Xi’an: Terracotta Warriors, Lishan Garden & Lunch Tour

Traveling to Xi’an offers a chance to step into the heart of China’s ancient civilization. This tour promises a well-rounded glimpse into the city’s most famous sights, balanced with opportunities for hands-on activities and relaxing scenic views. The experience is designed for travelers who want an authentic, immersive day without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

What we love about this tour is the inclusion of the hands-on terracotta warrior crafting, which turns a sightseeing trip into a creative memory. The local lunch gives a taste of Xi’an’s culinary culture, and the visit to Lishan Garden adds a peaceful, scenic touch to the day. Plus, the knowledgeable guides help bring history to life with insightful commentary.

One thing to keep in mind is this tour is not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility issues, as it involves walking and some physical activity. Still, it offers great value for those interested in history and culture, particularly if you prefer a curated experience with flexible booking options.

This tour suits curious travelers eager to understand Xi’an beyond just the famous Terracotta Warriors, blending history, culture, and relaxation in one day.

Good To Know

• In-depth Visit to UNESCO World Heritage Site: Marvel at the lifelike terracotta soldiers, horses, and chariots.
• Creative Experience: Craft your own terracotta warrior for a memorable souvenir.
• Authentic Local Cuisine: Enjoy a Xi’an-style lunch, often a highlight for food lovers.
• Scenic and Relaxing Stop: Lishan Garden offers peaceful surroundings and beautiful bronze chariots.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides enhance the storytelling and cultural insights.
• Flexible Booking & Clear Details: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, and pay later if preferred.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum

This is the star of the day for many travelers visiting Xi’an. As the first stop, the Terracotta Warriors showcase thousands of life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots buried with Emperor Qin Shi Huang over 2,000 years ago. The museum, a UNESCO site, is impressive not only for its scale but for the craftsmanship of the figures, each with distinct facial features and expressions.

Guests have described the experience as “breathtaking,” with one reviewer noting the “sheer size and detail of the warriors” making it a true highlight. Your guide, often fluent in English and Chinese, will provide context about the significance of these figures—originally designed as an eternal army to protect the emperor in the afterlife.

Many travelers appreciate the option to “craft your own warrior” afterward, which turns learning into a practical activity. This hands-on experience allows you to mold a small terracotta figure, offering a keepsake with personal meaning—something reviewers say is “a fun twist” on the typical sightseeing.

The Local Lunch Experience

Following the awe-inspiring museum visit, the tour includes a local lunch that typically features Xi’an’s famous cuisine. Expect dishes that highlight the region’s bold flavors—think hand-pulled noodles, flavorful lamb, and aromatic spices. Many reviewers find this lunch to be “delicious and authentic,” giving a genuine taste of the city’s culinary tradition.

The lunch setting is a great way to unwind and chat with your guide and fellow travelers, often at a restaurant that emphasizes local ingredients. Some reviews mention the buffet style, which offers variety, ensuring there’s something for all.

Crafting Your Own Terracotta Warrior

One of the most unique parts of this tour is the hands-on activity of creating your own terracotta warrior. You’ll work with clay, guided by skilled artisans, to shape and decorate your miniature figure. Reviewers say this activity “makes the experience much more meaningful,” especially for those who enjoy interactive travel.

This craft session is usually well-organized, with enough guidance for beginners and fun for all ages—though minors under 18 need to be accompanied by an adult. If you’re interested in arts and crafts, this part is definitely a highlight.

The Visit to Lishan Garden and Bronze Chariots Scenic Area

After lunch and craft, the tour takes you to Lishan Garden, famed for its bronze chariots and tranquil environment. The bronze chariots are intricate and well-preserved, offering a glimpse into ancient Chinese craftsmanship and chariot technology.

Guests often praise the serene atmosphere of Lishan Garden, where you can relax, stroll, and enjoy the scenery. During your visit, you’ll also sample seasonal fruits and partake in a tea tasting, which adds a calming touch to the day. As one reviewer put it, “The garden is a peaceful retreat after a busy morning of sightseeing.”

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Additional Experiences and Flexibility

If you choose, you can stay longer and watch the “Romance of a Millennium in China” performance—an optional, self-paid show that offers a cultural dance and music experience. Many find it a fitting finale to your day, though it’s not included in the standard package.

Transportation is primarily via air-conditioned vehicle, and the private group setup means a more personalized, less crowded experience. The tour lasts around 10 hours, making it a full but manageable day for most travelers.

Duration & Timing: The full tour runs about 10 hours, with multiple starting times depending on your hotel location. Early mornings or mid-morning options are typical.

Group Size: As a private group experience, you’ll have a dedicated guide, which means more personalized attention and opportunity to ask questions.

Price & Value: While the exact cost isn’t specified here, reviews suggest the price offers solid value considering the inclusion of transportation, entry tickets, a craft activity, and a local lunch. The ability to cancel 24 hours prior for a full refund adds peace of mind.

Accessibility & Restrictions: This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or individuals with mobility challenges, due to walking and activity requirements. Participants must be under age 70, and minors under 18 need adult supervision.

Language & Guides: Guides are fluent in both Chinese and English, blending storytelling with practical information. Their knowledge is frequently praised, with reviews noting how guides clarify the complex history behind the sights.

This experience is particularly well-suited for travelers interested in history, culture, and hands-on activities. It’s ideal for those who want a comprehensive yet relaxed day that covers the essentials without feeling rushed. The inclusion of craftwork adds a memorable, personal touch, especially for creative types or families.

It’s also a good choice for visitors who appreciate professional guidance and want a more curated experience, rather than exploring on their own. The scenic stop at Lishan Garden offers a peaceful diversion, perfect for unwinding after a busy morning at the museum.

However, if you require more accessible activities or are pregnant or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit. Likewise, those seeking a very budget-friendly or quick overview might want to consider other options.

Is hotel pickup available? Yes, the tour includes a convenient hotel pickup, though pickup times may vary depending on your hotel’s location.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change? Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your travel plans.

How long does the full tour last? The entire experience lasts approximately 10 hours, making it suitable for a full-day excursion.

Are meals included? Yes, a local lunch featuring Xi’an’s specialties is included, providing a taste of regional cuisine.

Is the tour suitable for children? Minors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult, and the activity is only open to participants under age 70.

What languages are guides available in? Guides speak both Chinese and English, making the tour accessible for international travelers.

Are there any shopping stops? No, the tour does not include shopping stops, focusing instead on sightseeing and activities.

Can I participate in the “Romance of a Millennium” show? Yes, this is an optional, self-paid extra if you wish to extend your cultural experience.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues? No, due to walking and activity requirements, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments.

This tour offers a carefully curated day exploring Xi’an’s most iconic sights, balanced with creative and relaxing moments. The knowledgeable guides and authentic experiences make it a solid choice for history buffs and culture lovers alike. The hands-on craft activity and scenic garden visit add a personal and tranquil dimension that elevates the standard sightseeing day.

If you’re after a well-organized, immersive, and culturally rich experience that emphasizes genuine local flavor, this tour is definitely worth considering. It provides a meaningful connection to Xi’an’s ancient past, complemented by engaging activities and scenic tranquility—perfect for travelers seeking a memorable, authentic adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby