Camel Herd Headquarters sits right in the heart of Xi’an’s bustling Second Ring Road commercial zone, specifically on East Street. This spot is a stone’s throw from the iconic Bell Tower and Drum Tower, making it a perfect pit stop if you’re already exploring the city center. To get here, hop on Metro Line 2 and exit at Bell Tower Station—it’s a 5-minute walk from there. If you’re coming from the airport, a taxi or ride-hailing app like Didi will drop you off directly at the entrance. Bonus: The area is packed with bike-sharing stations, so you can easily pedal over after visiting nearby attractions.

Natural Vibes (Even in the City!)

Don’t let Xi’an’s urban vibes fool you—Camel Herd Headquarters has a surprisingly chill atmosphere. The centerpiece is a sprawling plaza lined with life-sized camel sculptures (over 20!), creating the illusion of a desert oasis in the middle of the city. Lush greenery and fountains surround the statues, which look especially magical at night when they’re lit up. Even though it’s smack dab in a commercial hub, the space feels open and airy, thanks to clever landscaping. Pro tip: Visit on a sunny day, and you’ll catch shadows dancing across the camels—great for Instagram photos!

Cultural Connections

These camels aren’t just random decor. They’re a modern tribute to Xi’an’s history as the starting point of the Silk Road! Back in the day, camel caravans carried goods across deserts, and this spot celebrates that legacy. Each sculpture is unique—some are traditional wooden pack camels, others are stylized art pieces. Look closely, and you’ll spot little details like bells, saddles, and even QR codes that share fun facts about Silk Road trade. It’s a blend of old-school history and techy touches that feels fresh and engaging.

Practical Perks

Camel Herd Headquarters isn’t just about looks—it’s got all the comfy conveniences you’d want. Starting with free entry (always a win!), the plaza is dotted with clean restrooms, shaded seating areas, and vending machines for snacks or cold drinks. Nearby, you’ll find tons of cafes and street food stalls serving up local favorites like biangbiang noodles or meat skewers. If you’re traveling with kids, there’s a small play area with mini slides and climbing structures. Plus, the whole area is wheelchair-friendly, with smooth ramps and wide pathways.

Interactive Fun

This isn’t a “look but don’t touch” kind of place. At Camel Herd Headquarters, you’re encouraged to get creative! Climb onto the backs of the camel statues for photo ops (just be polite to other visitors). Some sculptures have interactive elements, like spinning wheels or sound effects that mimic camel bells. On weekends, local artists sometimes host workshops where you can paint your own mini camel figurine—a quirky souvenir! If you’re lucky, you might catch a flash mob dance performance inspired by Silk Road traditions.

Light Shows & Nighttime Magic

The real show starts after sunset. Camel Herd Headquarters glows with a spectacular light display every evening. Projectors cast moving patterns onto the plaza’s walls, and the camel statues seem to come alive with color. Music plays softly in the background, creating a laid-back vibe perfect for date nights or post-dinner strolls. Trust me—this spot looks totally different at night, and it’s way less crowded than daytime.

Tips for Your Visit

  • Best time to go: Early morning (fewer crowds) or late evening (light show).
  • Pair it with: Walk 10 minutes to the Bell Tower for a historical contrast.
  • Avoid: Midday summer heat—the plaza gets sunny, so bring sunscreen!
  • Hidden gem: Look for the tiny camel statues hidden in the nearby shop windows—local businesses join in the theme!

Whether you’re into history, art, or just snapping cool pics, Camel Herd Headquarters is a must-visit. It’s quirky, family-friendly, and completely free—everything you want from a Xi’an adventure!