Xian Top Tour to Terracotta Army and Other Sites: A Comprehensive Guide

Xian is one of the most historically and culturally rich cities in China. It is home to a myriad of ancient world wonders and sites that attract tourists from far and wide. One such site is the Terracotta Army, a collection of life-size terracotta sculptures in battle formations that dates back to the third century BCE. If you’re planning to visit Xian and looking for a tour that covers the Terracotta Army and other prominent sites, look no further than the Xian Top Tour to Terracotta Army and Other Sites. In this guide, we’ll provide you with all the important information you need to know about this tour.

Overview of the Tour

This small-group tour allows you to see two of the most famous and oldest attractions in Xian: the Terracotta Museum and the Old City Walls. You’ll be picked up from your centrally located hotel in Xian and transported to the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum where you’ll have a guided tour to explore the site’s wonders. Afterward, you’ll be taken back to the city by an air-conditioned bus and visit the ancient Old City Walls where you can walk around, take tons of photos, and learn about the remarkable history. For an additional fee, you can rent a bike atop the walls and enjoy a ride with panoramic city views. The tour does not include meals, but there are plenty of places to purchase food during the trip. Please note that this tour is not wheelchair accessible.

What’s Included in the Tour

This Xian Top Tour to Terracotta Army and Other Sites includes the following:

• Pick up and drop off to your centrally located hotel in Xian
• Professional English-speaking tour guide
• Air-conditioned bus with chauffeur
• Meals
• Gratuities

Please note that entrance fees to the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum and Old City Walls are not included in the tour price.

Meeting and Pickup Details

The tour starts at 8:30 AM and the tour guide will pick all travelers at their hotel lobby. Please select your pickup point when booking the tour.

What to Expect on the Tour

The tour itinerary includes the following:

1. The Museum of Qin Terracotta Warriors and Horses: This part of the tour is the highlight and the most exciting part of the experience. You’ll spend around three hours exploring the museum and viewing the terracotta army up close. With a professional English-speaking guide by your side, you’ll learn about the history and significance of the terracotta army and other related historical artifacts.
2. The Bronze Display: You’ll also view the magnificent bronze carriage and the four horses that are part of the larger exhibition.
3. The Old City Walls: Dating back over 600 years, the Old City Walls is another incredible site you’ll visit on this tour. You can explore the top of the walls, rent a bike if you choose to do so, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding city. You’ll also learn about the historical and cultural significance of the walls and how they influenced the city’s development through the years.

Final Thoughts and Booking the Tour

The Xian Top Tour to Terracotta Army and Other Sites is an incredible opportunity to explore some of China’s most important cultural and historical sites. As a small-group tour, you’ll get a more personalized experience with a knowledgeable guide by your side. You can book the tour through Viator using the following link: book the tour here. Make sure to book your tour in advance, dress appropriately, and wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing a lot of walking during the day.

FAQ About Xian

Xian, located in the central part of China, is the capital of the Shaanxi province. It’s a city with a rich history dating back over 3,000 years. It served as the ancient capital for several dynasties and is abundant with cultural heritage, natural attractions, and modern amenities. Xian is also one of the most popular tourist destinations in China. In this FAQ, we will answer some commonly asked questions about Xian.

1. What is the best time to visit Xian?

The best time to visit Xian is during the spring and autumn seasons. The spring season is from March to May, and the autumn season is from September to November. During these seasons, the weather is mild and pleasant, and there are fewer tourists. The summer season in Xian is hot and humid, while the winter season is cold and dry.

2. What are the must-see attractions in Xian?

Xian has many ancient and cultural attractions that are worth visiting. Some of the most popular ones include:

• The Terracotta Warriors Museum
• The Ancient City Wall
• The Bell and Drum Towers
• The Great Mosque of Xian
• The Shaanxi History Museum
• The Big Wild Goose Pagoda

3. What is the Terracotta Army?

The Terracotta Army is a collection of terracotta statues that depict the armies of the first emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang. It’s located about 22 miles east of Xian in the Lintong District. The army consists of more than 8,000 life-sized soldiers, horses, and chariots. The Terracotta Army was discovered by farmers in the 1970s and has since become one of the most famous tourist attractions in China.

4. Can you walk or bike on the Ancient City Wall?

Yes, visitors can walk, bike or even take a carriage ride on the Ancient City Wall. The wall is about 14 kilometers long and encircles the historic center of Xian. It’s the largest and most complete city wall that has survived in China. It was originally built during the Ming Dynasty to protect the city from invaders.

5. What is the food like in Xian?

Xian has a unique cuisine that is known for its Muslim influence. One of the most famous dishes is the Xi’an Roujiamo, also known as Chinese Hamburger, which is a type of meat sandwich. Another popular dish is the biang biang noodles, which are wide and resemble the shape of a belt. Other must-try dishes include yangroupaomo (lamb stew with bread) and roujiamo (pork sandwich).

6. What is the climate like in Xian?

Xian has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C, while winters are cold and dry, with temperatures dropping below freezing. Spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit due to the milder weather conditions.

7. What are the transportation options in Xian?

Xian has a well-developed transportation system. Visitors can use buses, taxis, or the metro to get around the city. The metro system has four lines that connect major tourist attractions and the city center. Taxis in Xian are relatively cheap but make sure to use metered taxis to avoid being overcharged.

8. Is it safe to travel to Xian?

Xian is a safe city for tourists. However, it’s always a good idea to take precautions when traveling abroad. Make sure to keep your valuables in a secure place and be aware of your surroundings. It’s also important to follow local laws and customs.

9. What are some other places to visit near Xian?

There are many other places near Xian that are worth visiting. One of the most popular ones is Huashan Mountain, which is one of the five sacred mountains in China. It’s located about 120 kilometers east of Xian and offers stunning views and hiking trails. Another popular attraction is the Huaqing Hot Springs, which were once used by emperors for bathing and relaxation.

10. Where can I find affordable accommodations in Xian?

Xian has a wide range of accommodation options for all budgets. Hostels and budget hotels are abundant in the city center, while luxury hotels are located in the business district. The best areas to stay in Xian are the Muslim Quarter, South Gate, and the city center. Online booking platforms such as Agoda and Booking.com can help you find affordable accommodation.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Xian: A Comprehensive Guide

Xi’an is undoubtedly one of the most historically rich cities in China. Home to the Terracotta Warriors, Shaanxi History Museum, and many other ancient sites, the city is a hub for tourists who come to explore China’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you have a week or just a few days in Xi’an, there is an abundance of activities and attractions to keep you entertained. In this guide, we’ll take a detailed look at how to spend your time as a tourist in Xi’an.

1. Visit the Terracotta Warriors

The Terracotta Warriors is undoubtedly the most famous attraction in Xi’an. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century. The site is located about an hour’s drive from the city center and comprises three pits, each with its own army of terracotta warriors, horses, and chariots. It is advisable to book your tickets in advance online to avoid long queues at the entrance. The site is open daily from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, and the entrance fee is RMB 220. Additionally, there are English-speaking tour guides available at the site to help you learn more about this incredible historical site.

2. Explore the Shaanxi History Museum

The Shaanxi History Museum is another must-visit attraction in Xi’an. The museum is home to an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the history, art, and culture of the Shaanxi Province, making it a great place to learn more about the area’s rich past. The museum is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, and admission is free. It’s important to note that the museum gets extremely busy during peak season, so it’s advisable to arrive early to avoid the crowds.

3. Walk or Bike along the Ancient City Wall

Xi’an’s ancient city wall was built during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and spans over 13 kilometers. Walking or biking along the wall provides an excellent opportunity to experience the old town of Xi’an and take in some fantastic views of the city. You can rent bicycles at the entrance of the wall or join a guided tour that includes a bike ride along the wall. The entrance fee for the city wall is RMB 54, and it’s open from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm.

4. Embrace the Local Food Scene

Xi’an is home to some unique and delicious food, making it a foodie’s paradise. The city is famous for its Chinese-style hamburgers, known as Rou jia mo, which are made with slow-cooked pork, beef, or lamb stuffed in freshly baked bread. Another must-try local dish is the Yang Rou Pao Mo, a lamb soup that is made by soaking diced bread in mutton soup and then adding chunks of marinated lamb to the mix. Other local delicacies include Biang Biang noodles, spicy crayfish, and Chinese-style donuts. There are numerous food markets and street stalls where you can try these dishes, such as the Muslim Quarter.

5. Visit the Great Mosque of Xi’an

The Great Mosque of Xi’an is one of the oldest and most important mosques in China. It was built during the Tang Dynasty (618-907) and combines traditional Chinese and Islamic architectural styles. Visitors are welcome to visit the mosque and the adjacent Muslim Quarter, a bustling area that is home to an array of shops, restaurants, and handicraft stalls. Admission to the mosque is RMB 25, and the site is open daily from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm.

6. Check out the Bell Tower and Drum Tower

The Bell Tower and Drum Tower are two of the most famous landmarks in Xi’an. They were built during the Ming Dynasty and are located in the heart of the city. Visitors are welcome to climb to the top of the towers for panoramic views of the city. The Bell Tower has a large bell that was used to tell time, while the Drum Tower has a drum that was used to signal the end of the day. The towers are open daily from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, and the entrance fee is RMB 50 for both of them.

7. Visit the Huaqing Hot Springs

The Huaqing Hot Springs is a popular getaway destination for tourists who want to relax in natural hot springs surrounded by picturesque scenery. The site is located about 30 kilometers east of Xi’an and was once the site of an imperial palace during the Tang Dynasty. Visitors can take a dip in the hot springs, explore the palace ruins, or watch the nightly show that depicts the love story of Emperor Xuanzong and his concubine Yang Yuhuan. The site is open daily from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, and the entrance fee is RMB 120.

Book Your Tour Now

Xi’an has an abundance of attractions that cater to all types of travelers, from history buffs to foodies to nature lovers. Whether you have a few days or a week to explore the city, there is no shortage of activities to keep you entertained. By following this guide, you’ll be able to make the most out of your time as a tourist in Xi’an and see all that this ancient city has to offer.