Xi'an Cultural Tour: Highlights of Museums Collection

Xian , China

Xi'an Cultural Tour: Highlights of Museums Collection

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About this experience

Embark on an exclusive cultural odyssey led by a seasoned guide, who will curate a bespoke exploration of Xi'an's most renowned museums. Discover the treasures housed within the Xi'an Museum, delve into millennia of history at the Shaanxi History Museum's Qin-Han Pavilion, unearth archaeological marvels at the Shaanxi Archaeology Museum, admire ancient inscriptions at the Beilin Museum, or traverse imperial legacies at the Xi 'an Hanyang Mausoleum Museum.
Each institution serves as a portal to China's storied past, inviting you to uncover the captivating narratives behind iconic artifacts and immerse yourself in the region's profound cultural heritage. Select your two preferred destinations to commence this immersive journey through time.

Available options

Booking options

Your Private Guide will pick you up at your hotel lobby, including Guide and Driver.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Private Tour Guide

Hotel pickup and drop-off.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The Qin-Han Gallery of Shaanxi History Museum in Xixian New Area, China’s only museum dedicated to Qin-Han civilization.
Its architecture, by Zhang Jinqiu, has seven Big Dipper-arranged buildings linked by corridors, reflecting Qin-Han styles.
The core "Unity of the World" exhibition spans two floors with 732 relics. Key units cover: centralized governance, economic monopolies, Confucianism’s rise, writing unification, Han papermaking, and Silk Road exchanges.
Standouts: the Han "Silk Road No.1" ship (China’s earliest wooden vessel, 9.71m long) with Roman-linked techniques; the Qin Du Tiger Tally, a two-part military token.
More relics await. Enjoy exploring Qin-Han civilization!

Xi'an Beilin Museum, a treasure trove of Chinese calligraphy and stone inscriptions. Known as the "Forest of Steles," it houses over 10,000 stone artifacts, spanning 2,000 years.
Its core lies in the 114 Confucian classics steles from the Tang Dynasty, crucial for preserving ancient texts. Masterpieces include Wang Xizhi's calligraphy replicas and Yan Zhenqing's works, showcasing China's calligraphic evolution.
Notable relics: the Nestorian Stele, recording early Christian history in China, and the Stone Classics of Kaicheng. These stones tell stories of culture, religion, and art.
Explore this living library of stone—where history is carved in permanence. Enjoy your visit!

Stop 3

Xi'an Xiaoyanta Museum, where history meets culture. Known as "Jianfu Temple Pagoda," Xiaoyanta was built in the Tang Dynasty (707-709 AD), standing opposite the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda as a symbol of ancient Chang'an.
This 43.3-meter brick pagoda, originally 15-storeyed, features a square base (11.38m per side) and shrinking storeys for elegance. Its door lintel has delicate Tang Dynasty carvings of celestial beings.
The museum holds over 43 Tang-Song steles, including the precious "Attendant Bodhisattva" engraving. Twenty steles record Ming-Qing military exam candidates, aiding research on the system.
Experience Tang charm and profound traditions here. Enjoy your visit!

Xi 'an Hanyang Mausoleum Museum, the burial site of Emperor Jingdi of the Western Han Dynasty and his queen. Built in the 2nd century BC, it's a key site showcasing Han Dynasty burial culture.
The museum features over 8,000 pottery figurines, including soldiers, eunuchs, and animals, all with vivid expressions. These life-sized figures, once clothed in silk, reveal the Han's craftsmanship and social structure.
Notable is the underground museum with glass walkways, letting visitors view excavated pits up close. The relics, from chariots to daily utensils, reflect the emperor's life and the era's prosperity.
It also displays inscriptions and burial objects that shed light on Han politics, economy, and art. A must-visit for understanding China's Han Dynasty. Enjoy exploring this ancient imperial mausoleum.

What's not included

Gratuities

Entry/Admission

Available languages

Guide guide

CMN EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

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4★

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.

A current valid passport is required on the day of travel.

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.