5 Days of Historical and Cultural Exploration: Xi'an, Datong, and Beijing by Bullet Train

Summary

DAY 1 Arrive in Xian: Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Muslim Quarter
DAY 2 Xian--Datong by Train: Terracotta Warriors, Xian Ancient City Wall, Take train to Datong
DAY 3 Datong: Yungang Grottoes, Hanging Temple, Wooden Pagoda
DAY 4 Datong--Beijing by Train: Huayan Temple, Take train to Beijing
DAY5 Beijing Departure: Mutianyu Great Wall

Day 1 Arrive in Xian

Today, upon your arrival at Xi'an High-Speed Railway Station, our dedicated local tour guide will greet you at the exit with a warm smile and a personalized welcome signage reading "Your Way Holiday." Your tour begins the moment you step out, as your guide and experienced driver work together to ensure a smooth and comfortable start to your journey. With the guide's insightful commentary and the driver's attentive service, you'll be introduced to the rich history and vibrant culture of Xi'an right from the outset, making your experience both seamless and enriching.

For lunch, you will be taken to a local Chinese restaurant renowned for its authentic Xi'an cuisine. Our knowledgeable guide will not only assist in making sure you have a comfortable dining experience but will also provide recommendations on must-try dishes. Expect to savor traditional Xi'an specialties such as hand-pulled noodles and savory meat pies, all while the guide shares fascinating insights into the culinary culture of the region. This meal is designed to give you a true taste of Xi'an, enhancing your overall cultural immersion.

After lunch, you will visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, an iconic landmark of Xi'an and a revered Buddhist site with a history spanning over 1,300 years. This architectural marvel, built without cement and constructed with layers of bricks, showcases a blend of traditional Chinese and Indian Buddhist design elements. Despite its simplicity, the pagoda's design is a remarkable example of Chinese architecture. Surrounding the pagoda, you'll find two spacious squares and three beautifully landscaped gardens that highlight Chinese style and culture. The stunning architecture, breathtaking scenery, and rich historical significance make the Big Wild Goose Pagoda a must-visit destination for a truly immersive experience in China's heritage.

Next, you'll head to the vibrant Muslim Quarter, a bustling 500-meter street that serves as the heart of Xi'an's Muslim community. This lively area is famous for its array of authentic hand-made Muslim foods, offering a tantalizing taste of local specialties like lamb skewers, beef noodles, and freshly baked flatbreads. The street is also lined with charming shops where you can explore unique Shaanxi Province products and find exquisite souvenirs. As you wander through the lively market, you'll experience a rich tapestry of flavors and culture, making the Muslim Quarter a must-visit for anyone eager to delve into the local culinary scene and cultural heritage.

After exploring the vibrant Muslim Quarter, you will be driven back to your hotel by our attentive driver. Upon arrival, our guide will assist you with the check-in process, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience. Once you're settled, you can unwind and relax in the comfort of your hotel. Throughout this transition, both our guide and driver are dedicated to providing you with excellent service, making sure every detail of your arrival and accommodation is taken care of, so you can enjoy a well-deserved rest after your enriching day of exploration.

Day 2 Xian to Datong by Train

After breakfast, your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby and escort you to the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, an unmissable highlight of your Xi'an visit. This awe-inspiring site houses the Terracotta Army, a vast collection of life-sized sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China. Crafted as funerary art and buried with the emperor between 210 and 209 BCE, these statues were intended to protect him in the afterlife. The museum, officially known as Emperor Qin Shi Huang's Mausoleum Site Museum, provides an immersive experience into the ancient grandeur of the Qin Empire (221–207 BCE), showcasing intricate details of the emperor’s life and the expansive scale of this historic project. As you explore the museum’s extensive excavation pits, you'll be captivated by the sheer scale and historical significance of this remarkable archaeological find.

After your visit to the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, you'll be driven back to downtown Xi'an to explore the Ancient City Wall. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this impressive structure dates back to the Ming Dynasty and was originally built as a military defense system to protect the city. Spanning approximately 14 kilometers in length and standing 12 meters high, the City Wall is one of the oldest, largest, and best-preserved fortifications in China, showcasing the complete features of feudal rampart architecture. Although the current wall is an enhancement of an earlier Tang Dynasty structure, it retains its historical charm and grandeur. Biking around the City Wall offers a unique perspective, allowing you to enjoy the striking contrast between ancient culture and modern Xi'an. As you cycle along the ramparts, gates, and watchtowers built in the 13th century, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the historical significance and architectural beauty of this remarkable site.

The final stop on your tour is the Bell Tower, a prominent symbol of Xi'an and one of the grandest of its kind in China. This majestic structure stands close to 40 meters high and is renowned for its impressive brick and timber construction. The Bell Tower, with its square base covering an area of 1,377 square meters, showcases exquisite architectural craftsmanship from the Ming Dynasty. Inside, you'll find several large bronze-cast bells dating back to the Tang Dynasty, adding to the tower's historical significance. Originally built as a timekeeping and signaling device, the Bell Tower offers a stunning view of the city from its elevated vantage point. Its grandeur and historical depth make it a captivating finale to your exploration of Xi'an's rich heritage.

Finally, you'll be driven to Xi'an Train Station by our attentive driver, who will ensure a smooth and comfortable transfer. Our guide will assist you with any last-minute details, including helping you with your luggage and providing guidance on finding your train. As you embark on your overnight journey to Datong, you'll settle into your train cabin, where you can rest and rejuvenate for the next leg of your adventure. Both the guide and driver are committed to making sure your transition to the train is seamless, so you can enjoy a restful journey and arrive in Datong ready for your next exploration.

Day 3 Datong

Upon your arrival in Datong, our friendly guide will be waiting for you at the train station exit, holding a welcome signage reading "Your Way Holiday." Embracing our travel philosophy of "Travel like a local," our guide will provide a warm and personalized greeting to ensure you feel immediately at home. With a deep understanding of Datong's local culture and attractions, our guide will assist you with your luggage and offer insightful tips about the city. Their expertise will help you navigate the area smoothly, ensuring a seamless transition from your train journey to the exciting experiences that await you in Datong. Our commitment to attentive service means you can relax and enjoy your trip, knowing that every detail is taken care of with a local touch.

First, you'll be driven to the Yungang Grottoes, an extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage Site and a key cultural relic preservation unit. Recognized for its historical and artistic significance, the Yungang Grottoes, inscribed as a 5A level Chinese Tourist Area in 2007, feature 53 grottoes carved into the north cliff of Wuzhou Mountain. This impressive site houses around 1,000 niches and approximately 51,000 statues, offering a stunning collection of cave art that merges traditional Chinese styles with influences from Greek and Indian art. As you explore these ancient carvings, you'll be immersed in a rich tapestry of cultural and artistic history.

Next, you'll visit the Hanging Temple, an extraordinary architectural marvel perched 75 meters (246 feet) above the ground on a sheer cliff near Mount Heng in Hunyuan County. With a history spanning over 1,500 years, this iconic temple is renowned for its breathtaking location and unique design. The Hanging Temple stands out not only for its dramatic cliffside setting but also as the only existing temple in China that harmoniously integrates the three traditional Chinese religions: Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. As you explore this remarkable site, you'll marvel at the temple's intricate wooden construction, ingeniously suspended on the cliff face, and experience the serene beauty of its surroundings. The Hanging Temple, alongside the Yungang Grottoes, represents a significant cultural and historical treasure in the Datong area, offering a profound glimpse into China's rich religious and architectural heritage.

Afterward, you'll be driven to Yingxian County to explore the renowned Wooden Pagoda, a true marvel of ancient architecture. As the only large wooden pagoda still standing in China and the tallest among ancient wooden structures globally, it holds the prestigious title of the 'First Pagoda in the World.' This extraordinary structure, revered for its historical and architectural significance, stands as the oldest and highest wooden building in China. Its unique octagonal tiers and specially designed lightning rod have enabled it to withstand centuries of weather, earthquakes, and lightning strikes, preserving its integrity and charm. Now classified as a key national cultural relic, the Wooden Pagoda remains a testament to timeless craftsmanship, continuing to captivate visitors with its elegant, rustic beauty.

After your sightseeing, you'll be driven back to your hotel in Datong by our dedicated driver, ensuring a comfortable and seamless journey. Throughout the drive, our guide will be on hand to provide any additional information or assistance you might need, making sure all your questions are answered and your experience is as smooth as possible. Whether you wish to discuss the day's highlights or simply relax, both our guide and driver are committed to providing exceptional service, so you can unwind and prepare for the next day of your adventure.

Day 4 Datong--Beijing by Train

In the morning, your guide will take you to visit Huayan Temple, a significant site for the Huayan or Flower Garland school of Buddhism, a Mahayana Buddhist tradition that first flourished in China during the Tang dynasty. This school of thought, rooted in the teachings of the Avatamsaka Sutra, represents the crowning glory of a Buddha's profound understanding of ultimate reality. The Huayan tradition, known as Hwaeom in Korea and Kegon in Japan, also had a strong influence on Chan Buddhism, making the temple a key site for understanding the deep philosophical and spiritual heritage of this Buddhist school.

After lunch, you'll be driven to the train station by our attentive driver, who will ensure a smooth and comfortable transfer. As you board the train for your approximately 6-hour journey to Beijing, you can relax knowing that all the details have been taken care of. Upon your arrival in Beijing, your dedicated guide will be waiting for you at the exit of the train station, holding a personalized welcome signage reading "Your Way Holiday." With the guide’s warm welcome and the driver’s reliable service, you'll be promptly transferred to your hotel, ensuring a seamless and stress-free arrival in Beijing. Our team is committed to making sure every aspect of your journey is handled with care, allowing you to enjoy a smooth transition and settle into your hotel with ease.

DAY 5 Beijing Departure

In the early morning, you'll be transferred to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, a journey that takes around 1 hour. As one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Great Wall is an iconic symbol of China, and Mutianyu is a less-crowded, well-preserved section that offers a unique and tranquil experience. This section of the Wall once served as a northern barrier defending the capital and the imperial tombs. Known for its stunning natural surroundings, including dense woods and lush pastures that change with the seasons, Mutianyu provides excellent opportunities for sightseeing and photography. Enjoy the breathtaking views and capture memories from various angles, making your visit to the Great Wall a truly unforgettable part of your journey.

After lunch, you'll be transferred to either the airport or the high-speed railway station, depending on your travel plans. Our attentive guide will assist you throughout this process, ensuring a smooth and stress-free departure. They will help with your luggage, provide guidance on check-in procedures, and offer any final tips or information you might need for your journey. With our dedicated service, you can relax knowing that every detail of your transfer is taken care of, allowing you to focus on your trip home and reflect on the wonderful experiences you've had.

Price Per Person in US Dollars