5-Day Xian Yanan Red Road Tour

Summary

DAY 1: Xian: Terracotta Warriors, Ancient City Wall, Muslim Quarter
DAY 2 Xian: Shaanxi History Museum, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Bell Tower
DAY 3 Xian--Yan'an by vehicle: Yangjialing Revolution Headquarters Site, Zaoyuan Revolutiona Headquarters Site 
DAY 4 Yan'an: Yan'an Revolution Museum, Treasure Pagoda, Hukou Waterfall
DAY 5 Xian Departure

Day 1 Xian

In the morning, our local Xi'an tour guide will pick you up at the exit of Xi'an train station or your hotel lobby in Xi'an, you will find a welcome signage "Your Way Holiday. " One day in Xi'an including the following attractions:

Your adventure kicks off with a visit to the legendary Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, renowned as the "Eighth Wonder of the World." Step back in time as you encounter this extraordinary archaeological site, where thousands of life-sized terracotta soldiers, chariots, and horses stand guard in their eternal duty from the 3rd century BC. Discovered in 1974, these incredible figures were part of Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s grand burial complex. With your guide leading the way, you'll gain fascinating insights into the rich history and significance of this ancient army. They’ll expertly navigate you through the museum’s various sections, ensuring you capture every striking detail and story. Marvel at the artistry and preservation of each statue, intricately crafted to accompany the emperor into the afterlife. Your guide will share compelling anecdotes and historical context, making your exploration of this monumental site both enlightening and unforgettable.

After your captivating visit to the Terracotta Warriors, enjoy a delightful local lunch that highlights Xi'an’s renowned cuisine. Your guide will introduce you to a range of traditional dishes showcasing Shaanxi flavors. Savor Biang Biang noodles, known for their wide, hand-pulled strands and spicy kick; Roujiamo, a savory Chinese-style hamburger packed with tender meat; and Yangrou Paomo, a hearty lamb soup served with pita bread. Each dish offers a taste of Xi'an’s culinary heritage, with your guide providing insights into the ingredients and cultural significance. This flavorful lunch enhances your exploration, making your Xi'an experience even more memorable.

Your next stop is th e iconic Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a cherished symbol of Xi'an’s rich history. Renowned for its significance in Buddhism, this ancient pagoda draws visitors with its elegant yet simple architectural style. Originally built to house sutras and Buddhist figurines brought from India by the renowned monk Xuanzang, the pagoda stands as a testament to both historical and spiritual heritage. Today, it is celebrated not only for its architectural beauty but also for its deep connection to Buddhist culture and significant historical figures. Serving as a landmark of Xi’an and a prominent site for welcoming distinguished guests, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda continues to be a revered gem in China's architectural and cultural landscape.

After the tour, your knowledgeable guide and professional driver will ensure a smooth and comfortable journey back to your hotel. 

Day 2 Xian

After breakfast, you will be driven to Xi'an downtown to visit the renowned Xi'an Ancient City Wall. 

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic wall dates back to the 14th century during the Ming Dynasty, constructed under Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang's reign. Originally built as a military defense system to protect the city, it stands as one of the oldest, largest, and best-preserved city walls in China. The Ancient City Wall offers a comprehensive view of traditional rampart architecture, showcasing the grandeur and strategic significance of ancient Chinese fortifications. Throughout your visit, our knowledgeable guide will provide detailed insights into the wall's history and architecture, ensuring you gain a deeper understanding of its significance and making your exploration both informative and enjoyable.

Next, we will visit the iconic Bell Tower, one of Xi'an’s most famous landmarks and a symbol of the city’s rich history. Standing proudly in the center of the city, the Bell Tower was originally built during the Ming Dynasty and covers an area of 3,000 square meters. It can be accessed through several ancient gates, and from the top, you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the surrounding city. At its base, there is a vibrant square where locals and tourists gather, with bustling markets offering souvenirs, local snacks, and traditional crafts. As you explore, our expert guide will share fascinating stories about the Bell Tower’s historical significance, its role in Xi'an’s ancient defense system, and the cultural symbolism it holds today, ensuring you gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of this remarkable historical site.

Following your visit to the Bell Tower, we will stop for a delicious lunch at a local restaurant where you can enjoy traditional Xi'an dishes. Savor the famous biangbiang noodles, hand-pulled and topped with spicy chili sauce, the savory roujiamo (Chinese burger) with tender braised meat, and the hearty yangrou paomo, a lamb stew with crumbled flatbread. These dishes offer a taste of Xi'an’s rich culinary heritage, and the meal will be a perfect opportunity to relax and recharge before continuing your tour.

Your final stop is the vibrant Muslim Quarter, the largest of its kind in China, covering 31 hectares (76 acres) and home to around 22,000 residents. Situated in the northwest corner of Xi'an's Old City, it can be accessed through historic gates such as St. Stephen's Gate (Lion's Gate), Herod's Gate, and Damascus Gate. At the heart of the quarter lies the lively shuk, a labyrinth of ancient streets and alleyways that have been thriving for over a thousand years. Here, you'll discover a bustling marketplace overflowing with an array of spices, textiles, meats, vegetables, and both local and tourist delicacies, offering an immersive experience into Xi'an's rich culinary traditions and cultural heritage. As you explore, our expert guide will provide fascinating insights into the history, architecture, and customs of the area, helping you uncover the unique stories and flavors of this iconic destination for a truly unforgettable experience.

After the tour, your expert guide and skilled driver will make sure you have a smooth and relaxing trip back to your hotel. 

Day 3 Xian to Hukou Waterfall

After breakfast at the hotel, your guide will transfer you to Yan'an(around 4hrs). Yan'an is a prefecture-level city in the Shanbei region of Shaanxi province, China, bordering Shaanxi to the east and Gansu to the west. It was near the endpoint of the Long March, and was the birthplace of the Chinese revolution and the establishment of New China. And became the center of the Chinese Communist revolution from 1936 to 1948.

After lunch, first visit the Yangjialing Revolution Headquarters Site. The Yangjialing Revolutionary Site is located about three kilometers away from the northwest of Yan'an city. There are sites of Mao Zedong, Zhou Enlai, Liu Shaoqi and Zhu De, as well as the general office of the Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party. Here you can view the Great Auditorium, Office Building and a raw of Yaodongs (artificial caves or dugouts carved into hillsides) which were the residences of Chairman Mao, Premier Zhou Enlai and some other Chinese Communist Party's early leaders, as well as many relics of much historical importance.

Then move to Zaoyuan Revolutiona Headquarters Site. Zaoyuan was originally the manor of a warlord in northern Shaanxi. it was rebuilt and expanded from 1941 and completed in 1943. Over 20 cave houses and bungalow houses were built as well as one auditorium. The Central Department of Social Affairs (CDSA) and other departments of the CPC moved here in early 1939, followed by the Central Secretariat. It is the former residence of many leaders, including Mao Zedong, Zhu De, Liu Shaoqi and Zhou En lai.

After the sightseeing, drive you back to your hotel in downtown Yan'an.

Day 4 Yan'an to Xian

After breakfast, your tour guide will meet you at your hotel lobby and continue to your memorable tour.

First drive you to visit the Yan'an Revolution Museum. It is a memorial museum exhibiting cultural relics of the revolution and showing the history of the revolutionary activities of Yan’an under the leadership of the Communist Party of China. Its total exhibition area is 5,500 square meters and it mainly exhibits the 13-year glorious history between October of 1935 and March of 1948, when the CPC Central Committee led the Chinese revolution in Yan’an and the region of Shaanxi, Gansu and Ningxia.

Continue to visit the Treasure Pagoda, Yan'an most prominent landmark where you are able to have an bird-eye view of the city of Yan'an.

After lunch, finally visit the Hukou Waterfalls Scenic Area. Hukou Waterfalls is located about 140km in the southeast of Yanan (Hukou Waterfalls is under the administration of Yanan). Hukou Waterfalls is the largest waterfall on the Yellow River, the second largest waterfall in China (after the Huangguoshu Waterfall), is located at the intersection of Shanxi Province. Hukou Waterfall is regarded as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in China and the largest yellow waterfalls in the world. 

After the tour ends, drive you to your hotel.

Day 5 Xian Departure

Enjoy another day of free time in Xi’an to explore at your leisure or revisit your favorite spots. This flexibility allows you to personalize your experience before your departure. Later, prepare for your journey home, reflecting on the historical wonders and unique experiences that have made your Xi’an adventure truly unforgettable. Safe travels, and may the memories of this incredible journey stay with you always.

If you have any changes to the itinerary, please don’t hesitate to let us know. We are here to assist you with adjustments as needed and will provide a revised quote once the itinerary is confirmed. Thank you!

Please let us know if you would like to proceed with these arrangements. We will provide the quotation accordingly once we confirmend the itinerary.  Thanks! 

Price Per Person in US Dollars