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Home Xian Tours 1 Day Xian Cultural Tour with Terracotta, Family Visit & Calligraphy Experience
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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.

You Can Experience “Must-see & Must-do” with This Tour
Highlight 1: Step into the "underground military museum," witness the marvel of Terracotta Warriors and be awe-inspired by the thousands of meticulously crafted terracotta soldiers, horses, and chariots that have stood guard for over 2,000 years.
1 Day Xian Cultural Tour
Highlight 2: Capture the beauty of Xi'an's by ascending the 600-year-old Xi'an Ancient City Wall, a marvelously preserved fortification. Stroll leisurely or enjoy a bike ride along the wall, and be captivated by the breathtaking views of the ancient capital.
1 Day Xian Cultural Tour
Highlight 3: Join locals for classic cultural experiences to learn more about Xian food culture, Chinese calligraphy, Hanfu culture, Tang Dynasty culture...
1 Day Xian Cultural Tour
Highlight 4: Delight your taste buds with a visit to the Muslim Quarter in Xi'an. Explore the lively streets filled with aromatic spices and mouth-watering street food. Immerse yourself in the bustling market atmosphere as you sample local delicacies and experience the vibrant mix of Islamic and Chinese cultures.
1 Day Xian Cultural Tour
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Itinerary at a Glance

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Xi'an (1 Day)

Muslim Quarter, Terracotta Warriors, Make Your Own Terracotta Warriors Replica, Chinese Dumplings Making, Chinese Calligraphy Experience, Ancient City Wall

Itinerary Day by Day

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Day 1 Xian Cultural Tour | Terracotta Warriors, Family Visit, Ancient City Wall

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!

DiningDining:
Lunch
AccommodationAccommodation:
None

Price: What’s Included & What’s Excluded

Price: Request
The above price is based on a private tour for 2 people. Price varies depending on travel date, group size, hotel class, program in your itinerary and possible fluctuation of currency exchange rate.

What’s Included?

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Experienced drivers & air-conditioned vehicles
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Professional licensed English-speaking local guide
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Hotel accommodation with breakfasts
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Domestic flights (economy class) or high-speed trains (second class) listed in the itinerary
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Admission tickets, activities, meals listed in the itinerary
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Accident insurance
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Our service from tour planning, handling, operational and finishing your trip

What’s Excluded?

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International airfares
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Entry visa fees
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Personal expenses
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Single room supplement
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Recommended optional activities
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Arrival/departure flights or train on the first and last day
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Tips or gratuities for guides and drivers

Important Trip Notes for Booking a Private China Tour

How do I book a private China tour?
It is very simple to book a private China tour. Select the tour you are interested, and click “Make an Enquiry for Free”. Tell us your demands and likes while submitting the form. During this process, you don’t need to pay immediately. After sending us your requirements, one of our professional travel experts will get back to you within 0.5 to 24 hours. When all the information have confirmed, then you make the deposit. Please feel free to contact the travel expert directly if you have any questions prior to booking.
Extend Your China Tour
The above itinerary is the sample one that most travelers would go like that. The tour can be customized based on your likes, interests and budget. At the same time, if you want to extend this tour, just tell us your favored destinations and things to do. Our professional travel experts will redesign the trip totally for you and your group at the best price. Tell us your ideas now >>
Transportation
In a private tour, it means you will transfer to the tourist attractions in one city by private vehicle. The private car we selected is spacious, comfortable and air-conditioned. And the driver we use are very experienced. As for traveling between two destinations, we use domestic flights (economy seat) or high speed trains (second class seat, usually less than 6 hours). The local guides and drivers will pick you up at the airport/train stations, and escort you to the hotel.
Meals
“B” stands for breakfast. You will have it at your hotel in the morning.
“L” stands for lunch. The restaurants we will arrange for you are all designated tourist restaurants approved by local tourist administration bureau. All are in good sanitary conditions. Your guide will assist you with ordering the dishes.
“D” means dinner. All dinners are excluded in the itinerary. You have the chance to taste some authentic Chinese food and local snacks.
If you have special dietary requirements (vegetarian, halal, kosher, Indian, or gluten-free), please let us know before your booking. We will try our best to take care of you.

Accommodation & Hotel Condition for Your China Tour

Recommended 4 Star Hotel in China
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Recommended 4 Star Hotel in China
Recommended 4 Star Hotel in China
Recommended 4 Star Hotel in China
Have a good sleep everyday is very important during your China tour. In a private tour, you can decide on your own which hotel class you want - luxury 5 star, comfortable 4-star or economic 3-star.
All the hotels in each destination we selected are at good location, close to commercial street or tourist attractions. And, all the hotels we use have a business relationship for many years and they have windows, air-conditioners, hot water, showers, wifi... (except for basic accommodation condition when travel to Mount Everest) to ensure you luxury and comfortable sleep experience. The staff can speak English and they will provide you the high quality service. If you have any requirements, you can ask them to help.

Photo Gallery for This Itinerary

  • Xian Terracotta Warriors
  • Make Miniature Terracotta Warrior
  • Xian Muslim Quarter
  • Xian Ancient City Wall
  • Xian Terracotta Warriors
  • Xian Ancient City Wall

Latest Xian Tours Reviews from Our Customers

Discover what our customers are saying about the latest Xian Tours. Browse through their recent reviews and feedback on tour arrangements, guides, transportation, attractions, dining, hotels, and detailed itineraries to plan your own unforgettable China tour. View All Customers Reviews >>
Sue
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Fantastic experience traveling the Silk Road from Xi’an!

The 10-day Silk Road adventure from Xi’an to Kashgar was truly remarkable! Each stop offered something unique, from the cultural treasures of Dunhuang’s Mogao Caves to the vibrant bazaars in Kashgar. Turpan’s ancient ruins and stunning desert landscapes added a sense of timeless mystery to the trip. Highly recommended Asia Odyssey Travel for anyone wanting a taste of China’s diverse heritage!

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Sue
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The 10-day Silk Road adventure from Xi’an to Kashgar was truly remarkable! Each stop offered something unique, from the cultural treasures of Dunhuan...
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Destination(s): Xian, Dunhuang/Gansu

Date of Experience: May 31, 2024

Tour Customized by: Noemi

You May be Interested in This Tour: 10 Days Classic China Silk Road Tour: Xian, Mogao Caves & Kashgar Old City

christine l
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Excellent travel company!
I did the Beijing-Xi'an-Guillin-Yangtze river-Shanghai group tour. The tour was well organised and the guides knew so much about each site.Vincent also helped me extend my trip to visit Suzhou and Hangzhou. At every destination I was met by knowledgeable helpful guides who went above and beyond their duty. I would recommend this service to anyone wishing to visit China! I enjoyed my month stay in China thanks to Asian odyssey!
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christine l
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I did the Beijing-Xi'an-Guillin-Yangtze river-Shanghai group tour. The tour was well organised and the guides knew so much about each site.Vincent als...
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Destination(s): Beijing, Xian, Shanghai, Guilin/Yangshuo, YangtzeRiver

Date of Experience: Apr 26, 2024

Tour Customized by: Vincent

You May be Interested in This Tour: Customized Tour

Sightseer03878258550
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The adventure of China, Tibet and road to Kathmandu
We decided to do something different for our 25th wedding anniversary and decided upon a tour visiting China (inc Tibet) & ending at Kathmandu, Nepal. We contacted Vincent at Asia Odyssey Travel who assisted us with ensuring that the holiday we wanted was what we got. We made quite a few changes to the standard itinerary, including flying from Xian to Lhasa. We would have loved to have taken the train journey of 31 hours but the smallest berth was for 4 people. This may have been fine but was unwilling to risk being stuck in a small berth with people we would have preferred not to be with. Please research the various options yourself if you take this tour. Think about getting an eSim before you arrive in China and a VPN although we still couldn’t access most emails of social media. We arrived in Beijing and was met by our guide at the airport arrivals and then taken to our first hotel. All our guides were very friendly, spoke good English and were very knowledgeable. Similarly all our drivers were very professional and safe. Driving in China is an interesting experience. All the sites we visited during our tour were amazing. In Beijing, these were Tienanmen square, the forbidden palace, summer palace, Jingshan park and the great wall at Mutianyu which was a 2 hour drive but less touristy and had been renovated. All places were fairly crowded and you will be pushed at times by Chinese tourists - don't expect the same courtesies as you would expect in the west. Also be prepared to have your passport check multiple times at each location. Next stop was Xian which we traveled to via the high speed train. We choose first class seats which was worth the extra cost, There are actually 4 classes of travel - 3rd, 2nd, 1st & business. The train was very smooth and it was difficult to believe that during the journey we were traveling at 348km/h (216mph). The hotel was very comfortable (Ramada) and a step up from the Beijing hotel. In Xian we visited the Terracotta army which encompassed 3 separate sites all in large halls. This was extremely crowded and difficult to get to the railings to take pictures, but we did manage. Later we visited the Drum and bell towers and had a walk on the city wall. Followed by a visit to the Muslim quarter and mosque. If you have been to a middle eastern mosque or bazaar then this is not as grand but still worth a visit, including sampling some local food. Finally in Xian, we visited the Shanxi history museum which was very informative. We did attend two shows recommended by our guide - the silk road and story of the Empress. The silk road was phenomenal - we sat on a giant turntable which revolved around the different stages. This show included volcanoes, volcanoes, wolves in addition to the regular actors. The Empress show included a dumpling dinner with 12 varieties of dumplings. Following a short flight to Lhasa we relaxed at our hotel. We did suffer from altitude sickness but in a few days had acclimatised and were OK without the need for oxygen which was readily available. The next few days were very busy with visits to Jokhang temple, Sera monastery (inc monks debates), Bakhor Street and Potala palace. All these were amazing and we had an excellent guide who explained each place with a good level of detail but didn't overload us. The highlight of the trip was Everest base camp. It was a great drive through the twisting mountain roads with great vistas. The accommodation was a large tent divided into separate bedrooms and a living area. Thankfully they had electric under-blankets as it down to minus 14 inside the tent at night. Be aware that each evening between 10 and 11 they play loud music so don’t expect to sleep before then. Also the toilet facilities are very basic and there is no washing facilities - fortunately we had bought hand wipes with us. We then traveled to Gyirong for our border crossing to Nepal. The number of hotels is limited and are of significantly lower standards than found in western countries. However this was not part of the normal tour. The Chinese side of the border was very impressive with a fairly new imposing building. Expect to have your phone taken off you to see what photographs you have taken. The Nepal side of the border is in essence a shanty town with an unmade road - definitely need a 4x4 vehicle, as on the 7 hour journey to Kathmandu, 4 hours was on unpaved roads full of potholes. The tour company supplied a guide to obtain our Nepal visas, this was a god send as there was a free for all approach at immigration. Overall a great experience enabled by Asia Odyssey travel. Thank you.
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Sightseer03878258550
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We decided to do something different for our 25th wedding anniversary and decided upon a tour visiting China (inc Tibet) & ending at Kathmandu, Nepal....
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Destination(s): Beijing, Xian, Tibet

Date of Experience: Apr 30, 2024

Tour Customized by: Vincent

You May be Interested in This Tour: Customized Tour

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Trip Style: Private Tour (flexible travel dates & numbers of travelers)
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Tour Code: AOT-TXA-011
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Travel Route: Xian
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Features: World Heritages, History, Culture, DIY, Calligraphy, Ancient City Wall, Walking Street

Price: Request

(Based on a private tour for two people. Price varies depending on program, travel date, number of people.)

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