Things to Do in Xian in November

November Weather in Xian

20°C (68°F) High Temp

5°C (41°F) Low Temp

18mm (0.7 inches) Rainfall

65% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect autumn weather with daytime temperatures of 15-20°C (59-68°F) - ideal for walking the 13.7 km (8.5 miles) of city walls without overheating
Crystal clear skies provide stunning visibility for photography at Terracotta Warriors - November has only 3 rainy days with minimal 18mm (0.7 inches) rainfall
Peak persimmon season transforms local markets and restaurants - try fresh persimmon cakes and seasonal hotpots that locals specifically prepare during this harvest period
Shoulder season pricing with 30-40% lower accommodation costs compared to October Golden Week, plus shorter queues at major attractions with wait times under 20 minutes

Considerations

Significant temperature drops after sunset from 20°C (68°F) to 5°C (41°F) require layered clothing and can catch unprepared visitors off-guard
Dry winter air and occasional dust storms from the Gobi Desert create air quality issues 3-4 days per month, particularly affecting those with respiratory sensitivities
Early sunset at 5:30 PM limits outdoor sightseeing time and some outdoor food markets close earlier than summer months

Best Activities in November

Terracotta Army Archaeological Site Tours

November's cool, dry weather is perfect for the 2-3 hour outdoor archaeological site visit. Clear skies provide excellent lighting for photography, and comfortable temperatures mean you can thoroughly explore all three pits without the summer heat exhaustion. The lower humidity preserves the artifacts better, often leading to clearer viewing conditions.

Booking Tip: Book 7-10 days ahead through certified operators for skip-the-line access. Tours typically cost ¥280-450 including transport. Look for operators providing English-speaking archaeologist guides and small groups under 12 people. Peak visiting hours are 9-11 AM for best lighting.

Ancient City Wall Cycling and Walking Tours

The 13.7 km (8.5 miles) city wall circuit is ideal in November's 15-18°C (59-64°F) afternoon temperatures. No risk of summer heat stroke, and the crisp air provides clear views across the city. Cycling takes 90 minutes vs 4+ hours walking. The dry conditions mean better bike maintenance and no muddy paths.

Booking Tip: Bike rental typically ¥45-80 for 2 hours. Book morning slots (8-10 AM) to avoid afternoon winds. Look for operators offering electric bikes for the uphill sections. Most rentals include helmets and basic insurance.

Muslim Quarter Food Walking Tours

November brings seasonal specialties like hot persimmon soup and roasted chestnuts that aren't available other months. Cool weather makes the 2-3 hour walking tours comfortable, and outdoor food stalls operate longer hours. The dry air means less spoilage and fresher ingredients at street vendors.

Booking Tip: Evening tours (5-8 PM) cost ¥180-320 and include 6-8 tastings. Book through operators emphasizing food safety standards and small groups. Avoid tours with more than 15 people as vendors can't accommodate large groups efficiently.

Mount Huashan Hiking Adventures

November offers the best hiking conditions with crisp, clear air and minimal precipitation. Temperatures at 2,155m (7,070 ft) summit range from 5-10°C (41-50°F) - challenging but manageable with proper gear. Clear skies provide spectacular mountain vistas impossible during summer haze or winter snow closures.

Booking Tip: Day trips typically ¥380-650 including cable car options. Book 5-7 days ahead and specify fitness level - operators offer different route difficulties. Early morning departures (6 AM) essential for summit access before afternoon winds.

Tang Dynasty Cultural Performance Tours

Indoor evening entertainment perfect for November's early sunsets and cool nights. The 90-minute performances featuring traditional music, dance, and often include seasonal banquet menus highlighting November's harvest ingredients like fresh persimmons and winter squash.

Booking Tip: Dinner and show packages range ¥280-500. Book weekend performances 10-14 days ahead as they sell out. Look for venues in the Tang West Market area offering English translations and authentic Tang-era cuisine.

Big Wild Goose Pagoda and Fountain Shows

The outdoor fountain shows (every 2 hours from 12 PM-9 PM) are enjoyable in November's mild weather without summer's oppressive heat. The 64m (210 ft) pagoda offers panoramic city views enhanced by November's clear atmospheric conditions and reduced pollution.

Booking Tip: Pagoda entry ¥30-50, fountain shows are free. Best viewing spots fill up 30 minutes before shows. Combine with nearby Shaanxi History Museum visits - book museum tickets online 3 days ahead as they limit daily entries to 6,000 visitors.

November Events & Festivals

Early to Mid November

Persimmon Harvest Festival

Local celebration of the autumn persimmon harvest featuring traditional persimmon cake making, seasonal market stalls, and cultural performances. Markets throughout the city offer 20+ varieties of fresh and dried persimmons unique to this region.

Mid November

Xian International Marathon

Major sporting event that typically closes several city center roads and creates a festive atmosphere. Even non-participants enjoy the cultural program and food stalls. The route passes major historical sites including the city walls.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Layered clothing system - temperatures swing 15°C (27°F) between day and night, pack light sweaters and removable jackets

Comfortable walking shoes with good tread - you'll walk 8-12 km (5-7.5 miles) daily on ancient stone surfaces and modern sidewalks

Dust mask or N95 - occasional desert dust storms affect air quality 3-4 days per month, particularly impacting sensitive individuals

Portable charger - cold weather drains phone batteries 40% faster, essential for navigation and translation apps

SPF 30+ sunscreen - UV index of 5 plus reflection off light-colored ancient stones increases exposure during outdoor site visits

Warm hat and gloves for early morning starts - 5°C (41°F) temperatures common before 9 AM, especially for sunrise photography

Lightweight scarf - protects against dust and wind while remaining culturally appropriate for temple visits

Moisturizer and lip balm - 65% humidity is low for most visitors, skin dries quickly in the continental climate

Cash in small bills - many street food vendors and small shops don't accept cards, need ¥5-20 denominations

Waterproof phone case - though only 3 rainy days expected, dust storms can damage electronics more than light rain

Insider Knowledge

Locals eat hotpot more frequently in November as temperatures drop - head to residential neighborhoods after 7 PM for authentic experiences at half the tourist area prices

The best persimmons are sold at wholesale markets before 8 AM - Chaoyang Men market offers 50+ varieties that disappear by mid-morning as vendors move to retail locations

Book accommodations near subway Line 2 stations - November construction on Line 1 causes delays, but Line 2 provides direct access to most major attractions without surface traffic

Temple visits are most peaceful 7-9 AM when locals pray before work - you'll see authentic religious practices rather than tourist photo-taking that dominates later hours

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating the temperature drop after 5 PM sunset - many visitors dress for comfortable daytime weather then get cold during evening activities

Assuming summer opening hours - many outdoor attractions and food markets close 1-2 hours earlier in November, check current schedules before planning late afternoon visits

Skipping air quality apps - clear skies don't guarantee clean air, download local AQI apps as dust storms appear with little warning and affect outdoor plans significantly