practice conversation skills.
Social atmosphere: Provides a relaxed, friendly environment for meeting locals.

Visit the bustling farmers' market to sample local produce and engage with friendly vendors.

Local products: Allows for in-depth conversations about Xi'an's agriculture.
Market atmosphere: The lively environment encourages interactions with locals and fellow travelers.
Fresh produce: Provides opportunities to learn about local ingredients and cooking methods.

Visit the city wall at night for a beautiful view of Xi'an's skyline and meet locals enjoying the scenery.

Nighttime activity: Offers an opportunity to connect with locals in a peaceful, scenic setting.
Historical landmark: Visiting the city wall provides conversations about Xi'an's history.
Panoramic view: The stunning vistas provide a conversation starter with locals and fellow travelers.

Learn to cook traditional Xi'an dishes in a local home and make friends with the host family.

Cultural exchange: Promotes cultural understanding through hands-on cooking experiences.
Interactive learning: Allows for in-depth discussions about local cuisine and cooking techniques.
Home environment: Provides a comfortable setting to connect with locals in a casual, friendly manner.

Visit Xi'an universities to meet students and learn about their daily lives.

Student connections: Allows for meaningful interactions with the next generation of Chinese leaders.
Academic discussions: Provides opportunities to discuss current academic trends and research.
Campus tours: Offers insight into Chinese education systems and campus culture.

Relax in a local coffee shop to meet other travelers and locals.

Coffee culture: Explores the growing coffee culture in Xi'an.
Relaxed environment: Provides a comfortable setting to socialize and connect with others.
Central locations: Situated in popular neighborhoods, making them convenient meeting spots.

Visit local art galleries and studios to engage with artists and art enthusiasts.

Artistic connections: Fosters conversations about Chinese contemporary art.
Creative environment: Offers a unique, inspiring setting for interactions with locals and fellow travelers.
Local artists: Provides opportunities to learn about local art movements and techniques.

Enjoy traditional Chinese tea in a local tea house and meet fellow tea enthusiasts.

Tea culture: Explores the rich history and culture of Chinese tea.
Relaxed environment: Provides a peaceful, tranquil setting for meaningful conversations.
Variety of teas: Offers opportunities to learn about different Chinese teas and brewing methods.

Sing your heart out at a local karaoke bar and make friends with the regular patrons.

Entertainment: Provides a fun, lively setting to meet locals and fellow travelers.
Music sharing: Allows for conversations about music preferences and tastes.
Private rooms: Offers the opportunity to bond with others in a more intimate setting.

Join temple tours to learn about Buddhism and connect with fellow spiritual seekers.

Spiritual connections: Encourages discussions about the role of religion in Chinese culture.
Religious education: Provides insight into Buddhist philosophy and traditions.
Temple atmosphere: Offers a peaceful, spiritual environment for meaningful conversations.

Attend Couchsurfing events to meet fellow travelers and locals who are eager to share their city.

Travel connections: Allows for shared experiences and conversations about future travel plans.
Social atmosphere: Provides a friendly, welcoming setting to connect with others.
Local insights: Offers opportunities to learn about Xi'an from locals who are passionate about their city.