Private Day Tour: Qianling Mausoleum and Famen Temple

Exploring China’s rich cultural heritage through a private day tour is an enticing prospect for many travelers. The tour to Qianling Mausoleum and Famen Temple in Xi’an promises an immersive experience, allowing visitors to marvel at the grandeur of imperial tombs and uncover the significance of a sacred Buddhist relic. With convenient pickup, a knowledgeable guide, and all-inclusive pricing, this tour offers a seamless way to explore the country’s history. However, the true allure lies in the opportunity to witness these remarkable sites firsthand and gain a deeper understanding of China’s enduring traditions.

Key Points

• This private day tour from Xian explores the Qianling Mausoleum and Famen Temple, two prominent historical and cultural sites in Shaanxi Province.
• The tour package includes transportation, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees, bottled water, and gratuities, priced at $173.66 per person.
• Pickup and drop-off service is available for hotels within Xian’s 2nd ring road, with additional fees for hotels outside this range.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate, with the exception of non-Buddhist westerners who may find it demanding.
• Comfortable shoes are recommended due to the extensive walking involved, and a vegetarian option is available upon request.

Tour Overview and Details

This private day tour takes visitors to explore the Qianling Mausoleum and Famen Temple in Xian. Priced from $173.66 per person, the tour includes private transportation, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees, and bottled water.

Pickup and drop-off is available for hotels within Xian’s 2nd ring road, with an additional fee for hotels beyond this range. The tour starts at 8:30 am, and travelers will receive confirmation details within 48 hours of booking.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate. Vegetarian options are available upon request, and children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Inclusions

The tour package includes several core elements to enhance the experience.

Travelers will have an English-speaking guide to provide valuable insights throughout the day. Private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle with a licensed driver is included, ensuring a comfortable and convenient journey.

Bottled water will be provided to keep guests hydrated. Entrance tickets to the Qianling Mausoleum and Famen Temple are covered, granting access to these historic sites.

Gratuities for the guide and driver are also part of the package. Optionally, guests can choose to ride a battery cart within the Famen Temple or arrange any desired meals, which would incur additional costs.

Pickup and Meeting Details

For this tour, pickup and drop-off service is available for hotels within the 2nd ring road of Xian city. Additional transfer fees may apply for hotels beyond this range. The tour starts at 8:30 am, and you will receive confirmation about the tour details within 48 hours after booking. The tour operator will contact you at least one day before your travel to provide pickup information.

Start Time	Pickup/Drop-off	Additional Fees
8:30 am	Hotels within 2nd ring road	May apply beyond
Confirmation within 48 hours	Contacted 1 day prior	NA

Tour Participation and Accessibility

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s located near public transportation.

Infants must sit on laps during the tour. Most travelers can participate, and a vegetarian option is available upon request at booking.

Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Comfortable shoes are suggested for the tour, as it involves a significant amount of walking.

The tour is suitable for those interested in exploring the Qianling Mausoleum and Famen Temple, but it may be challenging for Western and non-Buddhist visitors, as noted in the tour review.

Customer Feedback

One traveler’s review of the tour provided a mixed perspective.

Todd T, who visited in July 2018, noted that the tour was "a tough one for a westerner."

While the guide was good, he felt that if you’re a westerner and non-Buddhist, "this isn’t the tour for you."

This was primarily due to the "tons and tons and tons of walking" required throughout the experience.

Qianling Mausoleum

Qianling Mausoleum is a magnificent imperial necropolis located in Shaanxi Province, China. It serves as the final resting place for Emperor Gaozong and Empress Wu Zetian of the Tang Dynasty.

The site features a grand stone archway, intricate stone carvings, and a series of underground chambers. Visitors can explore the expansive grounds, admiring the architectural grandeur and learning about the site’s rich history.

The mausoleum offers a glimpse into the lavish burial practices of ancient Chinese dynasties, providing a profound cultural experience. Despite the extensive walking required, the Qianling Mausoleum is a must-see destination for those interested in China’s imperial heritage.

Famen Temple

Situated in Shaanxi Province, Famen Temple is a renowned Buddhist pilgrimage site and one of the most significant places of worship in China. The temple houses a finger bone relic of Buddha, drawing millions of devotees each year. Visitors can explore the impressive pagoda, marvel at the exquisite Buddhist sculptures, and learn about the temple’s rich history. The site also offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese architecture and provides a serene respite from the bustling city.

Location	Significance	Features
Shaanxi Province	One of the most important Buddhist sites in China	Pagoda, Buddhist sculptures, rich history
Attracts millions of pilgrims annually	Houses a finger bone relic of Buddha	Serene atmosphere

Additional Information

Although the Qianling Mausoleum and Famen Temple are located in different parts of Shaanxi Province, the private day tour conveniently allows visitors to explore both significant historical and cultural sites in a single excursion.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off service for hotels within the 2nd ring road of Xi’an city, with an additional fee for hotels beyond this range. Participants should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for extensive walking. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most travelers. Infants must sit on laps, and children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

• Vegetarian option available upon request
• Bottled water provided
• Gratuities for guide and driver included
• Optional activities like battery cart rides at Famen Temple

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Highlights of the Qianling Mausoleum?

The Qianling Mausoleum features impressive stone carvings and statues, offering insight into the Tang Dynasty’s architectural and artistic achievements. Visitors can explore the underground palace and enjoy the serene imperial tomb complex surrounded by lush hills and gardens.

What Is the Significance of the Famen Temple?

The Famen Temple is a significant Buddhist site that houses an authentic relic of the Buddha’s finger. It’s considered one of the most sacred shrines in China, drawing pilgrims and travelers alike to witness this revered religious artifact.

Can We Take Photos During the Tour?

The tour details do not explicitly state whether photography is allowed during the visit to Qianling Mausoleum and Famen Temple. However, it’s common for visitors to take photos at these historical sites unless otherwise noted by the tour guide or site rules.

How Is the Weather Typically in the Tour Area?

The weather in the tour area is generally mild and pleasant. Summers are warm with low humidity, while winters are cool and dry. Rain is moderate throughout the year, making the tour comfortable for visitors.

Are There Any Local Cuisine Recommendations Near the Sites?

Travelers can find a variety of local cuisine options near the Qianling Mausoleum and Famen Temple sites. Hearty noodle dishes, lamb skewers, and spicy hotpot are popular choices that offer a taste of the region’s distinctive flavors.

Recap

This private day tour provides an immersive exploration of China’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can marvel at the grandeur of the Qianling Mausoleum, the imperial tomb of Emperor Gaozong and Empress Wu Zetian, and then discover the revered Famen Temple, which houses a sacred Buddha relic. With private transportation, an English-speaking guide, and all necessary inclusions, this tour offers a convenient and informative journey into China’s storied past.