How to Plan Your 2-Day Xian Small Group Tour: Terracotta Army, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and Mt Huashan
If you’re planning a trip to China, you definitely shouldn’t miss the opportunity to explore Xian. This ancient city is renowned for its rich history, culture and cuisine, and there is plenty to see and do here. One of the best ways to experience Xian is by taking a 2-day small group tour to explore the Terracotta Army, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and Mt. Huashan. In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the details of this tour so you can plan your trip with ease.Overview
This 2-day small group tour starts in Xian, and takes you on an exciting journey to explore some of the most iconic landmarks in the region. You’ll visit the Terracotta Army, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of the 20th century. You’ll also explore the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, one of the most impressive Buddhist temples in China, and take a scenic cable car ride up Mt. Huashan to witness stunning views of the surrounding countryside.What’s Included
Here’s a breakdown of what’s included in the tour package:- Round way scenic shuttle bus and North Peak cable car in Huashan Scenic Area
- Air-condition car and driver English speaking tour guide
- One bottle of mineral water per day
- Hotel
Meeting and Pickup
The meeting point for the tour is the Bell Tower Hotel in Xian. If you are unable to make it to the meeting point, you can request pickup from your hotel. Pickup is offered for hotels within the 2nd ring road of Xian, if your hotel is located beyond this range, you will need to make your own way to the Bell Tower Hotel to join the group.What to Expect
Day 1
On the first day of the tour, your English-speaking tour guide will pick you up from the designated meeting point or your hotel, and drive you to the Terracotta Army site. Once you arrive, you’ll stand in awe of the thousands of life-sized terracotta warriors and horses, and learn about their history and significance from your knowledgeable guide. The site also includes a museum, which houses many priceless artifacts, including bronze chariots, weapons, and jewelry. After exploring the Terracotta Army site, your tour guide will take you to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, where you’ll be amazed by its stunning architecture and rich history. The pagoda was built in 652 AD during the Tang dynasty, and it was originally used to store Buddhist sutras and figurines that the monk Xuanzang brought back from India. You’ll get to explore the pagoda and its surrounding gardens, and also enjoy a traditional Chinese lunch. After lunch, you’ll be dropped off at your hotel to rest up before the next day’s adventure.Day 2
On the second day of the tour, you’ll be picked up from your hotel and driven to Mt. Huashan. Once you arrive, you’ll take a scenic cable car ride up to the North Peak, where you’ll be greeted by sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. You’ll also have the opportunity to climb up to the mountain’s summit for even more stunning panoramic views. After you’ve taken in the beauty of Mt. Huashan, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the local restaurants, before being dropped off back at the meeting point or your hotel.Booking Your Tour
To book your 2-day Xian small group tour, visit the tour’s page on Viator’s website, and choose your preferred date and group size. The tour costs around $214 per person, and you can pay using your credit card or PayPal account. Remember to bring your confirmation voucher with you on the day of the tour. Joining a small group tour is the best way to experience Xian’s rich history and culture, while making new friends along the way. Book your tour now and get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime experience! Book the tour here
FAQ about Xi’an
Xi’an is a city steeped in history and culture, with attractions and experiences that are unique to this part of China. If you’re planning a trip to this city, then you might have some questions about what to expect. In this FAQ, we’ll cover some of the most common questions people ask about Xi’an.1. What is Xi’an famous for?
Xi’an is famous for its Terracotta Warriors, an army of over 8,000 life-size statues that were buried with the first emperor of China. In addition, Xi’an was once the capital of China, and as such, it has many historical sites, including the Ancient City Wall and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. The city is also known for its food, including the famous “Chinese hamburger” known as roujiamo.2. What is the best time of year to visit Xi’an?
The best time to visit Xi’an is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) months, when the weather is mild and comfortable. The summer months can be hot and humid, while the winter months can be cold and dry. However, visiting during the off-season can help you avoid the crowds and get better deals.3. What is the transportation system like in Xi’an?
Xi’an has a modern transportation system that includes buses, taxis, and a subway system. The subway is a convenient way to get around the city, with several lines that cover most of the major attractions. Taxis are also affordable and easy to find, but be sure to agree upon a price before getting in. Buses are a cheap option, but they can be crowded and confusing for non-Chinese speakers.4. How can I get from Xi’an Xianyang International Airport to the city center?
There are several options for getting from the airport to the city center, including taxis, buses, and the subway. Taxis are the most convenient option, but they can be expensive. The airport shuttle bus is a cheaper option, with several lines that cover different parts of the city. The subway also connects the airport to the city center, with a journey time of around 30 minutes.5. What are some must-see attractions in Xi’an?
Aside from the Terracotta Warriors, other must-see attractions in Xi’an include the Ancient City Wall, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, the Shaanxi History Museum, and the Muslim Quarter. Each of these attractions offers a unique insight into Xi’an’s history and culture.6. What should I eat in Xi’an?
Xi’an is famous for its food, with many unique dishes that you won’t find anywhere else in China. Some of the must-try dishes include: – Roujiamo: A Chinese hamburger made with pork or beef stuffed inside a baked bun. – Yangrou Paomo: A soup made with lamb and flatbread that you tear into small pieces and add to the broth. – Liangpi: A cold noodle dish made with wheat gluten and served with a spicy sauce. – Biangbiang Noodles: Thick, hand-pulled noodles served with meat, vegetables, and a spicy sauce.7. What are some cultural experiences I can have in Xi’an?
Xi’an has a rich cultural heritage, and there are many experiences that will give you an insight into the city’s past and present. Some of the best cultural experiences include: – Tang Dynasty Show: A performance that showcases the music, dance, and costumes of the Tang Dynasty. – Calligraphy lesson: Learn how to write Chinese characters under the guidance of a calligraphy master. – Dumpling making class: Learn how to make Chinese dumplings, a staple of Xi’an cuisine. – Visit a local market: Explore one of Xi’an’s bustling local markets and sample some of the local food.8. Are there any customs or etiquette I should be aware of when visiting Xi’an?
When visiting Xi’an, there are a few customs and etiquette rules that it’s worth being aware of: – Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a temple. – When greeting someone, use their formal title or surname. – It’s considered impolite to point your finger directly at someone; use an open hand instead. – Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics or religion.9. Is it safe to visit Xi’an?
Xi’an is generally a safe city to visit, with a low crime rate compared to other major cities in China. However, it’s always worth taking precautions when traveling, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding isolated areas at night.10. What are some day trips I can take from Xi’an?
Xi’an is located in the heart of China, making it a great base for day trips to nearby attractions. Some popular day trips from Xi’an include: – Huashan Mountain: A scenic mountain range known for its picturesque peaks and dangerous cliffside paths. – Xianyang City: An ancient city that was once the capital of the Qin Dynasty, with many historical sites to explore. – Hanyangling Mausoleum: An underground museum dedicated to the Han Dynasty, with well-preserved relics and artifacts.Book Your Tour Now
Xi’an is a city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and cuisine. With its many attractions and experiences, there’s something for everyone in this fascinating city. By following these tips and guidelines, you’re sure to have a memorable trip to Xi’an.
How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Xi’an: A Comprehensive Guide
Xi’an, the capital of Shaanxi province in China, is a city with a rich history and a wealth of cultural attractions that should not be missed. If you’re planning a trip to Xi’an, you’re in for a treat! This guide will help you make the most of your time in Xi’an by highlighting the must-see sights, best local foods, and top cultural experiences.1. Start Your Journey at the City Wall
The City Wall of Xi’an is a fortification that dates back to the Tang Dynasty. The wall is over 8 miles long and encloses the old town of Xi’an. The wall is a great place to start your journey in Xi’an as you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the city and a sense of its history. You can rent a bike and ride around the wall, which takes about 2 hours. Alternatively, you can walk or take a golf cart tour.2. Visit the Terracotta Army
No trip to Xi’an would be complete without a visit to the Terracotta Army, one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. The army is a collection of terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of the first emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang. The sculptures are over 2,000 years old and were only discovered in 1974. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts millions of visitors each year.3. Sample Local Foods at the Muslim Quarter
The Muslim Quarter is a bustling street market and food paradise in Xi’an. Here you’ll find a variety of local foods such as roujiamo (meat sandwich), yangrou paomo (lamb soup with bread), and biangbiang noodles. The market is a great place to haggle for souvenirs too!4. Explore the Shaanxi History Museum
The Shaanxi History Museum is a museum dedicated to the history of Shaanxi province. The museum has over 370,000 artifacts and is a great place to learn about the rich history of the region. The museum has a collection of bronzes, pottery, jade, and other artifacts, and also houses temporary exhibitions.5. See the Drum Tower and Bell Tower
The Drum Tower and Bell Tower are two iconic buildings in Xi’an that date back to the 14th century. The Drum Tower was used to keep time and was also used to signal danger. The Bell Tower was used to announce the time of day. Both buildings are located in the center of Xi’an and are a great place to take photos.6. Walk Through the Great Mosque
The Great Mosque of Xi’an is one of the oldest and most well-preserved mosques in China. The mosque was built in the 8th century and has a unique blend of Chinese and Islamic architectural styles. The mosque is located in the Muslim Quarter and is a tranquil place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.7. Hike Up Huashan Mountain
Huashan Mountain is one of the Five Great Mountains of China and is a popular place for hiking and sightseeing. The mountain has five peaks, each with its own unique scenery. It’s a strenuous hike, but the views are worth it. If you don’t want to hike, you can take a cable car up the mountain.8. Attend the Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Show
The Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Show is a cultural performance that showcases the music and dance of the Tang Dynasty. The Tang Dynasty was a golden age of Chinese culture, and the show is a great way to experience the music and dance of this period. The show is performed nightly and includes a dinner of local foods.Book Your Tour Now
Xi’an is a city with so much to see and experience. From the historical sites to the local foods, there’s something for everyone. By following this guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your time in Xi’an and create memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t forget to include these must-see attractions in your itinerary and immerse yourself in the rich culture of Xi’an.Table of Contents
