Xi'an Antique Market (Shu Yuan Men)

Overview

Shu Yuan Men (Academy Gate Street) is a 570-metre pedestrian street near the South Gate, specialising in calligraphy supplies, antiques, and folk art.

Highlights

• Calligraphy supplies: Brushes, ink stones, rice paper, and seal-carving tools.
• Antiques and curios: Genuine artefacts and reproductions — haggling expected.
• Folk art demonstrations: Shadow puppets, paper cuttings, and clay figurines.

History

A centre for scholarly supplies since the Qing dynasty. Pedestrianised and restored in the early 2000s.

Visitor Tips

• Bargaining: Negotiate on prices, especially for antiques.
• Calligraphy rubbings: Unique souvenirs from ¥10–¥100.
• Duration: 30–60 minutes.