Effortless Xi'an Adventure: Explore Terracotta Warriors and Enjoy a Tang Dynasty Dinner Show

Tour Itinerary

Your exceptional Xi'an experience begins with a warm welcome from our professional local guide. Meet them at the exit of Xi'an train station or in the lobby of your Xi'an hotel, where they will be holding a "Your Way Holiday" sign for easy identification. From this moment, you will be in capable hands as our guide ensures a smooth and enjoyable start to your tour. They will assist with any luggage and provide a brief overview of the day's itinerary, setting the stage for a memorable exploration of Xi'an.

Your journey starts with a visit to the world-renowned Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, often hailed as the "Eighth Wonder of the World." This extraordinary site offers an unparalleled glimpse into ancient China, showcasing an impressive array of life-sized terracotta soldiers, chariots, and horses that date back to the 3rd century BC. Discovered in 1974, this archaeological marvel was part of the tomb complex of Emperor Qin Shi Huang. As you explore the museum, your guide will provide in-depth explanations of the significance of the terracotta army and the historical context of the burial pits. They will navigate you through the museum's various sections, highlighting key features and ensuring you don't miss any significant details. Marvel at the preserved state of these statues, each uniquely detailed and positioned to protect the emperor in the afterlife. Your guide will share fascinating anecdotes and historical insights, enriching your visit with a deeper understanding of this pivotal archaeological discovery and its impact on our knowledge of ancient Chinese history.

First stop is Pit 1, the largest and most spectacular of the three Terracotta Army pits, covering an area of about 14,000 square meters. Discovered in 1974, it contains over 6,000 life-sized terracotta soldiers, horses, and chariots arranged in battle formation. As you enter, you’ll be awestruck by the sheer scale of this military "army," with rows upon rows of soldiers, each with unique facial features and expressions. The pit is designed to reflect the emperor’s power, and the soldiers are positioned as if ready for battle, offering a dramatic glimpse into the grandeur of Qin Shi Huang's reign.

After Pit 1, head to Pit 3, the smallest of the three, but one that holds significant historical importance. This pit is believed to represent the command center of the army, where high-ranking officers and officials were stationed to oversee the troops. The pit contains fewer figures than Pit 1, including warriors, chariots, and a few horses, but the detail in the statues is exceptional. Here, you get a closer look at the structure of the Qin army, with statues arranged in a formation suggesting military strategy and leadership, offering a glimpse into the organization of the Qin Dynasty.

Lastly, visit Pit 2, which lies at the northern side of the eastern end of Pit 1. It provides a fascinating look at the diverse military forces of the Qin army, with a mix of infantry, cavalry, archers, and chariots arranged in a dynamic, fluid formation. The figures in Pit 2 are in various poses, many in defensive positions, particularly the archers, ready to take aim. It is a unique opportunity to see the process of excavation, as many of the statues remain in various stages of restoration, giving insight into the ongoing preservation efforts.

Following your visit to the Terracotta Warriors, enjoy a delicious local lunch at a nearby restaurant. Savor Xi'an’s famed cuisine, including specialties like Biang Biang noodles, Roujiamo ,Chinese hamburger, it consists of shredded or minced meat (typically pork or beef, but lamb is also common) that’s seasoned with a mix of spices like cumin, garlic, and soy sauce, and then stuffed inside a flatbread bun.  And Yangrou Paomo (lamb soup with pita bread),the dish features tender lamb in a rich, flavorful broth, which is served alongside pieces of pita bread that you tear apart and dip into the soup. Your guide will introduce you to these local delights, providing insights into their cultural significance and ensuring a satisfying and authentic culinary experience.

Later, step back in time as you ascend the awe-inspiring Xi’an Ancient City Wall, one of the largest and best-preserved city walls in China — and a proud UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 14th century during the Ming Dynasty atop Tang Dynasty foundations, this colossal fortification stretches around 14 kilometers and towers 12 meters high. Once a mighty military stronghold, today it offers visitors a serene yet majestic promenade above the bustling city. Whether you choose to walk or cycle along its broad ramparts, you’ll catch sweeping views of Xi’an’s skyline, pass by ancient watchtowers and arched gates, and truly feel the pulse of history beneath your feet.

Your journey wraps up in one of Xi’an’s most unforgettable spots — the Muslim Quarter, a vibrant mosaic of culture, cuisine, and centuries-old tradition. This lively neighborhood has been the heart of the city’s Hui Muslim community for over a millennium. As you wander through its narrow alleys flanked by Ming-style buildings, the air becomes thick with the scent of sizzling skewers and freshly baked bread. Get ready to treat your taste buds with local favorites like Yangrou Paomo (crumbled flatbread in mutton soup), Liangpi (cold rice noodles), Roujiamo (China’s answer to the hamburger), and spicy Qishan noodles. But it’s not just about food — the quarter also offers glimpses into Xi’an’s multicultural soul, with landmarks like the Great Mosque quietly tucked among the food stalls and shops, waiting to be discovered.

Later, you will be escorted to Tang Dynasty Palace (Tangyuegong) to enjoy a delightful evening featuring a Dumpling Banquet followed by the Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Show. The dumpling banquet showcases a wide variety of skillfully crafted dumplings with different shapes and fillings, offering a taste of traditional Shaanxi cuisine. After dinner, sit back and enjoy a dazzling stage performance that revives the grandeur of the Tang Dynasty through music, dance, and elegant costumes. The show is performed in a luxurious theater and presents the charm of ancient Chang’an’s court life. Your guide will offer cultural background about the Tang Dynasty and highlight key scenes, helping you better understand the artistic beauty and historical significance of the show.

After the show, our dedicated driver will ensure a smooth and comfortable transfer back to your hotel or Xi'an train station. Throughout the journey, your guide will be available to answer any final questions, provide additional recommendations for your stay or travel, and assist with any last-minute needs. Whether you’re returning to your accommodation or catching a train, we aim to make your departure seamless and stress-free. Our attentive service ensures that you conclude your tour with ease, leaving you with pleasant memories of your experience.

Price Per Person in US Dollars