Morning Hotel Pickup & Drive to Terracotta Warriors
At the scheduled time in the morning, your friendly English-speaking guide and experienced local driver will pick you up from your downtown Xi’an hotel within the city’s second ring road area.
As you travel approximately one hour toward the Terracotta Warriors site, your guide will introduce the history of Xi’an, once the capital of 13 Chinese dynasties and one of the oldest cities in China. You will also learn about the rise of the Qin Dynasty and the incredible legacy of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, the ruler who first unified China more than 2,000 years ago.
Terracotta Figures Workshop Experience
Before arriving at the museum, stop at a local Terracotta Figures Factory, where skilled artisans continue the ancient techniques used to create Terracotta warrior replicas.
During this interactive visit, you will:
- Observe craftsmen shaping and painting clay warriors
- Learn how the original Terracotta Army was produced
- Discover the cultural and artistic significance of Terracotta sculpture
- Understand the firing and restoration techniques
- Have the opportunity to create your own mini clay warrior as a special souvenir
This workshop experience offers valuable insight into one of China’s most remarkable artistic traditions.
Explore the Terracotta Warriors & Horses Museum
Next, visit the world-famous Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum (秦始皇兵马俑博物馆), often referred to as the “Eighth Wonder of the World.”
Discovered accidentally by local farmers in 1974, this extraordinary archaeological site protects the underground army built for Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s massive mausoleum complex.
You will spend approximately 2.5 hours exploring:
- Pit 1, the largest excavation hall with massive infantry formations
- Pit 2 featuring cavalry, archers, and battle units
- Pit 3 believed to be the military command center
- Ancient bronze chariots and weapons
- Thousands of individually crafted clay warriors, each with unique expressions, hairstyles, armor, and postures
Your guide will explain:
- The emperor’s ambitious burial project
- Ancient Chinese military organization
- Archaeological discoveries and restoration work
- Hidden mysteries surrounding the emperor’s mausoleum
- The historical importance of the Qin Empire in Chinese history
Standing face-to-face with the life-sized soldiers creates a truly unforgettable experience and offers a rare glimpse into ancient imperial China.
Lunch at Local Restaurant
After the museum visit, enjoy a traditional Chinese lunch at a local restaurant.
This break provides time to relax, discuss the morning discoveries, and experience local Xi’an flavors before continuing the afternoon tour.
Return to Xi’an & Visit Ancient City Wall
In the afternoon, return to Xi’an city center and visit the impressive Xi’an Ancient City Wall (西安城墙), one of the oldest, largest, and best-preserved city walls in China.
Originally constructed during the Ming Dynasty, the wall served as a massive military defense system protecting the ancient capital.
Highlights of the visit include:
- Walking along the broad ancient fortifications
- Viewing traditional watchtowers, gates, and battlements
- Learning about the military defense history of ancient Xi’an
- Enjoying panoramic views of the old city and modern skyline
- Taking memorable photographs from one of Xi’an’s most famous landmarks
For travelers seeking a more active experience, bicycle rentals are available at an additional cost, allowing you to ride along the top of the wall and fully appreciate its enormous scale.
Return to Hotel
After the City Wall visit, your guide and driver will escort you back to your downtown Xi’an hotel.
Your memorable Xi’an historical group tour concludes with a deeper understanding of China’s ancient civilization, imperial history, and archaeological wonders.