One Day Xian Tour: Historical Xian Essential Sites with Terracotta Warriors

Xian Day Tour Itinerary

Your tour guide will greet you at your downtown Xi'an hotel with a "Your Way Holiday" welcome sign to start your day. From there, you’ll be transferred to the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, a 40-minute drive away. Known as "the Eighth Wonder of the World," this museum is celebrated for its impressive terracotta sculptures, regarded as one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century. The museum features 179 burial pits with various shapes and features, providing deep insights into the burial practices of the Qin Dynasty. Remarkably, none of these pits has survived being burned, emphasizing the exceptional preservation of this ancient marvel. If you're arriving from Xi'an train station or airport, your guide will also assist with pick-up and transfer to your hotel.

After your visit to the Terracotta Warriors, your guide will take you to a local Chinese restaurant nearby, where you can enjoy a delicious lunch. Recommended dishes include tender Shaanxi-style dumplings, spicy and flavorful hand-pulled noodles, and juicy, stir-fried lamb with cumin. Your guide will be on hand to ensure you have a pleasant dining experience and can cater to any dietary preferences you may have. This is an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich flavors of Shaanxi cuisine before continuing with the rest of your tour. Please note, lunch will be at your own expense.

In the afternoon, your journey continues with a visit to the serene Big Wild Goose Pagoda and the Xi’an Museum. Unlike its larger counterpart, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, the Small Wild Goose Pagoda offers a peaceful retreat and is renowned for its refined Tang Dynasty architecture, representing the fusion of Buddhism and Chinese culture during this period. This tranquil site is a hidden gem, often overshadowed but equally significant in its cultural importance. The adjacent Xi’an Museum showcases the city’s rich history through its diverse collection of artifacts, beautifully complementing the pagoda’s spiritual heritage. Together, these two sites offer a quiet reflection on Xi’an’s historical depth, blending ancient architecture with cultural exhibits in a serene garden setting.

Later, your tour will take you to the magnificent Xi’an Ancient City Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most impressive and well-preserved city walls in China. Constructed during the 14th century under the reign of Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang in the Ming Dynasty, the wall served as a crucial military defense system to protect the city. Stretching approximately 14 kilometers in length and standing 12 meters high, it offers panoramic views of the city and a vivid reminder of Xi’an’s ancient strategic importance. The wall is an enhancement of the original Tang Dynasty structure, reflecting the architectural sophistication of feudal China. As you walk or bike along the wide, elevated ramparts, you’ll experience a unique blend of ancient military prowess and modern urban vibrance, all while admiring the watchtowers, gates, and fortifications that have stood the test of time.

The final stop on your tour is the bustling Muslim Quarter, Xi'an's most iconic food street, offering a vibrant blend of flavors, culture, and history. This lively area has been a hub of Islamic culture for over 1,000 years and is home to a thriving Hui Muslim community. As you stroll along the flagstone-paved streets lined with Ming-style architecture, you'll be immersed in the rich aromas of mouthwatering dishes. Highlights include the famous crude pancake in mutton soup (Yangrou Paomo), cold rice noodles (Liangpi), Chinese hamburgers (Roujiamo), and Qishan noodles, all showcasing the bold, savory flavors of northern and western Chinese cuisine. Beyond the food, the quarter is also home to the Great Mosque, offering a deeper cultural experience as you explore the vibrant markets and historical sites in this unique neighborhood.

After exploring the vibrant Muslim Quarter, your guide will accompany you back to your hotel, or, if you prefer, to Xi'an train station or airport. As you make your way to your chosen destination, take a moment to reflect on the day's journey through Xi'an’s rich history and dynamic culture. From the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors and the serene Small Wild Goose Pagoda to the ancient City Wall and the bustling Muslim Quarter, you've experienced the diverse highlights of this historic city. Your guide will ensure a comfortable and smooth transfer, whether you're heading back to your hotel to relax or continuing on your travels.

Price Per Person in US Dollars