Best Tour of Xian: A Walk In Peaceful Temples In One Day

Tour Itinerary

Today, your tour guide will meet you at the hotel lobby or Xi'an train station, where you'll easily spot the welcome sign reading "Your Way Holiday." Your exciting Xi'an tour will begin shortly after, with the following itinerary:

Your day begins with a comfortable 1.5-hour drive to Famen Temple, located 110 kilometers northwest of Xi'an. This temple is renowned for housing the veritable Finger Bone of Sakyamuni Buddha, making it a key religious site with significant historical value. Despite being a bit further from Xi'an, it’s well worth the visit for its deep cultural and spiritual significance. With a history spanning over 1,700 years, Famen Temple is considered the "Forerunner of the Ziggurat in Central Shaanxi." As you explore, your guide will share rich historical anecdotes, giving you a deeper understanding of the temple’s importance in Buddhism and Chinese history. The Famen Temple Cultural Scenic Area includes four main sections: Temple Gate Square, Foguang Avenue, Famen Temple, and the Namaste Dagoba. Each area offers its own historical and architectural charm. Your guide will provide insightful commentary on the significance of each, explaining the cultural symbols and religious importance, ensuring that your visit is both enriching and memorable. After your exploration, your guide will be happy to answer any further questions and offer recommendations for the rest of your stay in Xi'an, making sure you get the most out of your time at this extraordinary cultural site.

After your exploration of Famen Temple, your guide will take you to a local restaurant in Xi'an to enjoy a delicious lunch. Xi'an is famous for its vibrant food culture, and here you’ll have the chance to taste authentic local dishes. From the world-renowned Xi'an dumplings (Jiaozi) to the biangbiang noodles, known for their wide and chewy texture, the city offers a variety of bold flavors. You can also try roujiamo, a Chinese-style sandwich filled with tender, spiced meat, or the tangy and spicy Yangrou Paomo (bread and lamb soup), a traditional Xi'an specialty. Your guide will help you navigate the local culinary delights, ensuring you have a memorable dining experience that captures the essence of Xi'an’s food scene. After lunch, you’ll continue your tour, feeling both satisfied and energized.

After your visit to Famen Temple, your guide will drive you back to downtown Xi'an for your next stop, Daxingshan Temple. Daxingshan Temple, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in China, is the birthplace of Chinese Tantric Buddhism. Founded during the Western Jin Dynasty, the temple offers a serene space to connect with China's spiritual heritage. Your guide will provide insights into its historical significance and the unique role it played in the development of Tantric Buddhism in China. As you explore, you’ll appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and Qing Dynasty architecture, which has been carefully preserved. The temple features sacred statues, intricate carvings, and Buddhist relics that reflect the deep religious history of the site. Your guide will share stories about the temple’s evolution and significance, allowing you to feel the spiritual energy of the place and deepen your understanding of Chinese Buddhist culture. The peaceful surroundings make this an ideal spot for reflection and gaining insight into China’s spiritual traditions.

The tour continues with a visit to the Daxingshan Temple, one of the oldest and most significant Buddhist temples in China, known as the birthplace of Chinese Tantric Buddhism. The temple features a Mountain Gate, a Devaraja Hall with the iconic figures of the Four Heavenly Kings, the Mahavira Hall, and the Bell and Drum Towers. In the center of the Devaraja Hall, you'll find a wooden statue of Maitreya Buddha, radiating peace and serenity. The Kwan Yin Palace, home to a sandalwood statue of Kwan Yin with a thousand hands, adds a spiritual dimension to your visit. As you explore, your guide will provide detailed explanations of the architectural and spiritual significance of each area, helping you understand the deep cultural roots of this temple.

The temple is an active site where worshippers gather during Buddhist festivals, offering a unique glimpse into the living practice of Buddhism. Around the temple, you’ll find a tranquil park that provides a peaceful environment for reflection and relaxation. Your guide will share insights into the history of the temple and its role in Chinese Buddhism, enriching your experience with fascinating stories and facts.

After your visit to Daxingshan Temple, your guide will drive you back to your hotel in Xi'an or Xi'an Train Station, depending on your preferences. Enjoy your Xi'an Day Trip, filled with spiritual discovery and cultural immersion!

Price Per Person in US Dollars