4-Day Shanghai Xian Essence Tour Explore Terracotta Warriors & Enjoy a Flexible Journey

Summary

DAY 1 Arrive in Xian: Terracotta Warriors
DAY 2 Xian: Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Xian Ancient City Wall, Bell Tower, Muslim Quarter
DAY 3 Xian--Shanghai by flight: Yu Garden, City God Temple, Nanjing Road, Shanghai World Financial Center
DAY 4 Shanghai Departure: Jade Buddha Temple, The Bund

Day 1 Arrive in Xian

Upon your arrival in Xi'an, your dedicated local tour guide will warmly welcome you at the airport with a sign reading "Your Way Holiday." They will assist you with your luggage and ensure a smooth transition from your arrival to the start of your tour. With our professional driver at the wheel, you'll be comfortably transported directly to your first destination. Your guide will provide insightful information about Xi'an's rich history and culture, setting the stage for an engaging and enriching experience. This seamless service is designed to make your arrival as effortless as possible, allowing you to dive straight into your Xi'an adventure with all your needs expertly managed.

Your journey begins with a transfer to the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, often hailed as the "eighth wonder of the world." This museum is renowned for its astonishingly detailed sculptures, which have been celebrated as one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century. The site features a total of 179 burial pits, each offering unique insights into the burial practices and architectural features of the Qin Shi Huang Mausoleum. These pits have greatly enhanced our understanding of ancient Chinese funerary customs. Remarkably, despite the passage of time, none of the pits has escaped damage from fires, adding to the intrigue and historical value of this extraordinary find.

After your visit to the Terracotta Warriors, you'll be comfortably driven to your hotel by our professional driver. Upon arrival, your friendly tour guide will assist you with the check-in process, ensuring that you have everything you need to settle in smoothly. With the rest of the day at your leisure, you are free to explore Xi'an at your own pace. Whether you wish to relax at your hotel, stroll through local neighborhoods, or indulge in some of the city's renowned cuisine, your guide will be available to provide recommendations and answer any questions you may have about the area. This flexible time allows you to enjoy Xi'an in a way that suits your personal interests and pace, with the reassurance that your guide and driver are here to support you.

Day 2 Xian

After breakfast, your tour guide will promptly meet you in the hotel lobby to begin your day. Your first stop is the iconic Big Wild Goose Pagoda, one of China’s most ancient and revered structures. Originally constructed during the Tang Dynasty, this impressive pagoda stands at approximately 60 meters high and features a distinctive five-story brick structure. Remarkably, the pagoda was built entirely with bricks, without the use of cement, showcasing the ingenuity of ancient Chinese architecture. The clear visibility of the seams between the bricks and the prominent "prisms" on each side highlight the meticulous craftsmanship of its builders. The pagoda’s grand presence, with its solemn appearance and minimalist style, serves as a quintessential example of traditional Chinese architecture, reflecting the historical and cultural significance of this architectural marvel.

Next, you'll be driven to the Xi'an Ancient City Wall, a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site. This impressive structure is not only one of the oldest and largest city walls in China but also one of the best preserved, offering a comprehensive glimpse into ancient Chinese defensive architecture. Originally built during the Tang Dynasty, the wall was later enhanced through extensive construction efforts, reflecting the grandeur of feudal military fortifications. Today, the City Wall stands as a prominent landmark in Xi'an, showcasing the sophisticated rampart design of the time. Visitors can take a leisurely half-day walk around the wall or opt for a cycling tour to fully appreciate its expansive scale and intricate construction, making it a must-see attraction for those interested in China's rich historical heritage.

Lunch will be arranged at a local Chinese restaurant, where you can enjoy authentic and delicious regional cuisine. Your tour guide will provide expert recommendations to help you navigate the menu, ensuring you experience the best dishes that reflect the rich culinary heritage of Xi'an. Whether you're interested in trying traditional specialties or exploring local favorites, your guide will offer personalized suggestions to enhance your dining experience. This tailored approach ensures that your meal is not only satisfying but also a delightful part of your cultural journey.

Next, you'll visit the Bell Tower, an iconic symbol of Xi'an with a rich historical legacy. Dating back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), this architectural marvel was originally used to signal the time each day: the bell rang at dawn and the drum sounded at dusk. Situated at the heart of Xi'an, the Bell Tower stands at the crossroads of the city's four main roads, offering a central vantage point within the city walls. From the tower’s upper level, you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of Xi'an’s bustling streets and surrounding area. Inside, you'll find an array of fascinating cultural relics, including a massive ancient bell, inscribed steles, and ornate couplets hanging on the columns. These artifacts not only highlight the historical significance of the Bell Tower but also offer a deeper insight into the city's rich cultural heritage.

To conclude your day, your guide will escort you to the bustling Muslim Quarter, Xi'an's most famous food street. This vibrant area, rich with over 1,000 years of history, is a feast for the senses. Here, you’ll wander through streets paved with gray flagstones, surrounded by Ming-style buildings, and experience a lively mix of Islamic culture and local cuisine. Sample a variety of northwestern Chinese delicacies, including mutton soup with crude pancakes, cold rice noodles, Chinese hamburgers, and Qishan noodles. The street is also renowned for its beef and mutton dishes, with roast beef being a particular highlight. This is the perfect spot to immerse yourself in Xi'an's unique culinary and cultural atmosphere.

After a day filled with cultural and culinary exploration, your guide will drive you back to your hotel in Xi'an. Throughout the day, our dedicated guide has shared their expertise and ensured your comfort, while our professional driver has navigated the city's roads, making your journey smooth and enjoyable. As you return to your hotel, you can reflect on the day's experiences and unwind. Thank you for joining us, and we hope you’ve enjoyed every moment of your Xi'an adventure. We look forward to assisting you with future travel plans.

Day 3 Xian-Shanghai by Flight

In the early morning, our driver will promptly pick you up at your hotel lobby and ensure a smooth transfer to Xi'an airport for your flight to Shanghai. Upon arrival in Shanghai, you'll be warmly greeted by our local tour guide, holding a welcome signage "Your Way Holiday," ready to assist you with your luggage and any needs. Your Shanghai adventure begins with the attentive guidance of our knowledgeable tour guide and the reliable service of our driver, both committed to making your journey comfortable and enriching right from the start.

Your first destination in Shanghai is the enchanting Yuyuan Garden, widely regarded as the finest private garden in the city and one of the best in southeast China. With a history spanning over 400 years, this garden was originally created by Pan Yunduan as a place of joy and tranquility for his parents and relatives. Yuyuan Garden offers a glimpse into Shanghai's rich past, featuring beautifully designed pavilions, halls, rockeries, ponds, and cloisters, each with its own distinct charm. Adjacent to the garden is the bustling Yuyuan Bazaar, a vibrant marketplace where you can explore a variety of local street foods, souvenirs, and cultural treasures, offering a perfect blend of history and modern-day Shanghai.

Next, you'll visit the Shanghai City God Temple, a significant cultural and spiritual landmark nestled within the lively area surrounding Yuyuan Garden. This folk temple, with a history spanning over 600 years, is more than just an architectural marvel; it holds a deep-rooted significance in the lives of Shanghai's residents. The temple is not only renowned for its historical and cultural value but also for being home to one of the most celebrated ancient food streets in the city. The religious festivals held here are deeply intertwined with local traditions, making them important events for the entire community, reflecting the temple’s enduring influence on Shanghai's cultural fabric.

In the afternoon, your exploration continues with a visit to Nanjing Road, widely recognized as China's premier commercial hub. Renowned as a shopping paradise, Nanjing Road also offers a unique opportunity to stroll through the heart of Shanghai and soak in its vibrant, modern atmosphere. Most notably, East Nanjing Road, a pedestrian-only stretch between People's Square and the Bund, is where you'll find the street buzzing with energy during the day. As evening falls, the street transforms into a dazzling display of neon lights, adding a touch of magic to the experience. Lined with over 360 malls, department stores, specialty shops, restaurants, and cultural venues, Nanjing Road is a must-see destination that perfectly captures the essence of Shanghai's dynamic urban life.

Your final destination is the iconic "Eye of Shanghai"—the Shanghai World Financial Center (SWFC). Rising majestically in the Pudong district, this architectural marvel designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox and developed by Mori Building Company is a striking symbol of modern Shanghai. As you enter the SWFC, you'll be transported to the Sky Gate, where you'll enjoy an immersive visual experience. The observation decks provide breathtaking panoramic views of Shanghai's skyline and the Huangpu River, illuminated by the city's vibrant neon lights. Inside, high-tech multimedia displays offer a fascinating journey through Shanghai's rapid transformation, complemented by the world's most realistic miniature city model, vividly illustrating the city's evolution from its historical roots to its cutting-edge present.

At the end of your unforgettable Shanghai tour, your private driver will transfer you back to your Shanghai hotel. As you reflect on the day's highlights—from the serene beauty of Yuyuan Garden and the bustling energy of Nanjing Road to the awe-inspiring views from the Shanghai World Financial Center—our driver will ensure a comfortable and seamless journey. Relax and unwind as you return to your hotel, savoring the memories of a day filled with the rich history, vibrant culture, and modern allure of Shanghai.

Day 4 Shanghai Departure

In the morning, after enjoying a delicious breakfast at your hotel, your local guide and driver will be ready to greet you in the lobby to continue your Shanghai highlight tour. The first stop is the renowned Jade Buddha Temple, also known as the Shanghai Yufo Temple. This sacred site is one of Shanghai's most significant Buddhist temples, revered for its two exquisite jade Buddha statues. The temple's name is derived from these statues, which were brought from Burma by Abbot Hui Gen. The impressive seated Buddha stands nearly 1.95 meters tall, and the smaller reclining Buddha adds to the temple's serene ambiance. As you explore the temple's tranquil grounds, you'll gain insight into its rich spiritual heritage and the artistry of these precious jade sculptures.

The Jade Buddha Temple, a significant Buddhist landmark in Shanghai, features the Terauchi Axis Line leading to key areas such as the King Hall, Main Hall, and the Jade Buddha Floor. The Abbot’s Room and the Wofotang on either side offer glimpses into the temple’s rich spiritual heritage. The Kwun Yam Temple, dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy, adds to the temple's serene atmosphere. During Buddhist festivals, the temple’s unique charm is highlighted by floating incense, glowing candles, and a vibrant yet peaceful ambiance amidst the bustling city.

Next, you'll be driven to the iconic Bund, a symbol of Shanghai's rich history and architectural grandeur. Often described as “a Gallery of World Architecture,” the Bund showcases a stunning array of styles, including Gothic, Baroque, Romanesque, Classicism, and Renaissance, all harmoniously integrated into a cohesive skyline. These historic buildings, constructed between the 1920s and 1940s, are beautifully illuminated by floodlights, offering a glimpse into Shanghai's opulent past. Nicknamed "The Oriental Wall Street," the Bund remains a vibrant testament to Shanghai's former splendor. By night, it transforms into a dazzling spectacle, with glittering lights that capture the city's dynamic essence and charm.

After a delightful lunch, your private driver will transfer you to Shanghai International Airport, ensuring a comfortable and timely journey. Your tour guide will assist you with check-in and answer any final questions you may have, ensuring a smooth departure process. As you fly back home, you'll carry with you the memorable experiences of your 4-day Xian and Shanghai adventure. From the ancient wonders of Xi'an to the vibrant modernity of Shanghai, we hope your journey has been as enriching as it was enjoyable. Safe travels, and we look forward to welcoming you on your next exploration!

Price Per Person in US Dollars