2-Day High-Speed Train Expedition from Beijing to Xi'an: Unveil Terracotta Warriors & Timeless History

Day1 Beijing-Xi'an by High-Speed Train

At Your Way Holiday, we specialize in providing a personalized, immersive travel experience. Your adventure begins with a scenic train ride from Beijing to Xi'an, where you’ll be greeted by your local guide holding a Your Way Holiday sign upon arrival. From there, your guide will ensure an easy transition into your exploration of Xi'an, starting with well-known landmarks like the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda and Bell Tower, before diving into the lively atmosphere of the Muslim Quarter. Over the next two days, you'll experience Xi'an like a local, with a flexible itinerary tailored to your preferences and expert guidance throughout.

Your first stop is the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, one of the most famous landmarks in Xi'an. This historic pagoda, originally built in the 7th century, was constructed to house Buddhist scriptures brought from India. As you step onto the grounds, you’ll be captivated by the serene atmosphere and architectural beauty of this ancient structure. Your guide will share engaging stories about its history, from the Tang Dynasty's flourishing Buddhist culture to its role as a symbol of Xi'an’s spiritual and historical significance. Take your time to explore the temple grounds, where you can also admire sweeping views of the city skyline framed by the towering pagoda.

Next, you’ll head to Yongxingfang Street, a lively district that offers a unique blend of Xi'an’s traditional culture and modern-day energy. This lively street is lined with restored traditional architecture, where you can step back in time and experience the city as it once was. As you stroll down the street, your guide will point out historic buildings, quaint shops, and local handicraft stalls that showcase the area’s cultural heritage. For lunch, you’ll have the chance to savor some of Xi'an’s most famous snacks. Whether it’s savory biangbiang noodles, crispy pita bread soaked in lamb soup, or sweet dumplings, your guide will help you select a variety of delicious dishes that reflect the region’s culinary traditions. As you enjoy your meal, take in the lively atmosphere of this historic district and soak in the local flavors.

After lunch, it’s time to visit the Bell and Drum Towers, two towering structures that stand as symbols of Xi'an’s ancient urban planning. Once used to signal the time to the city’s residents, these impressive buildings now serve as reminders of the city’s storied past. The Bell Tower, which once housed a giant bell, played a vital role in ancient Xi'an, while the Drum Tower, located nearby, was used to announce the time at night. As you climb the stairs to the viewing platform, you’ll be treated to an incredible panoramic view of the city, with its busy streets and modern developments surrounded by ancient architecture. Your guide will share stories about the functions of the towers throughout history, offering insight into the city’s administrative and cultural importance during the Tang Dynasty.

Following this, you’ll head to the historic Ancient City Wall, one of the most well-preserved city walls in China. Standing over 600 years old, this massive structure once protected the ancient capital from invaders. Now, it offers visitors the chance to take a leisurely stroll along its wide, cobblestone pathways, enjoying sweeping views of both the modern and ancient parts of the city. The City Wall is an engineering marvel, and your guide will explain its strategic significance in defending the city and its people. If you're feeling adventurous, you can rent a bike and ride along the top of the wall, experiencing both the history and the beauty of Xi'an in a fun and unique way.

To wrap up the day, you’ll visit the lively Muslim Quarter, known for its lively atmosphere and delicious street food. This area, home to Xi'an's Hui Muslim community, is full of energy, and the busy markets offer a sensory overload of smells, sights, and sounds. Wander through the narrow streets lined with stalls selling everything from handcrafted souvenirs to local delicacies. As you meander through the Muslim Quarter, you’ll also have the chance to learn about the history of the Muslim community in Xi'an, which dates back over a thousand years. With its rich cultural fusion, the area provides a revealing glimpse into the multicultural heart of Xi'an. Afterward, your guide will escort you back to your hotel, ensuring a smooth and comfortable end to your day.

Day2 Xi'an

Start your day early by visiting a traditional morning market, where you’ll be immersed in the lively atmosphere of local life. As you stroll through the market, you’ll see vendors selling fresh produce, spices, and local snacks, giving you a true taste of everyday Xi'an. Your guide will walk you through the busy stalls, offering the chance to sample various breakfast items that locals enjoy. From savory jiamian (noodles), served hot with a mix of vegetables and meat, to sweet tangbao (soup dumplings), filled with rich, flavorful broth, the market is a wonderful introduction to the city’s breakfast culture. You’ll be able to taste fresh, homemade goods, often prepared right in front of you. It’s a great way to see how local life begins each morning, and your guide will help you navigate the market, giving you insights into the regional food traditions. After experiencing the market, you'll feel more connected to the daily routines of Xi'an’s residents, and it’s the perfect way to kick off your day before diving into the city's rich history.

After breakfast, your next stop is the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, located just outside Xi'an. This site is home to one of the most remarkable archaeological discoveries in the world. As you approach the museum, you’ll be taken back in time to the Qin Dynasty, around 2,200 years ago, when Emperor Qin Shi Huang ordered the construction of these life-sized statues to protect him in the afterlife. The museum consists of several massive pits, each containing thousands of warriors, horses, and chariots, all carefully crafted and positioned as though ready for battle. Your guide will provide a detailed explanation of the history of the Terracotta Army, its discovery in 1974, and the ongoing efforts to excavate and preserve these ancient artifacts. As you walk through the museum, you’ll be able to view the soldiers up close, appreciating the incredible craftsmanship and attention to detail. Some warriors have even been left in their original state of excavation, allowing you to see the process firsthand. This experience is a highlight of any visit to Xi'an and offers a unique glimpse into China’s imperial past, giving you a deeper understanding of Emperor Qin’s ambitious vision.

After a morning filled with history, it's time to enjoy a hearty lunch,showcasing the bold and diverse flavors of Xi'an’s cuisine. Xi'an is famous for its rich culinary culture, which reflects the city’s long history as a crossroads for trade and culture. Your guide will recommend a variety of local specialties to try, such as the classic yangrou paomo (lamb soup with bread), a hearty and comforting dish made by tearing flatbread into a rich lamb broth, or mala tang (spicy hot pot), where you can pick from a selection of ingredients like vegetables, meat, and tofu to dip in a spicy, flavorful broth. You’ll also have the opportunity to try other local favorites like biangbiang noodles, which are thick, hand-pulled noodles served with spicy chili oil, and roujiamo, often referred to as a Chinese hamburger, with juicy, marinated pork wrapped in a flatbread. The variety of dishes reflects Xi'an’s multicultural influences, drawing from its history as the starting point of the ancient Silk Road. As you enjoy your meal, your guide will share stories behind these dishes, adding another layer of cultural understanding to the experience. The flavors of Xi'an are diverse and rich, providing a memorable and delicious break from sightseeing.

In the afternoon, you’ll continue your exploration with a visit to Lishan Garden. where you’ll see the famous bronze chariots and horses. These items were buried with Emperor Qin Shi Huang to accompany him in the afterlife, symbolizing his immense power and wealth. The bronze chariots and horses are remarkably well-preserved, offering a glimpse into the sophisticated craftsmanship and technology of the time. As you explore the mausoleum, your guide will explain how these artifacts reflect the emperor’s grand vision of immortality, including the intricate details of the tomb’s construction and the importance of the emperor’s burial rituals. The Lishan Garden surrounding the mausoleum is a beautiful area where you can take a leisurely stroll, surrounded by lush greenery and peaceful scenery. It provides a calm contrast to the vast archaeological site you’ve just visited. As you walk through the garden, your guide will share more insights into the life and legacy of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, including his quest for immortality and his role in unifying China. This afternoon visit will give you a deeper appreciation for the scale and significance of the Qin Empire and the emperor’s lasting influence on Chinese history.

After a fulfilling and rewarding day of exploring Xi'an’s ancient treasures, your guide will escort you back to your hotel or the train station, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free return journey. Whether you’re heading back to Beijing or continuing your travels elsewhere, the experiences of the day will stay with you, offering a deeper understanding of Xi'an's rich history and culture. From the Terracotta Army to the remarkable artifacts at the Qin Shi Huang Mausoleum, you’ll carry with you lasting memories of this ancient city. With your guide by your side, you can relax and reflect on the day, knowing that your Xi'an adventure has been a truly immersive and rewarding experience.

Price Per Person in US Dollars