Xian Travel Package: Private Xian 4 Days Package Tour with Famen Temple

Summary

DAY 1 Xian: Shaanxi Provicial Museum, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Bell Tower, Tang Dynasty Show, Dumpling Banquet
DAY 2 Xian: Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, Ancient City Wall, Muslim Quarter 
DAY 3 Xian: Famen Temple, Qianling Tomb
DAY 4 Xian Departure

Day 1 Arrive in Xian

Upon arriving in Xi'an, you'll be warmly greeted by your tour guide at the exit of Xi'an train station, airport or at your accommodation in Xi'an. Look for the "Xi'an Your Way Holiday" welcome signage, reflecting our commitment to providing a personalized and immersive travel experience. Embracing our ethos of "Travel like a local," your guide will help you seamlessly transition into the vibrant life of Xi'an, ensuring you feel right at home. Your four-day adventure will begin with a local touch, offering you an authentic and engaging exploration of the city's rich heritage and modern wonders.

Firstly, your guide and driver will transport you to the Shaanxi Provincial History Museum, situated to the northwest of the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda. As one of China’s four largest museums with modern facilities, the Shaanxi History Museum is often hailed as "the pearl of ancient dynasties and a house of Chinese treasures." Your guide will provide insightful commentary as you explore this remarkable institution, which vividly reflects over a thousand years of Chinese history, showcasing the splendid culture and daily life of ancient times. With the help of your guide, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the cultural span of ancient Shaanxi and witness the pinnacle of China's historical and socio-economic development. Throughout your visit, your driver will ensure a comfortable and efficient journey, making your exploration of the museum a seamless and enriching experience.

After that, you'll visit the iconic Big Wild Goose Pagoda, one of China's most ancient and esteemed structures. This storied pagoda stands as a testament to architectural ingenuity, constructed from layers of bricks without the use of cement. The visible seams between the layers and the distinctive "prisms" on each side highlight its meticulous craftsmanship. The pagoda's grand and solemn appearance, coupled with its simple yet elegant design, exemplifies traditional Chinese architecture. As you marvel at this architectural masterpiece, you'll appreciate how its towering presence and historical significance offer a profound glimpse into China’s rich cultural heritage.

Then, take a short walk to the Bell Tower, a significant historical landmark in Xi'an. Dating back to the Ming Dynasty, this tower is part of the traditional duo of bell and drum towers found in ancient Chinese cities, used to mark the passage of time each day. The Bell Tower houses several notable cultural relics, including a massive ancient bell that once announced the dawn and signaled the city’s rhythms. Inside, you'll find inscribed steles and couplets adorned on columns, each carrying profound historical and cultural significance. The Bell Tower not only offers a glimpse into Xi'an's rich past but also stands as a testament to the city's storied heritage and architectural grandeur.

After your day of exploration, you'll head to the Shaanxi Grand Opera House, where your guide will assist you in finding your seat for a delightful Dumpling Dinner. Enjoy a unique dining experience with Dumplings’ Legend, which brings a distinctive twist to traditional Chinese cuisine. This restaurant blends the comforting flavors of London's Chinatown with the rich culinary heritage of regional Chinese dishes. Savor a variety of meticulously crafted dumplings, each offering a fusion of classic recipes and inventive twists. The dinner not only showcases the artistry of Chinese dumplings but also provides a memorable culinary journey that complements the cultural richness of your day.

Next, immerse yourself in the vibrant and mesmerizing Tang Dynasty Dance Show, an extraordinary performance that brings the grandeur of the Tang Dynasty to life. This spectacular show recreates the elegance and opulence of over a thousand years ago, with dazzling costumes, intricate choreography, and evocative music that transport you to the heart of Tang-era palaces. As you watch, it will feel as though you’ve stepped back in time, experiencing the splendor and cultural richness of one of China’s most illustrious dynasties. The performance’s vivid portrayal of ancient court life and artistic expression offers an unforgettable glimpse into the Tang Dynasty’s cultural legacy.

After the captivating Tang Dynasty Dance Show, your guide and driver will ensure a smooth return to your hotel. Your driver will transport you comfortably, while your guide will be on hand to assist with any final questions or needs you may have. Once you arrive at your hotel, you can unwind and rest, reflecting on the day's enriching experiences. With our dedicated services, your journey concludes on a relaxing note, allowing you to recharge for the adventures that lie ahead.

Day 2 Xian

After breakfast, your tour guide will greet you in the hotel lobby and accompany you on a drive to the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, a journey of approximately 50 minutes. This visit is the highlight of your Xi'an experience. The Terracotta Army, famously featured in travel books and websites, is a remarkable collection of terracotta sculptures representing the armies of Qin Shi Huang, China’s first emperor. Created as funerary art and buried with the emperor in 210–209 BCE, these sculptures were intended to protect him in the afterlife. As you explore this awe-inspiring site, your guide will share insights into the historical significance of the Terracotta Army, including details from historian Sima Qian’s Shiji, which described the tomb a century after its completion. Marvel at the intricacy of the sculptures and the vast scale of the excavation, experiencing firsthand the grandeur of this ancient burial complex.

After visiting the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, you will continue to the nearby Qin Tomb, where you will further admire the remarkable Terracotta Army. This site offers a unique opportunity to see the Terracotta Warriors in their full battle array, meticulously arranged as if poised for action. Explore the expansive burial pits where thousands of life-sized soldiers, chariots, and horses were discovered, each figure intricately detailed and strategically positioned. The Qin Tomb provides a deeper understanding of the scale and significance of Emperor Qin Shi Huang's grand funerary complex, revealing the impressive efforts made to secure his afterlife. Your guide will offer additional insights into the history and archaeological significance of this extraordinary site, enhancing your appreciation of this ancient marvel.

After your exploration of the Qin Tomb, your guide and driver will transport you back to downtown Xi'an for a delightful lunch. At a local Chinese restaurant, you'll have the chance to savor authentic Xi'an cuisine. Your guide will recommend some of the city’s specialties, such as the renowned Xi'an-style noodles, flavorful Yangrou Paomo (lamb soup with bread), and the delectable Chinese-style dumplings. Enjoy the rich, diverse flavors that reflect Xi'an's vibrant culinary heritage. Your guide will ensure you experience the best of local dining, providing recommendations based on your taste preferences and offering insights into the cultural significance of the dishes.

In the afternoon, you'll visit the majestic Xi'an Ancient City Wall, a true marvel of ancient architecture and one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites. This formidable structure stands as one of the oldest, largest, and best-preserved city walls in China, offering a remarkable glimpse into the grandeur of feudal society’s defensive architecture. Originally built during the Tang Dynasty, the wall was later enhanced under the Ming Dynasty to fortify the city. Today, it remains a top attraction in Xi'an, providing an immersive experience into ancient urban planning and military fortifications. You can take a leisurely walk around the wall to fully appreciate its impressive scale, or opt for a bike ride to cover more ground and enjoy panoramic views of the city. This exploration offers a unique opportunity to connect with China’s architectural heritage and envision life in ancient Xi'an.

Next, you'll delve into the vibrant Muslim Quarter, a captivating blend of culinary delights and rich Islamic culture with over a millennium of history. This bustling area is renowned for its mouthwatering array of Islamic foods, offering a sensory feast of flavors and aromas. Explore the lively market streets, paved with gray flagstones and lined with Ming-style buildings, where you can sample local specialties such as spicy lamb kebabs, savory yangrou paomo, and sweet date cakes. The Muslim Quarter is also home to the Great Mosque, an architectural gem that reflects the harmonious integration of Islamic and traditional Chinese styles. As you wander through the bustling ethnic shopping center and the lively residential area of the Hui people, you'll experience the unique cultural tapestry that defines this historic quarter.

After the tour concludes, your guide and driver will ensure a smooth and comfortable return to your hotel. Your driver will provide a relaxing journey back, while your guide will be available to assist with any last-minute questions or arrangements you may need. Whether you have inquiries about the day's experiences or need recommendations for the evening, your guide will be happy to help. Enjoy the convenience of a stress-free ride, allowing you to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures as you head back to your accommodation.

Day 3 Xian

Today, you'll embark on your tour with a visit to Famen Temple, an illustrious site with over 1,700 years of history. Often referred to as the "Forerunner of the Ziggurat in Central Shaanxi," Famen Temple is a significant cultural landmark. The Famen Temple Cultural Scenic Area is a sprawling complex divided into four distinct zones: the Temple Gate Square, Foguang Avenue, Famen Temple, and the Namaste Dagoba. This revered site is celebrated as the "No. 2 Cultural Symbol of Shaanxi," following only the Terracotta Army. As a world-class cultural destination, it offers a profound glimpse into Buddhist heritage, showcasing the enduring legacy of this ancient holy land and its classic Buddhist traditions.

In the afternoon, you'll journey to the Qianling Tomb, an impressive historical site where the third Tang-dynasty emperor, Li Zhi, and his influential empress, Wu Zetian, are interred. This tomb stands out as the most representative and best-preserved among the eighteen Tang-dynasty tombs. Situated atop Liangshan (Liang Mountain), approximately six kilometers north of Qian County City and around eighty kilometers from Xi'an, the Qianling Tomb is renowned for its grandeur and extensive grounds. The site encompasses a vast area of 2,400,000 square meters, including the elaborate tomb precincts and beautifully landscaped gardens. As you explore this magnificent tomb, you'll gain insight into Tang-dynasty imperial funerary practices and appreciate the scale and artistry of one of China’s most significant ancient burial sites.

At the end of your visit to the Qianling Tomb, your guide and driver will ensure a smooth and comfortable return to your hotel. Your driver will provide a relaxing ride, navigating the route with efficiency to get you back safely. Meanwhile, your guide will be available to answer any last-minute questions you might have about the day's experiences or provide additional recommendations for your stay. Whether you want to discuss the highlights of the tour or seek suggestions for local dining and activities, your guide will offer valuable insights. Enjoy the convenience of a seamless return journey, allowing you to unwind and reflect on the day's discoveries.

Day 4 Xian Departure

Today is yours to explore at your own pace before our driver transfers you to the train station or airport, depending on your travel plans. We hope you’ve enjoyed your four-day journey with us, immersing in the rich history and culture of Xi'an. For your free time, you might want to visit the tranquil Daming Palace National Heritage Park, offering a peaceful walk through the remains of a Tang Dynasty palace. Alternatively, explore the quirky art galleries in Xi'an’s Creative Cultural Park for a modern take on Chinese art. For a culinary adventure, consider trying jianbing, a savory crepe, or biangbiang noodles, a local favorite with a spicy kick. Thank you for traveling with us, and we wish you a safe journey home, filled with unforgettable memories of Xi'an!

Price Per Person in US Dollars