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Home Xian Tours 3 Days Classic Xian Tour from Beijing, Back to Chang’an in Hanfu
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After exploring Beijing, you're welcome to head south and continue to delve into the profound history of Xi'an (formerly Chang'an), the capital of 13 ancient Chinese dynasties. "Chang'an" means "eternal peace" in Chinese. In 1368, the ruler of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) renamed the city Xi'an (meaning "Western Peace") because it was located in the western part of the Ming Empire. Both Xi'an and Beijing have a history of over 3,000 years. Take our 3-day Classic Xi'an Tour from Beijing, and you'll experience both Ancient Chang'an and Modern Xi'an.

While in Beijing, you learned about the Ming and Qing Dynasties (1368-1912) and the story of the 24 emperors who lived in the Forbidden City about 600 years ago. When you arrive in Xi'an, you'll surely love to travel back to Chang'an to see China's First Emperor's 8,000 Terracotta Army from the Qin Dynasty (221-206 BC) and imagine its golden time in Tang Dynasty (618-904) through its world heritage sites, streets, museums...

Join us for a 3-day Classic Xi'an Tour from Beijing, and you can try wearing Hanfu to walk inside the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda and go back to the Chang'an of the Tang Dynasty. At that time, Chang'an was where the Silk Road started (one of the world's most famous trade routes), monk Xuanzang finished his 17 years of adventure to India (the origin of "Journey to the West"), and Emperor Lilongji and Yangyuhuan was still in love.

Have fun in Xi'an/Chang'an, which used to be the largest, most populous, cosmopolitan, and civilized city in the world, as well as a hub of diverse ethnic identities and religious beliefs. As one of the world's four ancient capitals alongside Athens, Rome, and Cairo, Xi'an is a must-visit city on your China tour. Contact us to start your trip back to Chang'an at the best price and with the best service.

You Can Experience “Must-see & Must-do” with This Tour
Highlight 1: Xian, one of the 4 Great Ancient Capitals of China, is easily recognizable through the 2 World Heritage sites we have selected for you to visit.
3 Days Classic Xian Tour from Beijing, Back to Chang’an in Hanfu
Highlight 2: Visit Terracotta Warriors, the 8th Wonder of the World, to learn about the 2,200-year-old underground army of China's first emperor Qinshihuang.
3 Days Classic Xian Tour from Beijing, Back to Chang’an in Hanfu
Highlight 3: Xian is the eastern departure point of the Silk Road. Chasing the ancient Silk Road's marks through Muslim Quarter and Big Wild Goose Pagoda.
3 Days Classic Xian Tour from Beijing, Back to Chang’an in Hanfu
Highlight 4: Unveil the real story of monk Xuan Zang in Giant Wild Goose Pagoda (World Heritage), whose travels inspired the famous novel, Journey to the West.
3 Days Classic Xian Tour from Beijing, Back to Chang’an in Hanfu
Highlight 5: Join locals for cultural experiences to learn more about Xian food culture, Chinese pottery culture, Hanfu culture, Tang Dynasty culture...
3 Days Classic Xian Tour from Beijing, Back to Chang’an in Hanfu
Highlight 6: Dream about Chang'an (the traditional name of Xi'an) by watching Shaanxi Shadow Play and a night walk in the Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City.
3 Days Classic Xian Tour from Beijing, Back to Chang’an in Hanfu
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Itinerary at a Glance

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Beijing (1 Day)

Transfer to Xian from Beijing by Flight or by High Speed Train

Xian (2 Days)

North Square of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda Music Fountain, Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City, Terracotta Warriors, Terracotta Warriors DIY, Xian City Wall, Bell Tower & Drum Tower Square, Muslim Quarter, Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, Traditional Chinese Hanfu Experience

Itinerary Day by Day

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Day 1 Arrival in Xian from Beijing | Train Station Pick-up and Hotel Check-in, free time to explore Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City

Nihao! Welcome to Xi’an, which served as the capital for 13 dynasties! Upon your arrival at the airport/train station in Xian, the tour guide and driver will meet and greet you at the exit, and then escort you to the well-selected hotel in downtown Xi’an. The rest of the day is free on your own so you can have a good rest in your hotel or explore by yourself around your hotel.

As evening falls, you can take a taxi to pay a visit to the Largest Musical Fountain in Asia, located at the North Square of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. The North Square of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda Music Fountain is controlled by a computer, and the fountains shoot streams of water that vary in height and shape in accordance with the rhythm of music (Water Phantom of Tang). The night view is especially breathtaking when the fountain is illuminated by LED lights. Also, you can have a night view of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, the landmark of Chang’an (ancient Xian) and Xian.

After enjoying the "dance of water", it's time to visit the Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City, which is located near the music fountain. It is a 1,500-meter-long pedestrian street themed with Tang Dynasty culture, featuring buildings with Tang Dynasty (618 - 907) architecture and sculptures telling Tang stories. You can enjoy street performances, a variety of Xi'an food, and shopping here. It creates an immersive atmosphere to take you back to Tang Dynasty, providing a magical experience of walking through time. The best time to visit is at night, after the lights are lit up and people start to gather for fun. It is a place where people can embrace old and new cultures.

DiningDining:
None
AccommodationAccommodation:
Downtown Xian around City Wall
Day 2 Xian City Tour | Terracotta Warriors, Terracotta Warrior DIY Experience, Ancient City Wall, Muslim Quarter

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.

DiningDining:
Breakfast, Lunch
AccommodationAccommodation:
Downtown Xian around City Wall
Day 3 Xian Departure | Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, Airport See-off

After breakfast, head to Giant Wild Goose Pagoda (Big Wild Goose Pagoda) for a Hanfu Costum Experience. Hanfu is the traditional clothing of the Han Chinese, the predominant ethnic group of China for thousands of years. Hanfu is a significant symbol of Chinese civilization, and different stages of Hanfu's development correspond to different Chinese dynasties. Choose your preferred Hanfu and wear it to walk around the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda like the people from the Tang Dynasty. Traditional Hanfu fashion is in vogue now, and you will encounter many locals wearing beautiful Hanfu as you stroll through the courtyards, taking beautiful photos. Enjoy your Hanfu cultural tour inside the ancient buildings while gaining a better understanding of Hanfu, Chinese history, and culture.

The Big Wild Goose Pagoda (World Heritage), built about 1,370 years ago, is one of Xian's most recognizable landmarks and a symbol of the magnificence of the Tang Dynasty. This 7-story pagoda, standing in the tranquil Da Ci'en Temple, is one of China's best examples of a Tang-style pagoda (squarish rather than round). It was completed in AD 652 to house Buddhist sutras brought back from India by the monk Xuan Zang. His travels inspired one of the best-known works of Chinese literature, Journey to the West. Your guide can provide more information about Xuanzang, who set off from Chang'an (the ancient Xi'an) along the Silk Road, spent 17 years traversing 100 countries, and finally arrived in India, the cradle of Buddhism.

After the visit, it is time to end your 3-day Xian tour. You will be escorted to the airport/train station for your flight or high speed train to your next destination.

Trip Extension Ideas: If you want to explore more around China and other Asia destinations rather than return home right away, we would be glad to assist you with an extension trip. Feel free to tell us your ideas!

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your Xian tour, and we are always here working for you and hope to see you again for your next trip to China/Asia. Safe journey!

DiningDining:
Breakfast
AccommodationAccommodation:
/

Price: What’s Included & What’s Excluded

Price: Request
The above price is based on a private tour for 2 people. Price varies depending on travel date, group size, hotel class, program in your itinerary and possible fluctuation of currency exchange rate.

What’s Included?

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Experienced drivers & air-conditioned vehicles
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Professional licensed English-speaking local guide
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Hotel accommodation with breakfasts
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Domestic flights (economy class) or high-speed trains (second class) listed in the itinerary
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Admission tickets, activities, meals listed in the itinerary
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Accident insurance
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Our service from tour planning, handling, operational and finishing your trip

What’s Excluded?

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International airfares
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Entry visa fees
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Personal expenses
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Single room supplement
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Recommended optional activities
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Arrival/departure flights or train on the first and last day
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Tips or gratuities for guides and drivers

Important Trip Notes for Booking a Private China Tour

How do I book a private China tour?
It is very simple to book a private China tour. Select the tour you are interested, and click “Make an Enquiry for Free”. Tell us your demands and likes while submitting the form. During this process, you don’t need to pay immediately. After sending us your requirements, one of our professional travel experts will get back to you within 0.5 to 24 hours. When all the information have confirmed, then you make the deposit. Please feel free to contact the travel expert directly if you have any questions prior to booking.
Extend Your China Tour
The above itinerary is the sample one that most travelers would go like that. The tour can be customized based on your likes, interests and budget. At the same time, if you want to extend this tour, just tell us your favored destinations and things to do. Our professional travel experts will redesign the trip totally for you and your group at the best price. Tell us your ideas now >>
Transportation
In a private tour, it means you will transfer to the tourist attractions in one city by private vehicle. The private car we selected is spacious, comfortable and air-conditioned. And the driver we use are very experienced. As for traveling between two destinations, we use domestic flights (economy seat) or high speed trains (second class seat, usually less than 6 hours). The local guides and drivers will pick you up at the airport/train stations, and escort you to the hotel.
Meals
“B” stands for breakfast. You will have it at your hotel in the morning.
“L” stands for lunch. The restaurants we will arrange for you are all designated tourist restaurants approved by local tourist administration bureau. All are in good sanitary conditions. Your guide will assist you with ordering the dishes.
“D” means dinner. All dinners are excluded in the itinerary. You have the chance to taste some authentic Chinese food and local snacks.
If you have special dietary requirements (vegetarian, halal, kosher, Indian, or gluten-free), please let us know before your booking. We will try our best to take care of you.

Accommodation & Hotel Condition for Your China Tour

Recommended 4 Star Hotel in China
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Recommended 4 Star Hotel in China
Recommended 4 Star Hotel in China
Recommended 4 Star Hotel in China
Have a good sleep everyday is very important during your China tour. In a private tour, you can decide on your own which hotel class you want - luxury 5 star, comfortable 4-star or economic 3-star.
All the hotels in each destination we selected are at good location, close to commercial street or tourist attractions. And, all the hotels we use have a business relationship for many years and they have windows, air-conditioners, hot water, showers, wifi... (except for basic accommodation condition when travel to Mount Everest) to ensure you luxury and comfortable sleep experience. The staff can speak English and they will provide you the high quality service. If you have any requirements, you can ask them to help.

Photo Gallery for This Itinerary

  • Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City
  • Xian Terracotta Warriors
  • Xian Muslim Quarter
  • Giant Wild Goose Pagoda in Xian
  • Shaanxi History Museum
  • Xian Hanfu Experience
  • Bird View of Xian City Wall
  • Xian City Wall
  • Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City
  • Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City
  • Terracotta Army in Xian
  • Xian City Wall
  • Xian Muslim Quarter
  • Gao's Grand Courtyard
  • Giant Wild Goose Pagoda in Xian
  • Xian Hanfu Experience
  • Shaanxi History Museum
  • Xian City Wall

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Trip Style: Private Tour (flexible travel dates & numbers of travelers)
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Tour Code: AOT-TXA-009
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Travel Route: Beijing - Xian
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Features: Architecture, Skyscrapers, Museums, World Heritages, History, Culture, DIY, Hanfu Costume, Calligrap

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(Based on a private tour for two people. Price varies depending on program, travel date, number of people.)

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