East Street is one of Xi'an's principal shopping thoroughfares — a long avenue of stores, markets, and restaurants running through the heart of the old city. Here's your guide.
East Street (Dong Dajie) runs east from the Bell Tower, one of Xi'an's main commercial avenues. It's lined with department stores, brand shops, and traditional stores.
The street offers everything from international brands to local specialties — clothing, electronics, jewelry, and Xi'an's famous crafts and snacks.
The lanes off East Street hide traditional shops, teahouses, and small restaurants — worth exploring for a more local experience.
East Street and its surroundings are good for dining — from fast food to the city's famous noodles and dumplings. The evening brings out the street food.
East Street is reached from the Bell Tower, the central landmark of Xi'an, served by the metro. It's easily walked from the old city hotels.
The street is open daily, typically 10:00-22:00. Bargaining is possible in the smaller shops but not in the department stores. Combine with a visit to the Bell and Drum Towers.