Article by XIANEASE

Night markets are a key part of life for Xi’an natives, and it seems to us that they’re onto something. There’s no feeling quite like going out for a stroll through a night market—the bustle of the people, the endless rows of food stalls selling local delights and (sometimes) browsing through knickknacks and tchotchkies all make for a unique experience. There are quite a few places like this in the city, with the Muslim District’s night market being the most famous. But tourist season is coming, so if you want the night market experience without elbowing your way through the throngs of people on Huiminjie, perhaps one of these markets will fit the bill.

Dongxin Street Night Market  东新街夜市

If you’ve had your fill of roujiamo and liangpi, but still want to find some tasty local food, head to Dongxin Street. It used to be the largest street market in Xi’an, and has something of a reputation. That reputation has a lot to do with the so-called “Three Amazing Things on Dongxin Street”: Chen Family Hui Cai (陈家烩菜, a kind of soup with vegetables and meatballs), Zheng Family Steamed Buns (郑家包子) and Wang Family Chicken (王家桶子鸡, a kind of stewed whole chicken). There’s some seafood delicacies here too, if that’s what you’re into.

Sajinqiao 洒金桥

Another night market dedicated to sating your appetite, Sajinqiao is popular with graveyard-shift workers and club rats alike for its many after-hours eateries. Want a bowl of hulatang? You got it. Maybe a midnight paomo? No problem. Huiminjie might get all tourists all the time, but Sajinqiao is where the locals flock to cure the late night munchies. Also, if you’ve ever wanted to see a 3AM traffic jam, this is the place to see that.

Xi’an Jiaotong University Night Market 西安交大二村夜市

One great thing about Xi’an is that its dozens of universities attracts people from all over China and the world. Therefore, nearby many universities you can find a wide diversity of things not native to the city—primarily food. A great way to try snacks from around China would be to stop by the night market at Jiaotong University. You’ll get a taste of the exotic, and if you have some friends from out of town, perhaps you can take them for a taste of home.

Dongtaoyuan Night Market  东桃园夜市

Here’s one for you Gaoxinites: the Dongtaoyuan Night Market gets going every night with at least a dozen carts serving up street food staples, like the fried jiamo, fried noodles, dumplings, barbecue and more. You probably feel your arteries hardening already, but that’s half the fun, isn’t it?

Know any other good night markets that make your life more convenient? Let us know at editor@xianease.com