Location & Accessibility

Textile City sits in the southeastern corner of Xi’an, nestled along the banks of the Bahe River in Baqiao District. It’s a 30-minute metro ride from downtown Xi’an—just hop on Metro Line 1 and get off at Textile City Station. By bike, you can follow the riverside paths from Bell Tower; it’s a scenic 40-minute ride. If you’re driving, park near the old factory gates (GPS: Baqiao District, Shaanxi Province) and explore on foot.

Natural Scenery: River, Greenery, and Skyline

The Bahe River wraps around Textile City like a silk ribbon, with walking trails lined by willows and flower beds. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom near the old textile workshops, creating a pink-and-red contrast against vintage brick walls. At sunset, the river reflects the city’s industrial cranes—a surprising mix of nature and machinery. For a quieter escape, the nearby Siyuan Park offers lotus ponds and pavilions, perfect for picnics.

Human Stories: From Silk Mills to Art Spaces

Textile City started as a 1950s factory hub, once producing fabric for millions. Today, its red-brick factories host art galleries and cafes. Don’t miss the Textile Museum, where vintage looms and sewing machines tell stories of worker lives. The highlight? A giant mural of silk-weaving elms (a local tree symbolizing resilience) painted across an old warehouse. Street artists also transformed rusty pipes into colorful sculptures—look for the “Dancing Threads” installation near the main road.

Offbeat Attractions: Photo Ops and Hidden Gems

  • Old Factory Chimney: Climb the observation deck for river views. Locals say it’s Xi’an’s “Eiffel Tower” for Instagram shots.
  • Weaving Workshops: Try your hand at traditional shuttle weaving. You’ll leave with a tiny woven scarf—no skills required!
  • Graffiti Alley: A narrow lane covered in vibrant street art. Look for the giant pair of scissors cutting through a wall—it’s a metaphor for “cutting past” old industries.

Practical Tips: Eat, Shop, Rest

  • Food: Snack on jiangcakes (local pepper pancakes) at riverside stalls or sip tea at the Silk Road Cafe, housed in a refurbished factory canteen.
  • Souvenirs: Buy handwoven scarves or retro textile patterns printed on eco-tote bags.
  • Restrooms: Clean public facilities are available near the museum and main plaza. Bring cash for snacks—cards aren’t always accepted.

Immersive Experiences: More Than Just Sightseeing

Join a “Textile Time Travel” tour: guides dress in ’50s work uniforms and explain how workers spun yarn by hand. Kids love the interactive exhibit where they can dye cloth using natural berries. For a unique souvenir, get your name embroidered in Chinese characters—done on antique machines by retired factory staff.

Day-Trip Hacks: Pair with Nearby Spots

After exploring Textile City, walk 15 minutes to the Han Dynasty Site (free outdoor museum) or take a short bus ride to Baqiao Ancient Town for dumplings. Visiting on a weekend? The night market near the river lights up with lanterns and food stalls—save room for hot pot!

Textile City isn’t just about old machines—it’s a living museum where Xi’an’s industrial past meets creative energy. Wear comfy shoes, bring curiosity, and don’t rush. As one local artist put it: “Here, every thread has a story to tell.”