About Xi'an

Xi'an, formerly known as Chang'an, is one of China's most historically significant cities with over 3,000 years of history. As the eastern terminus of the ancient Silk Road and the capital of 13 imperial dynasties, Xi'an represents the cradle of Chinese civilization. The city is surrounded by an impressively preserved ancient city wall and houses some of China's most precious cultural treasures, including the world-famous Terracotta Warriors. Xi'an offers visitors a unique blend of ancient heritage and modern development, diverse culinary traditions highlighted by its Muslim Quarter, and serves as a gateway to explore the stunning landscapes of central China, including the majestic Mount Hua. This expanded 7-day itinerary allows you to experience both the rich cultural heritage within the city and the natural wonders in the surrounding region.

7-Day Xi'an Itinerary:

DAY 1:

Airport pickup and hotel check-in.

• Rest and recuperate after your journey.
• Optional evening activity: Light dinner at a local restaurant near your hotel to sample Xi'an cuisine.

DAY 2:

Exploring Emperor Qin's legacy and Tang Dynasty culture.

• Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum: Marvel at one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of the 20th century. Witness thousands of life-sized clay soldiers, each with unique facial features, arranged in battle formation to protect Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife.
• Huaqing Pool (Huaqing Hot Springs): Visit this historic royal bathing complex dating back to the Tang Dynasty, featuring beautiful traditional architecture and gardens at the foot of Mount Li.
• The Song of Everlasting Sorrow Performance: Enjoy an impressive evening show that tells the tragic love story of Emperor Xuanzong and his concubine Yang Guifei, staged at the actual historical site where the events took place.

DAY 3:

Exploring Xi'an's cultural heritage.

• Shaanxi History Museum: Discover one of China's finest museums housing over 370,000 artifacts that span the province's rich history from prehistoric times to the Qing Dynasty.
• Xi'an Expo Park and "Miracle of Qin Empire" Performance: Visit the beautifully landscaped park that hosted the 2011 Xi'an International Horticultural Exposition, and enjoy the spectacular "Miracle of Qin Empire" cultural performance that brings to life the splendid history and legends of ancient China through modern stagecraft, dance, and special effects.

DAY 4:

Film culture and Tang Dynasty splendor.

• Bailuyuan (White Deer Plain) Film Studios: Explore this sprawling film and television production base that recreates historical settings of the Guanzhong region, where many popular Chinese historical dramas are filmed.
• Big Wild Goose Pagoda: Visit this ancient Buddhist pagoda built in 652 during the Tang Dynasty to house sutras and Buddhist figurines brought from India.
• Great Tang All Day Mall (Datang Buxingjie): End your day at this vibrant commercial and entertainment district featuring Tang Dynasty-style buildings, colorful lights, fountains, and cultural performances.

DAY 5:

Modern history and rural culture.

• Zhang Xueliang's Former Residence: Visit the historic home where General Zhang Xueliang was held under house arrest for over 50 years following the Xi'an Incident of 1936, a pivotal event in modern Chinese history that forced the Kuomintang and Communist Party to form an alliance against Japanese aggression.
• Yuanjiacun Folk Culture Village: Explore this well-preserved traditional village that has been revitalized as a cultural tourism destination, offering authentic local architecture, traditional crafts, folk performances, and famous Shaanxi cuisine. The village provides insight into rural life and traditions of the Guanzhong region.

DAY 6:

Mount Hua adventure.

• Mount Hua (Huashan): Spend a full day exploring one of China's Five Great Mountains, famous for its steep cliffs, narrow paths, and breathtaking views. Ascend by cable car and explore the mountain's five peaks, each offering spectacular vistas of the surrounding landscape. Mount Hua has historically been an important site for Taoist practice and features several temples perched dramatically on its peaks.
• Return to Xi'an in the evening.

DAY 7:

City center exploration before departure.

• Xi'an City Wall: Walk or bike along one of the most complete ancient city walls in China, offering panoramic views of the city from its ramparts.
• Yongxingfang Food Street: Sample authentic Shaanxi cuisine and snacks at this cultural and food street showcasing local culinary traditions.
• Bell Tower and Drum Tower Square: Visit these iconic landmarks in the center of Xi'an that once served as timekeeping instruments for the ancient city.
• Muslim Quarter (Huimin Jie): Stroll through the bustling streets filled with food stalls, souvenir shops, and insight into the vibrant Muslim community that has lived in Xi'an since the Silk Road era.
• Airport transfer and departure according to your flight schedule.