I did a 2-week tour in China, in Dec24/Jan25 and I was very pleased with Asia Odyssey. They handled everything very professionally, from the good accommodations to the great tour guides we had. I totally recommend this company for China tours.
Cultural Tour with Chinese Calligraphy, Family Visit & Terracotta Warriors
If you only have one day to explore Xian, what would you most want to do? This one-day Xian tour offers the perfect combination of the most important sites and incredible cultural experiences, providing a glimpse into the city's fascinating history, culinary delights, and cultural splendors.
Xian has been the capital of 13 dynasties and has had a significant impact on Chinese history and culture. Visiting Xian is a great opportunity to learn about Chinese history and culture together. You can have unique experiences such as making your own Terracotta Warriors replica with a skilled potter, learning to make Chinese dumplings with a local family, taking a Chinese calligraphy class, and cycling along the ancient city wall for panoramic views of Xian.
During your one-day tour, you'll have the chance to participate in these cultural experiences and visit Xian's most important historical sites, such as the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, and the ancient City Wall. You'll also have the opportunity to sample some of Xian's famous culinary delights, including the city's renowned Muslim Quarter.
After breakfast, head to admire “the Eighth Wonder of the World” - the Terracotta Army of Emperor Qin Shi Huang (world Heritage), then explore the Ancient City Wall in downtown Xian. Today, you will enjoy three cultural activities - Terracotta Warriors DIY for the pottery experience, a local family visit for Xian food culture, and Chinese Calligraphy Class for Chinese folk culture.
In the morning, drive about 40km (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).
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, at the Gao's Grand Courtyard, you can attend cultural classes in either Chinese calligraphy or painting. Calligraphy and paintings have been valuable treasures of Chinese culture throughout the ages. With the guidance of interpreters, you can practice Chinese calligraphy or create your own paper-cutting works, which will help you gain a comprehensive understanding of Chinese folk culture.
In the afternoon, 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. The Muslim Quarter is a paradise mixed with different local snacks and Muslim culture, and you can surely taste the most authentic local food there.
After tour, your guide and driver will send you back to your hotel. Please feel free to ask your guide for evening activity suggestions.
Trip Extension Ideas: If you want to explore more around China and other Asia destinations rather than return home right away, we would be glad to assist you with an extension trip. Feel free to tell us your ideas!
Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your Xian tour, and we are always here working for you and hope to see you again for your next trip to China/Asia. Safe journey!
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George
Romania
I did a 2-week tour in China, in Dec24/Jan25 and I was very pleased with Asia Odyssey. They handled everything very professionally, from the good accommodations to the great tour guides we had. I totally recommend this company for China tours.
George
Romania
Destination(s): Beijing, Xian, Shanghai, Chengdu/Sichuan, Guilin/Yangshuo, YangtzeRiver
Date of Experience: Jan 01, 2025
Tour Customized by: Catherine
You May be Interested in This Tour: Customized Tour
marlene K
Réunion
Vers easy to contact the person who managd my first journey a few months ago which was great . We discussed my new journey with whatsapp. BETTY is very helpful efficient and kind.it is a pleasure to deal with her and the company.
marlene K
Réunion
Destination(s): Beijing, Xian, Shanghai
Date of Experience: Oct 23, 2024
Tour Customized by: Betty
You May be Interested in This Tour: Customized Tour
Benny
Australia
Hannah has been of great service to us that she has been following us through the whole time of the trip. We did not feel lost even if we were moving different places. There has been little hicups and she resolved them really quickly. Highly recommend AOT.
Benny
Australia
Destination(s): Beijing, Xian, Shanghai
Date of Experience: Dec 19, 2024
Tour Customized by: Hannah
You May be Interested in This Tour: 8 Days Shanghai Xian Beijing Best of China Tour in Small Group
Price: Request
(Based on a private tour for two people. Price varies depending on program, travel date, number of people.)
Free Enquiry! You don’t need to pay for the reservation.