Xian Day Trips: Full Day Xi'an Tour of Terracotta Warriors and Banpo Neolithic Village Museum

Summary

Xi'an, the capital of Shaanxi Province, is one of the oldest cities in China as well as the oldest of the Four Great Ancient Capitals, having held the position under several of the most important dynasties in Chinese history, including Western Zhou, Qin, Western Han, Sui, and Tang. Xi'an is the starting point of the Silk Road and home to the Terracotta Army of Emperor Qin Shi Huang. Known as the leading city of China's Western Development Drive Program since 1990s, Xian is an important economic, cultural, industrial and educational center of the central-northwest region, providing visitors with modern and convenient facilities. 

Tour Itinerary

To start your day, our Xi’an tour guide will greet you at your hotel lobby or at the Xi’an train station, holding a welcome sign that reads “Your Way Holiday.” Your guide will ensure a smooth and hassle-free beginning to your tour, handling all the logistics and providing insightful commentary as you embark on your full day of exploring Xi’an. From the moment you meet, you’ll benefit from their expertise and local knowledge, setting the stage for an enriching and enjoyable experience throughout the city.

Your first stop will be the Terra-cotta Warriors and Horses Museum, often hailed as "the Eighth Wonder of the World." This extraordinary site dates back to the late 3rd century BCE and is closely linked to Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China, who unified the country in 221 BCE. The museum reveals an astonishing array of sculptures, including over 179 burial pits discovered within the emperor’s mausoleum complex. Each pit contains meticulously crafted figures of soldiers, horses, and chariots, designed to protect the emperor in his afterlife. This massive project reflects the grandeur of the Qin Dynasty and the emperor’s desire for eternal guardianship. Notably, despite the extensive exploration and the passage of time, none of these ancient pits have survived fire damage, underscoring their remarkable preservation and the profound historical significance of this site.

For lunch, you'll enjoy a meal at a local Chinese restaurant, where you’ll have the opportunity to savor the rich flavors of Xi'an cuisine. If you have specific dietary preferences, such as vegan or vegetarian requirements, or any other special needs, please let your tour guide know. They will be more than happy to recommend dishes that suit your tastes and dietary restrictions. Xi'an is renowned for its diverse culinary offerings, from the spicy and savory biang biang noodles to the aromatic yangrou paomo (mutton stew with flatbread). You might also explore local specialties like roujiamo, a flavorful meat-filled bun, or pita bread soaked in lamb soup. Your guide will ensure that your lunch experience is both delicious and tailored to your needs, making it a memorable part of your day.

In the afternoon, you'll visit the Banpo Neolithic Village Museum, China’s first museum dedicated to prehistoric excavation sites. Named after the initial discovery of this ancient settlement in Yangshuo, the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into a typical Neolithic matrilinear clan community. The site reveals how early inhabitants used wooden and stone tools for subsistence, with women playing a central role in pottery-making, spinning, and family care, while men focused on fishing. This well-preserved site provides invaluable insights into early Chinese society, showcasing reconstructed houses that closely mimic the Neolithic dwellings. The museum is not only a testament to China’s rich cultural heritage but also an essential resource for understanding the evolution of primitive societies. As you explore the exhibits and the reconstructed village, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the daily lives and social structures of one of the earliest human communities in China.

Banpo Culture dates back approximately 6,000 years, around 5000–3000 BCE. Discovered in 1953, the Banpo archaeological site reveals the remains of several well-organized Neolithic settlements, carbon-dated to between 5600 and 6700 years ago. This site is associated with the Yangshao Culture, and archaeological sites with similarities to the early phase at Banpo are categorized as part of the "Banpo phase" of the Yangshao culture. The residents of Banpo lived in circular houses constructed from mud and wood, featuring thatched roofs supported by timber poles. Many of these semi-subterranean dwellings had floors set about one meter below the ground surface. The site also includes communal burial areas, reflecting the social and cultural practices of the time. The well-preserved remnants offer a rare and valuable glimpse into the daily lives and communal organization of one of the earliest known Neolithic cultures in China.

After your visit to the Banpo Neolithic Village Museum, your guide and driver will ensure a seamless conclusion to your Xi'an tour. They will transport you comfortably back to your hotel in downtown Xi'an or to the Xi'an train station, depending on your departure plans. Throughout the journey, your guide will be available to answer any last-minute questions, provide additional recommendations for your stay, or assist with any final arrangements. Meanwhile, your driver will navigate the route with care, ensuring a smooth and relaxing ride. This attentive service ensures that you end your cultural exploration of Xi'an on a high note, reflecting on the day's enriching experiences as you make your way to your next destination.

Price Per Person in US Dollars