Practical workshops in Xian cut straight to the heart of this ancient city’s culture. The standout experiences include hands-on cooking classes where you’ll master biang biang noodles and dumplings in local kitchens. For active travelers, bike tours combined with calligraphy lessons offer a perfect mix of exercise and artistry. The best cultural workshops pair Terracotta Warriors visits with art museum stops, while intimate mahjong lessons and home-cooking sessions provide authentic local connections. I especially love the noodle-making workshops – they’re well-organized, affordable, and give you skills you’ll use back home. These tested-and-true workshops made my shortlist for Xian’s most rewarding experiences.
Key Points
- Hands-on noodle and dumpling cooking classes offer an immersive culinary experience in the traditional settings of Xi’an.
- Cultural tours and activities, including biking, calligraphy, and Mahjong, provide a deeper understanding of the local heritage.
- Market visits and ingredient sourcing as part of the cooking classes enhance the authentic learning experience.
- High-rated and well-reviewed classes cater to diverse interests and budgets, with options for various language preferences.
- Accessibility features, such as hotel pickup and wheelchair-friendly tours, ensure inclusive participation for all travelers.
Half-Day Xian Biang Biang Noodles Cooking Class With Spice Market Visit
This half-day cooking class in Xi’an, China provides participants a unique opportunity to learn the art of making the region’s famous biang biang noodles.
With a maximum group size of 15 travelers, the class takes place in a traditional Chinese courtyard or local apartment, offering an authentic cultural experience. Guests will learn to prepare the noodle dough, pull the long, chewy strands, and cook the accompanying sauce.
The class also includes a visit to the local spice market, where participants can interact with vendors and gather ingredients. Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars with 95% of 20 reviews recommending the experience, the class is priced from $65 per person.
While not wheelchair accessible, the class does accommodate strollers and infant seats. Vegetarian options are available upon request.
Whether you’re a novice or seasoned cook, this hands-on noodle-making class promises a delicious and immersive cultural adventure in the heart of Xi’an.
Read our full review: Half-Day Xian Biang Biang Noodles Cooking Class With Spice Market Visit Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Dumpling Cooking Class in Xian Local Family
Travelers seeking an immersive culinary experience in Xian can partake in a private dumpling cooking class hosted by a local family.
This 5-star rated class allows participants to learn the art of preparing authentic Xian cuisine, including dumplings and hot pot. During the class, guests will visit two local markets, gaining insight into China’s ancient capital.
The class is led by a private English-speaking guide, with options for Spanish, French, Italian, or German guides available for an additional fee. A vegetarian menu is also offered upon request.
At the end of the class, guests can enjoy a delicious meal with the local family, savoring dishes like soursweet fried tomato with egg and quickly fried meat with green bean.
Priced from $120 per person, the class includes hotel pickup and drop-off. With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, this private cooking experience presents an excellent opportunity to take in Xian’s culinary traditions.
Read our full review: Private Dumpling Cooking Class in Xian Local Family Review
Book now: Check availability
Biking Tour With Calligraphy Class
Embarking on a unique cultural adventure in Xi’an, travelers can explore the city’s vibrant open-air markets, pedal along the historic City Wall, and enjoy the art of Chinese calligraphy.
This comprehensive tour combines popular sightseeing activities, allowing visitors with limited time to experience the best of Xi’an.
The tour includes transportation by foot, public bus, and bike, ensuring easy access to the city’s highlights. A licensed, English-speaking guide accompanies participants, providing insights and sharing local knowledge.
The calligraphy lesson, led by a skilled master, offers a hands-on opportunity to learn this ancient art form.
With a maximum group size of 12, the tour provides a personalized experience. Wheelchair-accessible transportation and infant seats are available, making it accessible for travelers of all abilities.
The tour is priced at $79.49 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the start time, providing flexibility.
Read our full review: Biking Tour With Calligraphy Class Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Day Tour of Xian Tangbo Art Museum Art Class and Terracotta Warriors
A private day tour through Xi’an’s Tangbo Art Museum and the renowned Terracotta Warriors site promises a captivating cultural experience. Priced from €169.42 per person, this flexible tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a private guide, and transportation by private vehicle.
Visitors will explore the impressive Terracotta Warriors, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and enjoy the art and culture of the Tang Bo Art Museum.
The tour is suitable for most travelers, including those using strollers or wheelchairs. Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts. A Reserve Now and Pay Later option is also offered.
With a 5-star rating based on one review, this tour offers a unique opportunity to discover Xi’an’s artistic and historical treasures.
Read our full review: Private Day Tour of Xian Tangbo Art Museum Art Class and Terracotta Warriors Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Home Cooking Class:Dumpling Cooking Class Tour in Xian
Immerse oneself in the art of Chinese cuisine with a private home cooking class in Xi’an. This half-day experience allows participants to learn how to make authentic regional Chinese food, focusing on the art of dumplings.
Led by an English-speaking guide, the class takes place in a local family’s home, providing an immersive cultural experience.
The cooking process involves mixing flour and water, preparing the stuffing, making the dumpling skin, and forming the dumplings. The menu varies daily, and at least one vegetarian dish is included.
After the cooking session, guests can enjoy the homemade meal along with tea and water.
The class includes hotel pickup and drop-off, all necessary equipment and ingredients, and transportation to and from the attractions.
Wheelchair accessibility and stroller-friendliness make this experience suitable for a wide range of participants.
With a 5-star rating from previous guests, this private home cooking class offers an authentic taste of Xi’an’s culinary traditions.
Read our full review: Private Home Cooking Class:Dumpling Cooking Class Tour in Xian Review
Book now: Check availability
3 Hours Xian Mahjong Class With Local Tea
Participants can enjoy a 3-hour Xian Mahjong class that immerses them in the authentic Chinese culture. The small-group course takes place in a mahjong parlor, with a maximum of 8 participants for personal attention. The class offers options for either afternoon or early evening sessions.
During the class, you will learn the basic rules and strategy of mahjong. They’ll also have the opportunity to play the game, sip tea, and enjoy snacks. The experience includes a professional guide, afternoon tea and food tasting, bottled water, coffee/tea, and snacks. Gratuities are also included.
The meeting point is at the Home Inn Xian Zhonglou West Main Street, accessible via Metro Line 2, Zhonglou Metro Exit D. The class is wheelchair accessible, and stroller and infant seats are available. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Prices start from €58.74 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience. The class has received excellent reviews, with a 5.0 overall rating.
Read our full review: 3 Hours Xian Mahjong Class With Local Tea Review
Book now: Check availability
4-Hour Guided Trip: City Wall Biking and Calligraphy Class From Xian
Travelers seeking an alternative to the renowned Terracotta Warriors can embark on a 4-hour guided trip that combines cycling along the ancient Xian City Wall and a captivating calligraphy class.
This private tour includes an English-speaking guide, private transportation, and all necessary fees and gratuities.
Start the day with a bike ride atop the city wall, taking in the stunning views of Xian. Then, learn about the rich cultural heritage of Shaanxi through a traditional Chinese calligraphy class.
The tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless experience. Priced from $122.57 per person, the tour can be booked with a reserve now, pay later option, and features a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start time.
While not wheelchair accessible, this tour is suitable for most travelers seeking an engaging and unique way to explore Xian beyond the iconic Terracotta Warriors.
Read our full review: 4-Hour Guided Trip: City Wall Biking and Calligraphy Class From Xian Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Xian offers a variety of engaging workshops and classes for visitors. From learning to make traditional biang biang noodles to trying your hand at calligraphy, there’s something to suit all interests. Whether you’re looking to learn about local culture or just have a unique experience, Xian’s workshops and classes provide an excellent opportunity to explore the city in a hands-on way.