While the Terracotta Warriors in Xian are globally famous, it isn’t the only ancient attraction to visit; here’s what’s in store at the fascinating Banpo Museum.
Planning A Visit
This site is located on the eastern outskirts of the city, within easy reach of properties like Grand Park Xian, located next to the historical City Wall. From such city centre hotels in Xian, China, one can take a taxi to the site or use public transport; options include the metro (Line 1) to Banpo Station and bus # 416, 406, 269 or 105 to Banpo Museum (Banpo Bowuguan) Station. Keep in mind that you can visit this museum on excursions to the Terracotta Warriors.
A Neolithic-Era Community
The Banpo Museum is located at the base of excavations of a prehistoric site that offers insights into the Neolithic Yangshao culture dating back approximately 6,000 years ago! Notably, this was a matriarchal community with women playing a key role including labour and one can see not only artefacts here, but excavated buildings too.
What to Expect
Encompassing an area of around 4,500 square metres, the museum has a huge Site Hall to explore; here, one can expect to get an idea of what this prehistoric village was like and how people lived at the time including aspects like pottery making. The residential section is a key draw with its engaging huts, tombs and kilns.
Exhibition Halls
The Banpo Museum also features two exhibition halls. The first one has two areas that showcase excavated relics; you will get to view artwork and adornments along with various tools used be it pottery and stone knives, sickles or axes. The second exhibition hall hosts special shows and temporary exhibitions covering more aspects of this ancient culture.
