3-Hour Xian In-depth Cultural Experience

Xian , China

3-Hour Xian In-depth Cultural Experience

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Have an in-depth cultural experience while travelling in Xian, visit the Small Wild Goose Pagoda and Xian Museum to learn the history and culture of the ancient capital city, experience the ancient Chinese art of calligraphy and write your own Chinese Characters, create your own unique piece of the very distinctive visual art of Chinese Paper Cutting with a hands-on lesson, and enjoy a fascinating local ancient Shadow Puppet Performance.

Highlights:
Have an In-depth Cultural Experience of ancient Xi’an
Visit the Small Wild Goose Pagoda and Xian Museum
Experience the ancient Chinese art of calligraphy
Learn the very distinctive visual art of Paper Cutting
Enjoy the local ancient Shadow Puppet Performance

Available options

3-Hour Xian In-depth Cultural Experience

What's included

Chinese art of calligraphy fee

Local English-speaking tour guide

Shadow Puppet Performance fee

Chinese Paper Cutting fee

Entrance fee of specified activities

Detailed itinerary

Flexible Starting Time Between 9:00 - 14:00
Local guide will meet you at the North Gate of Small Wild Goose Pagoda at your preferred time, please indicate your starting time while booking, and arrange your own transportation to the starting point.

3-Hour In-depth Cultural Experience Escorted by an expert local guide
Located on the central axis of the Jianfu Temple in south Xian, Small Wild Goose Pagoda survives from the Tang Dynasty (618-907). Follow your guide to visit Small Wild Goose Pagoda and Xian Museum to learn the history and culture (Approx. 1.5 hours).

Follow your guide to have an in-depth cultural trip, experience the ancient Chinese art of calligraphy (Approx. 20 minutes), create your own unique piece of the very distinctive visual art of Chinese Paper Cutting (Approx. 30 minutes), enjoy the famous Shadow Puppet Performance originated more than 2000 years ago (Approx. 30 minutes). After the trip, you may return to hotel or continue sightseeing by yourself.

What's not included

Any transportation fee

Gratuities to the guide

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Confirmation will be received at time of booking

A current valid passport is required on the day of travel

Please provide your hotel name at time of booking for emergency contact

Passport name and birthdate are required at time of booking for all participants

Expert local guide will meet you at the North Gate of Small Wild Goose Pagoda

Flexible Starting Time Between 9:00 - 14:00, please indicate your starting time while booking

Meeting point

Expert local guide will meet you at the North Gate of Small Wild Goose Pagoda

Important notes

Voucher is for booking confirmation only, local tour guide will help you to get the entrance ticket on site

About Xian

Xian is one of the oldest cities in China, serving as the capital for 13 dynasties, including the famous Tang Dynasty. It is renowned for its rich history, ancient architecture, and as the starting point of the Silk Road. The city offers a unique blend of ancient and modern attractions, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers.

Top Attractions

Terracotta Army

Discovered in 1974, the Terracotta Army is a collection of terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China. It is one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century.

Historical 2-3 hours 150 RMB (including museum)

Ancient City Wall

The Ancient City Wall is one of the oldest and best-preserved city walls in China. It encircles the old city and offers a unique perspective of Xian's history and urban landscape.

Historical 1-2 hours 54 RMB (including bike rental)

Muslim Quarter

The Muslim Quarter is a bustling area known for its vibrant street food scene, historic mosques, and unique Islamic architecture. It offers a glimpse into the multicultural history of Xian.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free (food and shopping costs extra)

Big Wild Goose Pagoda

The Big Wild Goose Pagoda is a famous Buddhist pagoda and a symbol of Xian. It was built in the Tang Dynasty and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The surrounding area is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Historical 1-2 hours 50 RMB (including museum)

Shaanxi History Museum

The Shaanxi History Museum is one of the most important museums in China, showcasing the rich history and culture of the Shaanxi region. It houses a vast collection of artifacts spanning thousands of years.

Museum 1-2 hours Free (but requires a reservation)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Roujiamo

Also known as the Chinese burger, it consists of braised pork belly stuffed in a crispy flatbread.

Snack Contains pork

Liangpi

Cold noodles made from wheat or rice flour, served with a spicy sauce and various toppings.

Dish Vegetarian options available

Yangrou Paomo

Lamb soup with bread pieces, a staple dish in Xian.

Dish Contains lamb

Biangbiang Noodles

Wide, hand-pulled noodles with a thick, chewy texture, often served with a spicy sauce.

Dish Vegetarian options available

Popular Activities

Hiking in Lishan Mountain Biking along the Ancient City Wall Visiting Huaqing Palace hot springs Tea tasting in local teahouses Exploring the Terracotta Army Visiting the Shaanxi History Museum Walking the Ancient City Wall at sunset Trying local street food in the Muslim Quarter

Best Time to Visit

April to October

This is the best time to visit Xian as the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. The city hosts various festivals and events during this period.

15°C to 35°C 59°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Chinese (Mandarin)
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Xian is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:

• Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps like Didi Chuxing.
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or tours.
• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.

Getting there

By air

Xian Xianyang International Airport • 40 km from city center

By train

Xian Railway Station, Xian North Railway Station

By bus

Xian Long-distance Bus Station, Xian North Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Xian Metro is efficient and covers most major attractions. It's the fastest way to get around the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Didi Chuxing

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Yanta District Beilin District Muslim Quarter Qujiang New District

Day trips

Huaqing Palace

15 km from city center • Half day

Huaqing Palace is a complex of hot springs and palaces known for its historical significance and beautiful gardens. It was a favorite retreat for emperors and is associated with the Tang Dynasty.

Lishan Mountain

20 km from city center • Full day

Lishan Mountain is a scenic area known for its natural beauty, hiking trails, and historical sites. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular spot for outdoor activities.

Famen Temple

120 km from city center • Full day

Famen Temple is one of the most important Buddhist temples in China, known for housing the relics of the Buddha. It is a significant pilgrimage site and offers a peaceful retreat from the city.

Festivals

Chinese New Year • January or February (varies) Lantern Festival • 15th day of the first lunar month Qinling Mountain Marathon • October

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Chinese phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals.
Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.
Try local street food, but choose busy stalls with high turnover to ensure freshness and food safety.
Use the metro or bike-sharing services to get around the city efficiently and affordably.
Book tickets for popular attractions like the Terracotta Army in advance to avoid long queues.