Xian Travel Package: 4 Days Xi'an Sightseeing Tour with Mt Hua Hiking

Summary

DAY 1 Arrive in Xian
DAY 2 Xian: Terracotta Warriors, Cooking Class, Shaanxi History Museum
DAY 3 Xian: Mt.Hua (Huashan Mountain)
DAY 4 Xian Departure: Xian Ancient City Wall, Shuyuanmen Cultural Street (Muslim Quarter)

Day 1 Arrive in Xi'an

Welcome to Xi'an! Upon your arrival, our friendly local guide will greet you at the exit of Xi'an airport or Train Station, holding a personalized sign that reads "Your Way Holiday." Embracing our "Travel Like a Local" philosophy, your guide will introduce you to the unique culture and history of Xi'an as you're escorted directly to your hotel. Our experienced driver will ensure a smooth and comfortable journey, allowing you to settle in and soak up the atmosphere of this ancient city. The rest of the day is yours to unwind and recover from your travels, with your guide available to offer local tips and suggestions for exploring like a true insider.

Day 2 Xi'an

After breakfast, your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby to begin your journey to the awe-inspiring Terracotta Army. This incredible site, located just outside of Xi'an, is home to thousands of life-sized terracotta soldiers, horses, and chariots, meticulously crafted over 2,000 years ago to accompany Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife. Discovered in 1974, the Terracotta Army is one of the most significant archaeological finds of the 20th century and has since been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you explore the vast underground vaults, you’ll witness the astonishing detail and individuality of each figure, reflecting the grandeur and might of the Qin Empire. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and reign of China’s first emperor, showcasing the military power and artistic achievements of a civilization that laid the foundation for a unified China. This site is more than just an archaeological marvel; it's a testament to the ambition and vision that shaped Chinese history.

After your visit to the Terracotta Army, you'll be driven back to downtown Xi'an for an authentic cultural experience. You'll have the unique opportunity to visit a local family's home, where you'll be warmly welcomed by the hostess, a skilled and experienced cook. Under her expert guidance, you'll dive into the world of Chinese culinary arts, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to prepare traditional dishes. As you chop, stir, and season, you'll learn the secrets behind recipes that have been cherished and passed down through generations. Whether you’re crafting the perfect Sweet and Sour Spareribs, mastering the technique for Yangzhou Fried Rice, or creating a flavorful vegetarian dish, this hands-on cooking lesson will give you a deep appreciation for the rich flavors and time-honored techniques of Chinese home cooking. It's a wonderful way to connect with local culture, learn new skills, and enjoy a delicious meal that you've prepared with your own hands.

Once you've finished cooking, you'll get to enjoy the delicious dishes you’ve prepared yourself, savoring the authentic flavors and the satisfaction of a meal made from scratch. It's a wonderful way to connect with local culture, learn new skills, and enjoy a delicious meal that you've prepared with your own hands.

Your final stop for today is the Shaanxi History Museum, a treasure trove of ancient Chinese culture located near the iconic Giant Wild Goose Pagoda. This impressive museum, designed in the traditional architectural style of the Tang Dynasty, is one of China's largest and most modern museums. It houses over 370,000 artifacts that span over a million years of history, from prehistoric times to the late Qing Dynasty. As you explore its beautifully curated exhibition halls, you'll encounter an extraordinary collection of relics, including intricate murals, exquisite pottery, ancient coins, and finely crafted bronze and gold objects. Each exhibit offers a window into the rich history and cultural achievements of Shaanxi, a region that has played a central role in China's development for millennia. Dubbed "the pearl of ancient dynasties and house of Chinese treasures," the museum not only showcases the cultural heritage of ancient Shaanxi but also reflects the pinnacle of China's historical and social evolution.

After your visit to the Shaanxi History Museum, you'll be comfortably driven back to your hotel by our professional driver. Throughout the journey, your knowledgeable guide will be on hand to share more insights about the places you've visited and offer suggestions for your evening in Xi'an. With their attentive service, you can relax and reflect on the day’s experiences, knowing that every detail of your journey is being expertly managed. Whether it's answering your questions or providing local tips, your guide and driver work seamlessly together to ensure your day ends as smoothly as it began.

Day 3 Xi'an--Huashan

In the early morning, your guide will pick you up from your hotel for the scenic 2-hour drive to Huashan Mountain, one of China’s Five Great Mountains. Known for its dramatic peaks and breathtaking vistas, Huashan is a must-see destination with its five distinctive peaks: Cloud Terrace Peak (North Peak, 1,613 meters), Jade Maiden Peak (Middle Peak, 2,042 meters), Sunrise Peak (East Peak, 2,100 meters), Lotus Peak (West Peak, 2,038 meters), and Landing Wild Goose Peak (South Peak, 2,160 meters). Your adventure begins at Cloud Terrace Peak, the lowest of the five and the starting point for exploring the mountain.

You have two options for reaching Cloud Terrace Peak: the traditional Huashan Yu (Huashan Gorge) route from the Yuquanyuan Temple at the west gate, or the Huangpu Yu (Huangpu Gorge) trail from the east gate, which features a convenient cable car ride that takes about 6 minutes. After arriving, a short 15-minute walk will lead you to the platform of Cloud Terrace Peak, offering stunning views of Lotus Peak and Sunrise Peak. This journey through Huashan’s rugged terrain and awe-inspiring scenery promises an unforgettable experience, blending natural beauty with a touch of ancient mystique.

Upon arrival at Cloud Terrace Peak, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The rugged terrain and dramatic rock formations stretch out before you, offering a stunning visual feast of nature’s grandeur. The crisp mountain air and serene atmosphere create a perfect backdrop for appreciating the natural beauty of Huashan. If you’re an avid hiker, consider extending your adventure to explore further peaks. The East Peak, known for its stunning sunrise vistas, and the West Peak, with its impressive cliffside views, promise even more spectacular scenery and a deeper immersion into Huashan’s majestic landscape. Each peak offers its own unique perspective, making every step a rewarding experience.

Next, head to Jade Maiden Peak (Middle Peak), named after an enchanting legend of a jade maiden who was once seen riding a white horse among these majestic mountains. This peak offers a serene and captivating environment where you can immerse yourself in the mountain’s mystical atmosphere. From Jade Maiden Peak, adventurous hikers have the option to continue their journey to Sunrise Peak (East Peak). Renowned for its breathtaking sunrise views, this peak is the perfect spot to witness the day’s first light. However, reaching Sunrise Peak requires an early start and a challenging climb in the dark, as there are no overnight accommodations on the mountain. This option is ideal for those seeking a truly memorable experience of Huashan’s awe-inspiring beauty.

Take a well-deserved rest at Sunrise Peak, where you can soak in the tranquil surroundings and enjoy the captivating morning light. From this vantage point, you’ll witness some of the most mesmerizing views of Huashan's dramatic peaks and valleys. Afterward, continue your exploration to Lotus Peak, which lends the mountain its poetic name, "Flower Mountain." Lotus Peak is renowned for its resemblance to a blooming lotus flower, with its elegant, petal-like rock formations rising majestically against the sky. This peak offers a serene and picturesque setting, providing an opportunity to appreciate both the natural beauty and the symbolic significance of Huashan’s landscape.

Finally, you'll take a gondola ride that crosses a steep valley, bringing you to Landing Wild Goose Peak, the highest of Huashan’s five summits. The journey to the summit is both exhilarating and challenging, featuring steep rock faces and a narrow, foot-wide plank walkway secured by a chain along the sheer rock. Steep stone steps add to the adventure, and the path can be particularly treacherous in winter weather. Reaching the summit of Wild Goose Peak provides a striking view of the mountain’s formidable natural defenses, highlighting how its rugged terrain has historically deterred invaders and added to the mountain’s legendary mystique.

After completing your exhilarating tour of Mount Huashan, your guide will meet you at the designated meeting point to facilitate your transfer back to your hotel. As you descend from the mountain, your guide will provide insightful commentary on the day's adventures, offering reflections on Huashan's history and natural beauty. Meanwhile, our professional driver will ensure a comfortable and smooth journey, allowing you to relax and unwind after a day of hiking. Your guide will also be available to answer any last-minute questions or offer recommendations for your evening in Xi'an. With their attentive service, you can enjoy a hassle-free return to your hotel, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences of Huashan’s majestic peaks.

Day 4 Leave Xi'an

Today, your tour begins with a visit to the Xi'an Ancient City Wall, a stunning relic of China's historical grandeur. As one of the oldest, largest, and best-preserved city walls in China, this impressive fortification showcases the complete architectural features of feudal ramparts. Built during the 14th century under the Ming Dynasty's Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang, the wall served as a formidable military defense system designed to protect the city from invasions. Today, it stands as a remarkable testament to ancient Chinese engineering and urban planning. You’ll have approximately half a day to explore its expansive structure, with options to walk along the top or rent a bicycle for a more leisurely tour. Cycling around the wall offers a unique perspective on its massive scale and the ingenuity of ancient Chinese fortification techniques, allowing you to fully appreciate its historical significance and breathtaking views of Xi'an.

Next, head to Shuyuanmen Culture Street, located just south of the Bell Tower in Xi'an. This charming street is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, anchored by the historic Guanzhong Academy. Unlike the grandiose shopping avenues of Beijing’s Dashilan or Shanghai’s Nanjing Road, Shuyuanmen offers a more intimate and authentic experience. The street is lined with quaint shops and stalls specializing in traditional scholarly tools, including the Four Treasures of the Study: writing brushes, ink sticks, ink slabs, and paper. It’s particularly celebrated for its extensive collection of calligraphy supplies and artworks, earning it the nickname "Calligraphy Street." As you stroll through Shuyuanmen, you’ll encounter a unique blend of ancient craftsmanship and cultural ambiance, providing a deep dive into Xi’an’s artistic heritage and offering a perfect opportunity to pick up distinctive souvenirs.

As your enriching tour of Xi'an comes to a close, we will ensure a smooth transfer to either Xi'an Train Station or the airport for your onward journey. Over the past four days, you have experienced the grandeur of the Terracotta Army, the breathtaking peaks of Huashan, and the historical charm of the Ancient City Wall and Shuyuanmen Culture Street. We hope these unforgettable experiences have left you with lasting memories and a deep appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of Xi'an. Wishing you safe travels and a wonderful continuation of your journey, wherever your next destination may be.

Price Per Person in US Dollars