A 6-Day, 5-Night Xi’an Itinerary:Tracing Chang’an - A Deep Dive into the Ancient Capital
- Sylvia Yang
- Nov 13
- 3 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
Xi’an, historically known as Chang’an, serve as the terminus of the Silk Road and the birthplace of thirteen dynasties. This journey will lead you from the solemn of the Terracotta Army in Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang, immerse you in the passionate romance of Concubine Yang and Emperor Xuanzong, and ultimately, challenge you to embrace the heroic spirit of the martial arts world atop the sheer cliffs of Mount Hua. This itinerary strikes a perfect balance between the weight of history and vibrant local experiences, offering you a journey through time and space.
Day 1: Enveloped by Ancient Walls
The journey begins at the city’s defining landmark -- the Xi’an City Wall. Ascend this massive Ming Dynasty structure in the afternoon for a unique perspective on the city’s fusion of old and new. As dusk falls, you will head to Xi’an’s Drum Tower and Bell Tower, which mark the city’s central axis, dazzling brilliantly when illuminated. The evening culminates with an immersive visit to the Muslim Quarter. Here you will sample the classic “SanQin Combo” -- the Roujiamo (Chinese Hamburger), the Liangpi (Cold Noodle), paired with a local soda called Ice Peak, starting your sensory talk with authentic flavors.
Day 2: Qin and Tang Epic
In the early morning, we head to the “Eighth Wonder of the World” -- the Terracotta Army in Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum. Standing before the massive pits, you will be overwhelmed by the grandeur and military discipline of the Qin Dynasty from over two millennia ago. In the afternoon, you will visit Huaqing Palace at the foot of Mount Li. This palace was the setting for the tragic love story of Emperor Xuanzong and his Concubine Yang Guifei. As evening arrives, you can watch “The Song of Everlasting Sorrow”, the historical dance drama performed at the site where the story unfolded, which transforms the romantic vow “in heaven, may we be two birds with the same wings; on earth, may we be two branches of the same tree” into a vivid artistic spectacle.
Day 3: The Light of Knowledge
Today, we delve into Xi’an’s intellectual heart and everyday life. We begin at the Xi’an Museum for detailed historical collection, then visit the Anrenfang Heritage Museum to observe the structure of common residential areas in the past. Next, we head to Shu Yuan Men (Ancient Culture Street), soaking in the literary and humanistic atmosphere. The highlight is the Beilin Museum (Stele Forest), where you will appreciate invaluable calligraphic masterpieces. The day concludes at Yongqing Fang, a cultural district allowing you to experience the fusion of ancient heritage and contemporary urban life.
Day 4: Pilgrimage to Prosperity
Today’s itinerary unfolds along Xi’an’s main cultural axis. The morning is dedicated to the Shaanxi History Museum, tracing millennia of regional history and admire the gold and silver wares representing Tang prosperity. In the afternoon, visit the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, a Buddhist structure built by Master Xuanzang to house sutras, symbolizing the dissemination of Buddhist culture. As night falls, we enter the fantastical world. First, stroll through the illuminated Tang Paradise to admire the imperial garden. Then, immerse yourself in the Datang Everbright City, where costumed “Poetry Interlocutors” engage visitors in lively exchanges of verse.
Day 5: Ascending the Apex
Taking a pause from the ancient city, today’s itinerary challenges your spirit as we journey to conquer Mount Hua, one of China’s Five Great Mountains, known as the “most precipitous mountain under heaven.” You will ascend directly via the West Peak Cableway, subsequently hike across the South Peak, East Peak, and finally descend via the North Peak Cable Car, thereby maximising your experience of the majestic grandeur of the Mount Hua. During your trek, be sure to seek out the “Sword Debate on Mount Hua” Stele to capture that powerful moment of martial arts epic spirit.
Day 6: Refined Farewell
The final day embraces authentic local life and refined cultural experiences. In the early morning, you will visit the Sajinqiao Morning Market, a perfect place to taste authentic local breakfast and trace genuine urban vitality. The trip concludes with an elegant intangible heritage experience -- Making Tang Guozi. It originated in the Tang Dynasty, served as tea snacks, and is known for its exquisite appearance, embodying traditional Oriental aesthetics. A delectable, self-made treat will ensure you leave this imperial capital with cherished memories.
Want to join this journey, or design your own bespoke China immersion?📩 Email: sylviayx@summer.com.sg to reserve your spot today.
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