Xian, the ancient capital of China, holds a wealth of historical treasures waiting to be explored. A guided day tour to Huaqing Palace and the Terracotta Army promises to immerse visitors in the captivating legacy of the Tang Dynasty and the mighty Qin Dynasty. With comfortable transportation, expert guides, and ample time for discovery, this comprehensive experience offers a seamless journey through China’s storied past. From the stunning architecture of Huaqing Palace to the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors, this tour promises to unveil the rich tapestry of Xian’s history. What intriguing secrets and hidden wonders might you uncover on this captivating adventure?
Good To Know
- This guided day tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Xi’an’s iconic historical sites, including Huaqing Palace and the Terracotta Army.
- The tour is priced at $136.35 per person and lasts 10 hours, with a small group size of up to 5 participants.
- Pickup and transportation in a comfortable Buick GL8 MPV, as well as an expert English-speaking guide, are included in the tour.
- Highlights include visiting the Huaqing Palace, the Terracotta Warriors, and the Emperor Qin’s Mausoleum, providing insights into China’s dynastic past.
- Admission tickets for the major attractions are not included and must be purchased separately, with discounted rates for children.
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Tour Overview and Pricing
This guided day tour offers the opportunity to explore some of Xi’an’s most iconic historical sites.
Priced from $136.35 per person, the tour lasts 10 hours and is limited to small groups of up to 5 participants.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can also opt for the reserve now & pay later option.
The tour includes door-to-door pickup from hotels within Xi’an’s third ring road, transportation by a comfortable Buick GL8 MPV, and an expert English-speaking guide.
Admission tickets to the Terracotta Warriors and Huaqing Hot Springs are booked in advance, with payment made to the guide on the tour date.
Transportation and Pickup Details
For this guided day tour, door-to-door pickup service is provided for hotels within the third ring road of Xi’an. Travelers will be transported in a comfortable Buick GL8 MPV. The pickup process is handled by a professional tour guide holding a trekinfini pick-up sign at the hotel. However, additional costs may apply for hotels located outside the designated pickup area.
| Pickup Details | Description |
|---|---|
| Pick-up Location | Hotels within the third ring road of Xi’an |
| Pick-up Vehicle | Buick GL8 MPV |
| Pick-up Personnel | Professional tour guide with trekinfini sign |
| Additional Costs | May apply for hotels outside the designated area |
Itinerary Highlights
The tour kicks off with hotel pick-up between 7:30 – 8:30 AM, followed by a transfer to the first stop – Huaqing Palace.
From 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM, visitors will explore this historical complex set against the backdrop of Mt. Lishan.
After a lunch break, the group heads to the world-famous Terracotta Warriors site from 1:00 – 3:00 PM.
The final stop is Emperor Qin’s Mausoleum, a vast site featuring a 76-meter tall tomb mound and accompanying pits.
The tour wraps up with a transfer back to the hotel around 4:00 – 5:30 PM.
Huaqing Palace Exploration
Visitors spend a memorable two-and-a-half hours exploring Huaqing Palace, a sprawling historical complex nestled at the foot of the majestic Mt. Lishan.
They’ll marvel at the remarkable architecture, including the grand Tang Dynasty-era buildings and natural hot spring pools. The guide shares insights into the palace’s rich history, including its role as a luxurious imperial retreat during the Qin and Han dynasties.
Strolling through the well-preserved grounds, travelers gain a deeper appreciation for China’s dynastic past.
With the scenic mountain backdrop, the Huaqing Palace offers a serene and picturesque start to the day’s adventures.
Terracotta Warriors Visit
After exploring the grandeur of Huaqing Palace, travelers then journey to the renowned Terracotta Warriors site.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site, discovered in 1974, features an astonishing collection of over 8,000 life-size clay soldiers, horses, and chariots.
Visitors can marvel at the intricate details and impressive scale of this ancient army, created to protect the First Emperor of China in the afterlife.
The tour includes ample time to wander through the exhibition halls and see the pits where the warriors are displayed in their original battle formations.
This iconic Xi’an attraction provides a captivating glimpse into China’s rich historical legacy and the extraordinary feats of ancient craftsmanship.
Emperor Qin’s Mausoleum
Following the tour of the Terracotta Warriors, travelers move on to explore the vast Emperor Qin’s Mausoleum.
This massive site features a tomb mound standing 76 meters high, surrounded by nearly 200 accompanying pits. Visitors can wander through the expansive grounds, imagining the grandeur of the original mausoleum complex.
The size and scale of the site are truly awe-inspiring, offering a glimpse into the ambition and power of China’s first emperor.
With expert guidance, travelers learn about the ongoing archaeological excavations and the mysteries still hidden beneath the earth.
This final stop on the tour provides a fitting conclusion to a day filled with the remarkable history and cultural riches of Xian.
Inclusions and Admission Fees
The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, an English-speaking expert guide, bottled water, and transportation. Admission tickets are not included in the tour price and must be purchased separately. The pricing structure for the major attractions is as follows:
| Attraction | Adult | Child (1.2m-1.4m) | Child (under 1.2m) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Terracotta Warriors | $120 | $60 | Free |
| Huaqing Hot Springs | $120 | $60 | Free |
Tickets for these sites are booked in advance, and travelers pay the guide directly on the tour date. It’s recommended to bring a passport or ID card and wear comfortable shoes. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues.
Important Information and Recommendations
For this tour, travelers are recommended to bring their passport or ID card and wear comfortable shoes.
The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility impairments, so participants should consider their physical abilities before booking.
Communication with the tour operator prior to the tour is prompt and thorough, ensuring a seamless experience.
The tour guides provide local restaurant recommendations, avoiding the typical tourist traps.
Feedback from previous travelers highlights the knowledgeable guides and excellent service, making this an attractive option for those seeking an immersive exploration of Xian’s historical treasures.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Possible to Customize the Tour Itinerary?
Yes, the tour can be customized. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the tour operator and adjust the itinerary to accommodate their interests within the overall tour duration and pricing structure.
Can We Stop at Local Markets or Shops During the Tour?
The tour generally has a fixed itinerary, but the guide may be able to accommodate brief stops at local markets or shops if there’s time and interest from the group. Discuss any requests with the guide in advance.
Are Audio Guides or Headsets Provided During the Visits?
The tour doesn’t provide audio guides or headsets. However, the knowledgeable English-speaking guides will provide insightful commentary throughout the visits to help you better understand the historical sites.
Is There an Option to Have a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?
There is an option for a private tour, but it comes at an additional cost. The tour is normally offered as a small group tour limited to 5 participants, providing a more personalized experience compared to larger group tours.
Are Vegetarian or Special Dietary Meals Available During the Lunch Break?
The tour provider doesn’t explicitly mention vegetarian or special dietary options for the lunch break. However, they do suggest local food options, so it’s worth inquiring about accommodations when booking the tour.
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The Sum Up
This guided day tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Xi’an’s rich history. Guests will marvel at the stunning Tang Dynasty architecture of Huaqing Palace, stand in awe of the Terracotta Army, and visit Emperor Qin’s Mausoleum. With seamless transportation, expert guides, and flexible cancellation, it’s an ideal way to experience the ancient legacy of this captivating Chinese city.