After breakfast, head to explore the Ancient City Wall in downtown Xian. After a wonderful visit on the City Wall, it is time to admire “the Eighth Wonder of the World” - the Terracotta Army of Emperor Qin Shi Huang (world Heritage). Today, you will enjoy two cultural activities - a local family visit for Xian food culture and Terracotta Warriors DIY for the pottery experience.
In the morning, you can relax on the Xian City Wall, the only complete ancient city wall in China. Built-in 1370 during the Ming Dynasty (over 600 years ago), it encloses the 36 square kilometers old Xian city center and is the only fortification in China still as an unbroken rectangular circuit. The wall stands between modern Xian and the old city center, witnessing the transformation from a defense system to a city playground. You can take a leisurely walk on the Ancient City Wall to resonate with the echoes of history that the stones reverberate. Nowadays, the City Wall Cycling tour has become popular with locals and tourists. You can rent a bike and cycle on the City Wall (Optional & Self-pay), which offers a panoramic view of the city - a testament to Xi'an's historical significance and modern vibrancy.
Then, visit a local family and know more about Xian food culture, you would love to communicate with them while learning to make Chinese dumplings or cook some Xian family dishes. Xi'an, located in Shaanxi Province, is famous for its delicious and unique cuisine, which includes many dishes made from wheat powder such as dumplings, Biang Biang Noodles, Roujiamo, Pita Bread Soaked in Lamb Soup...
After lunch, drive about 50km (about 1hour) to the Terracotta Warriors Museum (Museum of Qin Terracotta Warriors and Horses). Here, you can see the Terracotta Warriors and Horses: an army of around 8,000 soldiers, 130 chariots, 520 horses, and 150 cavalry entirely made of baked clay or terracotta. This Terracotta Army has silently stood guard over the soul of China's First Emperor, Qin Shihuang (259BC - 210BC), until an accidental local farmer digging a well in 1974 struck upon one of the greatest archaeological discoveries in the world. Upon stepping into this "underground military museum", you will encounter two awe-inspiring shocks. The first is the magnitude of the archaeological marvel before you: thousands of life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots arranged in battle formations. The second shock is that the faces of thousands of Terracotta Warriors are still vivid, despite the passage of more than 2,000 years. Each figure is unique, with distinct postures, hairstyles, and armor, making them seem to come back to life in the next moment. During your visit, an knowledgeable guide can take you to highlights of the museum, including Pit One, Pit Two, Pit Three and provide valued explanations and insights that you might not get from simply observing the sculptures on your own.
Afterward, you will have time to sit down and create your own miniature Terracotta Warrior under the guidance of a local potter. With the Terracotta Warrior DIY experience, you will get more idea about how ancient people made the warriors and the culture related to the pottery. After making your own Terracotta Warrior by hand step by step, I'm sure you'll be impressed by the wisdom, craftsmanship, and techniques of the Qin Dynasty (221BC - 206BC). Finally, you can choose to head to Huaqing Palace (Huaqing Pool) for the "Song of Everlasting Sorrow" show or back to downtown Xian for the "Chang'an Impression - Tang Dynasty Grand Welcoming Ceremony" show for a further experience of the Tang Dynasty culture. (Note: You can choose to either head back to your hotel directly for a good rest or attend the evening show of your preference before returning to your hotel for the night.)
Optional Cultural Experiences:
1.The Song of Everlasting Sorrow (70min, start around 20:10pm)
It is a large-scale live-action show that tells the story of one of the most famous love stories in Chinese history between Tang Dynasty Emperor Li Longji and his beloved concubine Yang Yuhuan. The show features a cast of over 200 performers on the stage that set on a lake, surrounded by mountains, and the lighting effects add to the magical atmosphere. This must-see show will transport you back to the Tang Dynasty (618 - 907), where love, beauty, and poetry reign supreme. (Note: Due to its popularity, it's advisable to book this show as early as possible.)
2.Chang'an Impression - Tang Dynasty Grand Welcoming Ceremony (70min, start around 20:00pm)
It is a large-scale outdoor theatrical performance held at the South Gate of Xian Ancient City Wall. If you're interested in learning more about Xi'an's history and experiencing Chinese traditional culture, Xian regional culture, city wall culture, and ancient welcoming culture, this show should be your first choice. You will be part of a breathtaking ancient celebration from the Tang Dynasty: the Grand Welcoming Celebration. "City officials" in Tang Dynasty costumes will greet you, and when the suspension bridge is slowly lowered, you'll cross the bridge and step back in time. (Note: Make sure to book in advance, as tickets tend to sell out quickly.)