Xi’an: 3-Day Private Tour with Terracotta Army & Hanfu

Traveling to Xi’an offers a chance to step into China’s ancient past, where emperors, warriors, and traders once shaped history. This 3-day private tour promises an immersive experience, bringing you closer to iconic sights and local traditions. While the price of $550 per person might seem steep, the combination of private guides, authentic activities, and cultural insights offers genuine value—perfect for travelers eager for a tailor-made adventure rather than a rushed group tour.

We particularly like the personalized touch—your own guide and driver mean flexibility and in-depth stories that you won’t get on larger tours. The chance to make your own miniature clay warrior and dress in traditional Hanfu provides memorable, hands-on experiences. The only thing to consider is that the pace can be quite full, especially if you want to soak in every detail, so those who prefer a more relaxed pace might find it slightly intense.

This experience caters best to history buffs, culture seekers, and those eager for authentic local encounters. If you’re looking for a comprehensive, well-organized way to explore Xi’an’s highlights with a personal touch, this tour could be a perfect fit.

• Personalized Experience: Private guide and driver create a flexible, tailored itinerary.
• Authentic Activities: Make clay warriors and wear traditional Hanfu for immersive cultural engagement.
• Historical Highlights: Visit major sites like the Terracotta Army, Small Wild Goose Pagoda, and Xi’an Museum.
• Local Flavors: Food tasting in the Muslim Quarter offers a delicious, lively street food experience.
• Less Crowd: Visiting places like Hanyang Tomb means fewer travelers and a more contemplative visit.
• Comprehensive itinerary: From ancient tombs to bustling markets, covering both cultural and historical aspects.

An Introduction to the Tour

Imagine walking through an ancient city where every corner whispers stories of emperors and warriors. This 3-day private tour in Xi’an is designed for travelers who want a deep, personalized look into China’s historic soul. From the awe-inspiring Terracotta Army to dressing in traditional Hanfu, each activity offers a chance to connect with the past in a meaningful way.

What makes this experience stand out is its attention to detail and authenticity. You won’t just glance at ruins or snap photos from afar—you’ll learn how these relics were created, try your hand at traditional crafts, and savor local flavors. The private guide ensures you get tailored insights and the comfort of a smooth, well-organized trip.

A small potential downside is the pace—if you prefer slow travel, you may need to pace yourself carefully. It’s also best suited for those who are comfortable walking and standing during sightseeing. This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts or culturally curious travelers wanting a comprehensive, hands-on experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect

Day 1: Touching the Past at Hanyang Tomb

Your journey begins with a warm welcome from your private guide and driver. The first stop is the Hanyang Tomb, near the airport—home to Emperor Jingdi’s mausoleum. This site isn’t as crowded as other attractions, which means you can absorb the atmosphere without the usual crowds. Here, we loved the way the display of tiny clay warriors under a glass walkway offers a different perspective than the famous Terracotta Army. Their mysterious smiles add a playful twist, and the setup gives insight into ancient craftsmanship.

Visiting this tomb also offers a historical context—it’s a glimpse into the period when the Han Dynasty thrived after the Qin era, tying into the bigger picture of China’s dynastic shifts. Afterward, you’re free to relax at your hotel and enjoy some leisure time.

Day 2: The Terracotta Warriors and Local Crafts

The highlight for many will be the Terracotta Army, about an hour and a half drive from the city. Seeing these life-sized soldiers in person—each unique—brings a real sense of awe. Your guide will explain how they were made, preserved, and originally painted, turning a famous site into a fascinating story. As one reviewer notes, “Discover the army’s secrets with the help of your guide”—it’s a chance to understand the craftsmanship behind this UNESCO World Heritage site.

What sets this tour apart is the clay warrior workshop. Visiting a local shokunin family’s cave dwelling, you’ll learn traditional techniques used over 2,000 years ago. You can mold and carve your own miniature warrior, a fun and tangible connection to history. It also supports local artisans committed to traditional crafts—a nice bonus for those interested in sustainable travel.

Later in the afternoon, you’ll walk along Xi’an’s ancient city wall, offering panoramic views over the city. The walk is a highlight, providing a sense of how ancient defenses protected the city while giving you a chance to see modern Xi’an blending with history.

The day ends in the lively Muslim Quarter, where you can sample traditional dishes and street snacks. Some reviews praise the food: “the food tasting was fantastic, with authentic tastes and viral street snacks.” It’s an energetic, flavorful way to end your day of exploration.

Day 3: Fashioning the Past and Cultural Gems

On your final day, the experience turns to fashion and architecture. You’ll dress in Hanfu, China’s traditional clothing, and don makeup inspired by ancient styles, making you feel like you’ve stepped back into the Tang Dynasty. This set-up not only provides great photo opportunities but deepens your appreciation of Chinese aesthetics.

Next, you’ll visit the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, built during the Tang Dynasty. Its intricate architecture and serene setting make it a peaceful contrast to the bustling city. Nearby, the Xi’an Museum showcases artifacts from various dynasties—pottery, calligraphy, paintings, and sculptures—that tell Xi’an’s story of artistic and cultural development.

The tour concludes with a sense of connection—seeing the relics, trying on traditional costumes, and walking historical sites leaves a lasting impression.

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The Practical Aspects

This tour includes all the essentials: private guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance tickets, and activities like the clay workshop and Hanfu experience. It also offers flexibility with a “reserve now & pay later” option, perfect if you’re planning ahead but want to keep options open.

The vehicle is a private, air-conditioned car with large windows, making for a comfortable ride between sites. Tours are designed for private groups, which means no large crowds or noisy fellow travelers—just your own space to enjoy Xi’an at your own pace.

The price of $550 per person is reasonable considering the personalized service, multiple included activities, and the depth of experience. When you compare that to the cost of individual tickets, guide fees, and activities, it offers good value—especially if you value quality over quantity.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, intimate look at Xi’an—those eager to learn, participate, and connect with history and culture. It’s perfect if you appreciate guided insights and hands-on activities like making clay warriors or dressing in traditional Hanfu. It’s also suitable for visitors who enjoy street food and lively markets.

However, it’s less suited for travelers with mobility impairments or young children under eight. The busy pace and walking involved require a reasonable level of fitness and comfort with crowds and outdoor environments.

This 3-day private tour in Xi’an offers a fantastic combination of history, culture, and authentic local experiences. The guided visits to major sites like the Terracotta Army, the creative clay warrior workshop, and the Hanfu dress-up provide a rich, memorable journey through Chinese history. Plus, the food in the Muslim Quarter promises a vibrant taste of local flavors that will satisfy even the most discerning foodie.

For travelers who appreciate depth, personalization, and engaging activities, this tour delivers a well-rounded look at Xi’an’s past and present. The private setting means you can customize your experience and ask questions that matter most to you, making it a worthwhile investment in your travel journey.

If you’re after a meaningful, well-organized introduction to Xi’an—without feeling rushed or overwhelmed—this tour is a smart choice. Just come prepared for some walking, bring your camera, and get ready to step back in time.

• What is included in the tour price?

The tour includes a private guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance tickets to all attractions, the Hanfu costume experience, clay warrior workshop, food tasting in the Muslim Quarter, private air-conditioned vehicle, and activities listed in the itinerary.

• Is the tour suitable for children?

It’s not recommended for children under 8 years old, mainly due to the walking and activity pace involved.

• Can I participate in the Hanfu dress-up?

Yes, the Hanfu costume experience is optional. Please inform your guide if you wish to participate.

• What should I bring?

Comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water are advised. Be prepared for outdoor walking and changing weather conditions.

• Are there any restrictions?

Smoking and flash photography are not allowed at most sites. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

• What is the duration of the tour?

The tour lasts for three days, with each day carefully planned to maximize your experience.

• What are some highlights of the experience?

Highlights include visiting the Terracotta Army, making mini clay warriors, dressing in Hanfu, exploring the Muslim Quarter, and seeing the Small Wild Goose Pagoda.

• Is there free cancellation?

Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• How flexible is the itinerary?

Since it’s a private tour, your guide can customize some aspects according to your interests and pace.

• How do I book?

You can reserve your spot now and choose to pay later, providing flexibility in your planning.

In essence, this tour is best suited for those who crave a personalized, engaging experience of Xi’an’s culture and history. Whether you’re a history buff, a craft enthusiast, or a foodie, you’ll find plenty to love in this thoughtfully curated journey.

You can check availability for your dates here: