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

Summary

DAY 1 Arrive in Xian, airport pick up service
DAY 2 Xian: Terracotta Warriors, Cooking Class, Xi'an Museum & Small Wild Goose Pagoda
DAY 3 Xian: Mt.Hua (Huashan Mountain)
DAY 4 Xian Departure: Morning market, 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 a hands-on cooking class that offers an authentic taste of local life. Upon arrival, you'll be welcomed by your cooking instructor, an experienced chef who is passionate about sharing the art of Chinese cuisine. Under her step-by-step guidance, you'll learn how to prepare a selection of traditional Xi'an dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients. From kneading dough for handmade dumplings to stir-frying classic local favorites, every step will be both educational and fun. No prior experience is needed—just bring your curiosity and appetite! Once the cooking is done, you'll sit down together to enjoy the fruits of your labor in a relaxing, home-style setting. It's not just a meal, but a cultural experience that brings you closer to the heart of Xi'an through its food, flavors, and hospitality.

Your final stop for today is the Small Wild Goose Pagoda and Xi'an Museum, a harmonious blend of serene Buddhist architecture and rich cultural heritage. Nestled within a peaceful park in the heart of the city, the Small Wild Goose Pagoda is a charming relic of the Tang Dynasty, standing gracefully for over 1,300 years. Unlike its larger counterpart, this pagoda offers a more tranquil and intimate atmosphere, ideal for reflecting on the spiritual traditions of ancient China. Adjacent to the pagoda lies the Xi’an Museum, a modern yet culturally immersive space that houses over 130,000 artifacts showcasing the historical depth of Xi’an, one of China’s Four Great Ancient Capitals. As you stroll through its thoughtfully curated exhibits, you'll discover exquisite ceramics, jade carvings, ancient calligraphy, and relics from the city's long imperial past. Together, the Small Wild Goose Pagoda and Xi’an Museum provide a perfect finale to your day, offering a window into the religious, artistic, and daily life of the people who shaped this extraordinary city through the ages.

After your visit to the Xian 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 Xi'an departure

Your final day in Xi'an begins with an immersive visit to a traditional Morning market, where locals gather to shop for fresh produce, snacks, and daily necessities. This lively scene offers a rare glimpse into the everyday life of Xi’an residents—expect colorful fruit stands, sizzling breakfast stalls, and the sounds of early-morning bargaining. It’s the perfect way to experience authentic local culture beyond the usual tourist paths. Enjoy a light street-style breakfast if you wish—perhaps a hot bowl of hulatang (spicy pepper soup) or freshly made jianbing (savory Chinese crepe).

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.

Around midday, enjoy a flavorful lunch at a beloved local restaurant near the City Wall, where the ambiance blends traditional décor with the warm bustle of Xi’an’s lunchtime crowd. This is a perfect opportunity to indulge in Shaanxi’s rich culinary heritage, famous for its bold spices, chewy noodles, and hearty flavors shaped by centuries of Silk Road influence. Your meal might begin with a steaming bowl of Yangrou Paomo (crumbled flatbread soaked in slow-cooked lamb broth), a dish that invites you to tear the bread by hand before it’s simmered to perfection. Complement it with a Roujiamo, often hailed as the Chinese hamburger—featuring juicy braised meat tucked inside a crisp, baked bun. For something light and refreshing, try Liangpi (cold-skin noodles), topped with garlic, vinegar, chili oil, and bean sprouts, offering a tantalizing balance of texture and taste.

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.

Wrap up your Xi’an journey with a visit to the vibrant Muslim Quarter, a lively maze of narrow lanes filled with history, culture, and irresistible street food. Located behind the Drum Tower, this historic district blends Islamic heritage with traditional Chinese architecture. Wander past bustling stalls offering crispy beef pancakes, sweet persimmon cakes, and fresh pomegranate juice, while the aroma of grilled skewers and spices fills the air. It's the perfect place to soak in the energy of local life, pick up unique souvenirs, and savor the diverse flavors that define Xi’an’s rich cultural tapestry.

As your enriching tour of Xi'an comes to a close, we will ensure a smooth transfer to your hotel. 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