Xian One Day Tour: Traditional Chinese Calligraphy Lesson & Ancient City Wall Bike Tour

Xian One Day Tour Itinerary

In the morning, your friendly and knowledgeable Xi’an local tour guide will pick you up from your hotel in Xi'an or Xi'an train station. You will be greeted with a welcome signage reading "Your Way Holiday." Your adventure begins as you set out for the iconic Xi'an Ancient City Wall, one of the oldest and most complete city walls in China. Your guide will ensure you are comfortable with your bike, which is part of the fun and interactive experience.

The Xi'an Ancient City Wall is not only a stunning landmark but also a testament to China’s military and architectural prowess. It is considered one of the largest and best-preserved ancient military defensive systems in the world. The wall stretches over 13 kilometers (8 miles) in length, standing about 12 meters (40 feet) high. As you cycle along the top of the wall, your guide will share fascinating historical details about the wall’s construction, its role in defending the ancient capital, and how it evolved from the Tang Dynasty to its present form. The South Gate and North Gate are the two main entrances, and you’ll pass these as you cycle, each one a monumental part of the city’s rich history.

After your bike ride, you'll stroll through the vibrant Muslim Quarter, located just behind the Drum Tower. This bustling area is famous not only for its historical significance but also for its mouthwatering food and lively atmosphere. The Muslim Quarter has long been the cultural heart of Xi'an’s Muslim community, and many of its residents are descendants of ancient Silk Road travelers who arrived from the Middle East and Central Asia. Your guide will take you through the narrow alleys, sharing insights into the rich history of this community and pointing out significant landmarks, including the Great Mosque, which blends traditional Chinese and Islamic architectural styles. As you walk through the quarter, you’ll encounter a variety of street foods—each one more tempting than the last. Your guide will be happy to recommend popular dishes, from yangrou paomo (a delicious lamb soup with bread) to xiaolongbao (steamed dumplings). This culinary experience is a highlight of the tour, and your guide will also assist with ordering, making sure you get the best the market has to offer.

As part of your cultural experience, your guide will take you to a renowned local calligraphy master’s studio, where you will have the unique opportunity to try your hand at traditional Chinese calligraphy. This hands-on lesson offers you a fascinating glimpse into this ancient and revered art form, which has been practiced for over two millennia in China.

As part of your cultural experience in Xi'an, your guide will take you to a renowned local calligraphy master's studio, where you will have the unique opportunity to explore the ancient art of traditional Chinese calligraphy. This hands-on lesson offers a fascinating glimpse into a practice that has been revered for over two millennia in China, combining not only art but also philosophy, discipline, and self-expression. 

Upon arrival, the calligraphy master will introduce you to the history and cultural significance of this revered art form, explaining how each stroke is a reflection of balance, fluidity, and breath. You will also be introduced to the essential tools used in calligraphy, including the writing brush, ink, paper, and ink stone—each with its own rich history and specific purpose. 

Under the guidance of the master, you will learn the basic techniques of calligraphy, such as how to properly hold the brush, the importance of balance in each stroke, and how the fluidity of writing is intimately connected to breathing. You'll then have the chance to practice writing your own characters—either your name or a traditional Chinese phrase—on rice paper. The master will provide one-on-one instruction, helping you refine your form and technique as you create your own piece of art.

At the conclusion of your tour, we will provide a comfortable transfer back to your hotel or Xi'an train station, marking the end of your memorable journey. We trust you have enjoyed your experience, and we wish you a smooth and pleasant continuation of your travels.

Price Per Person in US Dollars