After breakfast, head to admire “the Eighth Wonder of the World” - the Terracotta Army of Emperor Qin Shi Huang (world Heritage), then explore the Ancient City Wall in downtown Xian. Today, you will enjoy cultural activities - Terracotta Warriors DIY for the pottery experience.
In the morning, drive about 40km (about 1hour) to the Terracotta Warriors Museum (Museum of Qin Terracotta Warriors and Horses). Here, you can see the Terracotta Warriors and Horses: an army of around 8,000 soldiers, 130 chariots, 520 horses, and 150 cavalry entirely made of baked clay or terracotta. This Terracotta Army has silently stood guard over the soul of China's First Emperor, Qin Shihuang (259BC - 210BC), until an accidental local farmer digging a well in 1974 struck upon one of the greatest archaeological discoveries in the world. Upon stepping into this "underground military museum," you will encounter two awe-inspiring shocks. The first is the magnitude of the archaeological marvel before you: thousands of life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots arranged in battle formations. The second shock is that the faces of thousands of Terracotta Warriors are still vivid, despite the passage of more than 2,000 years. Each figure is unique, with distinct postures, hairstyles, and armor, making them seem to come back to life in the next moment. During your visit, an knowledgeable guide can take you to highlights of the museum, including Pit One, Pit Two, Pit Three and provide valued explanations and insights that you might not get from simply observing the sculptures on your own.
Afterward, you will have time to sit down and create your own miniature Terracotta Warrior under the guidance of a local potter. With the Terracotta Warrior DIY experience, you will get more idea about how ancient people made the warriors and the culture related to the pottery. After making your own Terracotta Warrior by hand step by step, I'm sure you'll be impressed by the wisdom, craftsmanship, and techniques of the Qin Dynasty (221BC - 206BC).
In the afternoon, you can relax on the Xian City Wall, the only complete ancient city wall in China. Built-in 1370 during the Ming Dynasty (over 600 years ago), it encloses the 36 square kilometers old Xian city center and is the only fortification in China still as an unbroken rectangular circuit. The wall stands between modern Xian and the old city center, witnessing the transformation from a defense system to a city playground. You can take a leisurely walk on the Ancient City Wall to resonate with the echoes of history that the stones reverberate. Nowadays, the City Wall Cycling tour has become popular with locals and tourists. You can rent a bike and cycle on the City Wall (Optional & Self-pay), which offers a panoramic view of the city - a testament to Xi'an's historical significance and modern vibrancy.
Then, explore the local life around the bustling and lively Muslim Quarter (Muslim Street). The Muslim Quarter, over 1,000 years old, is located just behind the Drum Tower, about 430 meters west of the Bell Tower in downtown Xian. The Bell Tower and Drum Tower in the evening light are breathtaking sights to behold. Both ancient structures that date back to the Ming Dynasty (600 years ago) are beautifully illuminated, providing the perfect backdrop for capturing amazing Xian landmark photos where ancient history meets modernity in perfect harmony. Before entering Muslim Street, you may have the chance to view the music fountain and square dancing near the Bell & Drum Tower Square (Zhongulou Square), immersing yourself in the colorful nightlife of Xian like a local.
The Muslim Quarter (Muslim Bazaar) is a paradise mixed with mouthwatering local snacks and unique Muslim culture. Xian is the Starting Point of the Silk Road and Muslim Quarter is one of the must-visit attractions for you to find the Silk Road marks. Don't miss the Great Mosque, an architectural gem that beautifully blends Islamic and Chinese design styles. To watch the Shaanxi Shadow Play, a visit to Gao's Grand Courtyard is highly recommend. Besides, as one of the best-preserved traditional residential courtyards in Xi'an, Gao's Grand Courtyard (open from 8:30am to 22:30pm) itself is worth a visit ,too.
Optional Cultural Experience:
Watching Shaanxi Shadow Play is one of the top things to do in Xi'an (inside Gao's Grand Courtyard). Listed as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, Shadow Puppetry is an ancient entertainment/movie that dates back to the Western Han Dynasty (206BC - 8AD) over 2,000 years ago. It is said that shadow play originated when the favorite concubine of Emperor Han Wudi (156BC - 87BC) died. Han Wudi was heartsick of his empress Li, so an advisor Shaowen invented a way to see the late Empress' spirit through shadows. By the way, Emperor Han Wudi’s father is Emperor Han Jingdi (188BC-141BC), the one buried in the Hanyang Mausoleum (you will visit it on Day 4).
Chinese Shadow Play (Shadow Puppetry, Lighting Play) is a type of folk drama that tells stories and legends through the manipulation of cut-out figures made of animal skins or cardboard. You can see the puppeteers hiding behind the translucent screen while controlling the shadow puppets and humming local tunes to tell stories. Accompanied by the sound of traditional percussion and string instruments, the Shaanxi Shadow Play has a strong local flavor. Contact us if you need help with ticket booking and more.