Xian photography tour: A Historian Leads You to Read Xian In One Day

Tour Itinerary

Your night in Xi’an kicks off at 6:30 PM. Your private guide and driver are right there at your hotel, ready to take you on a personalized night photography adventure through the heart of this ancient city.  Look for the personalized "Your Way Holiday" signage for easy identification. It’s all about capturing the magic of Xi’an through your lens, whether you’re just starting out with your phone camera or you’re a serious DSLR pro. And if you’ve ever dreamed of doing a Hanfu-themed shoot under the city lights, well, this is your chance. Get ready to make some unforgettable memories.

From the moment you step into the glowing city streets, your guide, well-versed in both local history and visual storytelling, will tailor the tour to your interests. Want to photograph yourself or a loved one in traditional Tang-style costume? We’ll help you strike the perfect pose against beautifully lit backdrops like the Ancient City Wall or the elegant Datang Everbright City. Looking to capture dramatic architectural contrasts, reflections, or long exposures? Bring your tripod, we’ll guide you to the city’s most photogenic spots.

Along your journey, your guide will take you to the South Gate of Xi’an’s City Wall, also known as Yongning Gate—the grandest and most significant gate along the wall. Once used for royal processions and military parades, its majestic towers and solemn bridge now stand as proud symbols of Xi’an’s imperial past. At night, the gate glows with golden lights, offering dramatic angles and textures perfect for architectural photography.

Experienced in both storytelling and visual composition, your guide will help you find the best vantage points and assist with posing and framing. Whether it’s a sweeping city shot or a close-up of ancient stonework, this stop becomes both a historical highlight and a hands-on creative session.

You’ll continue to the Bell and Drum Tower Square, where two 600-year-old towers stand proudly in the heart of Xi’an. By day, their red walls and dark roofs echo the weight of history; by night, they glow under soft lantern light, evoking the ancient rhythm of “morning bell and evening drum.” From the tower, you’ll enjoy a striking view where ancient rooftops meet the stream of modern city life. Your guide, experienced in both storytelling and photography, will help you capture the scene at its best, offering tips on angles, lighting, and how to frame both sweeping cityscapes and close-up details. Whether it’s a long exposure or a thoughtful portrait, this moment will be one to remember.

Make a stop at Yongxingfang Food Block, where shouting vendors fill the narrow alleys with the sounds of woks, cleavers, and laughter. It’s a perfect chance to capture life in motion steam rising from noodle pots, sizzling grills, and the raw energy of a vibrant night market. Later, visit a local night food street, where locals sit roadside drinking beer, playing Chinese drinking games, and toasting to the good life—an authentic, dynamic scene perfect for street-style photography.

Next, we head to Big Wild Goose Pagoda Square and Tang Dynasty Sculpture Street for a peaceful, elegant experience. Located in Xi’an’s southern Da Ci'en Temple complex, the square centers on the iconic Big Wild Goose Pagoda, built in the Tang Dynasty to house Buddhist scriptures brought back by monk Xuanzang. The area features gardens, walking paths, and one of Asia’s largest musical fountains. In the evening, colorful lights and dancing fountains create a stunning scene. Your guide will share the pagoda’s history and Tang-era architecture. Photography lovers will get expert tips on capturing the best angles and lighting, making this a perfect spot to relax, learn, and take memorable photos.

Throughout the evening, your guide will also share fascinating stories behind the locations, blending art and history into one immersive visual experience. Whether you’re shooting portraits, architecture, or city life, you’ll walk away with not just photos, but memories framed with deeper meaning.

By the end of the night, your private guide and driver will escort you back to your hotel. They'll make sure you get there safely and comfortably, so you can relax and enjoy the stunning gallery of shots you've captured. These images will hold the magic of Xi’an after dark, its rhythm, light, and centuries-old soul, all thanks to the guidance of a passionate local expert who knows exactly where to find the hidden beauty after sunset.

Price Per Person in US Dollars