Private Tour: Terracotta Warriors& Foodie Tour and Seal Carving

Embarking on a private tour in Xi’an, China, can offer a unique and immersive experience. Visitors can explore the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors, a UNESCO World Heritage site, alongside a culinary journey and a captivating seal carving class. This full-day adventure not only provides access to iconic landmarks but also allows travelers to explore the rich cultural heritage of the region. With expert guidance and personalized attention, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression on those seeking to uncover the hidden gems of Xi’an.

This experience made our list of the 15 Best Food Tours In Xian.

Key Points

• Comprehensive full-day private tour of UNESCO World Heritage sites in Xi’an, including the iconic Terracotta Warriors and Ming Dynasty City Wall.
• Immersive culinary experience showcasing renowned Shaanxi dishes like Biang Biang noodles and savory dumplings.
• Hands-on seal carving class to create a unique souvenir and learn about traditional Chinese artistic practices.
• Personalized tour with knowledgeable English-speaking guides, private transportation, and all entry fees included.
• Flexible pacing and tailored exploration of Xi’an’s rich culture, history, and heritage.

Tour Overview

This private full-day tour of Xi’an, China allows visitors to explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Terracotta Warriors, Emperor Qin’s Mausoleum, Ming Dynasty City Wall, Great Mosque, and Big Wild Goose Pagoda.

Travelers will enjoy a local lunch and participate in a seal carving class.

Pickup and drop-off from the hotel, airport, or train station are included.

With an overall rating of 5.0 from 14 reviews, this tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides, personalized experiences, and delicious local cuisine.

The flexible and well-paced private tour format ensures a comprehensive exploration of Xi’an’s rich culture and history.

Inclusions

The private tour includes an English-speaking professional guide, a private air-conditioned vehicle for transportation, and entry fees to the Terracotta Warriors museum, Great Mosque, City Wall, and Big Wild Goose Pagoda.

Travelers will also enjoy a local lunch and participate in a seal carving class, seeing the rich culture of Xi’an.

The tour guide is praised for their knowledge, communication skills, and attentiveness to dietary needs.

Gratuities for the guide and driver are included, ensuring a seamless and worry-free experience.

With the convenience of hotel, airport, or train station pickup and drop-off, this private tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Xi’an’s top attractions and cultural experiences.

Tour Experience

With 14 reviews and a stellar 5.0 overall rating, travelers consistently praise the tour’s personalized experiences, delicious local cuisine, and immersive cultural insights.

Guides are recognized for their exceptional knowledge, effective communication skills, and thoughtful accommodations to dietary preferences.

The highlights of this private tour include:

• Engaging seal carving class where participants create their own unique souvenirs

• Savoring authentic local dishes at a recommended restaurant

• Gaining behind-the-scenes insights into the historical sites from expert guides

• Flexible pacing and personalized attention in the private tour format

Participants appreciate the tour’s ability to provide a comprehensive yet tailored experience, allowing them to fully enjoy Xi’an’s rich history and vibrant culture.

Booking and Cancellation

Pricing for this private tour starts from €206.22, varying based on the group size. Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour date, and bookings receive immediate confirmation upon reservation.

Tour Size	Price per person
1-2	€206.22
3-4	€178.98
5-6	€160.17
7+	€144.86

The private tour format offers flexibility and personalized experiences. While the tour is not wheelchair accessible, the majority of travelers can participate. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable clothing and sun protection, and to bring their own napkins and toilet paper, as public restrooms may lack these amenities.

Traveler Tips

Travelers are advised to wear comfortable clothing and sun protection when embarking on this private tour of Xi’an.

Bringing their own napkins and toilet paper is also recommended, as public restrooms may lack these amenities.

Visitors should also expect security checks at the historical sites, so they should plan accordingly. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate.

Some additional tips for a smooth experience:

• Wear comfortable walking shoes as the tour involves a good amount of walking.

• Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated, especially during the warmer months.

• Familiarize yourself with local customs and etiquette to ensure a respectful visit.

• Be prepared to encounter crowds at popular attractions like the Terracotta Warriors.

Terracotta Warriors

The Terracotta Warriors, a massive collection of life-size clay soldier statues, are the centerpiece of this private tour, offering visitors a profound glimpse into the legacy of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. This UNESCO World Heritage site features three major excavation pits, each showcasing an army of warriors, horses, and chariots meticulously crafted over 2,000 years ago. Visitors can marvel at the attention to detail, impressive scale, and sheer historical significance of this archaeological wonder. The tour guide’s expertise and insights bring the site to life, enriching the experience with cultural and historical context.

Excavation Pit	Size	Number of Soldiers	Discovery Year
Pit 1	14,000 sq. meters	6,000	1974
Pit 2	6,000 sq. meters	2,000	1976
Pit 3	520 sq. meters	68	1976
Mausoleum	56.25 sq. kilometers	–	1974

Local Cuisine

Alongside the cultural exploration, the private tour offers a delightful culinary experience, allowing visitors to savor the rich flavors of Xi’an’s local cuisine.

Guests will enjoy a lunch at a carefully selected local restaurant, showcasing the region’s renowned dishes. The menu may feature:

• Signature Shaanxi noodle dishes, such as the famous Biang Biang noodles

• Savory dumplings, a staple in Xi’an’s diverse food scene

• Tender, slow-cooked lamb dishes, a specialty of the region

• Sweet treats like the iconic Roujiamo, a delectable meat-filled flatbread

The knowledgeable guide provides insights into the history and preparation of these local delicacies, enriching the overall gastronomic adventure.

Seal Carving Class

As part of the private tour, visitors embark on a seal carving class, where they’ve the opportunity to create their own unique seal or ‘chop’, a cherished form of Chinese calligraphy and art.

Under the guidance of a skilled instructor, participants learn the intricate techniques of seal carving, from selecting the right stone to skillfully chiseling their design.

They’ll discover the cultural significance of these personal seals, which have been used for centuries to sign important documents and express individuality.

The hands-on experience allows travelers to bring home a tangible piece of Chinese heritage, further enriching their understanding of the country’s artistic traditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Request a Specific Tour Guide?

Yes, you can request a specific tour guide for this private tour. The tour operator will do their best to accommodate your preference, subject to guide availability at the time of your booking.

Are There Any Photography Restrictions at the Sites?

Photography is generally allowed at the tour sites, but visitors should follow site guidelines. Some areas may have restrictions, such as no flash photography. Travelers are advised to check with the guide for specific photography policies at each location.

How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?

This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, with visitors exploring the major historical sites like the Terracotta Warriors and City Wall. While not strenuous, comfortable walking shoes are recommended to fully enjoy the tour’s highlights.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, a delicious local lunch is included as part of the tour experience, so bringing your own may not be necessary. The tour guide can provide recommendations if you have any dietary restrictions.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, the tour offers flexibility to customize the itinerary. Travelers can discuss their interests with the tour guide and adjust the schedule to visit additional sites or spend more time at specific locations during the private tour.

Recap

This private tour in Xi’an offers a remarkable blend of culture and culinary delight.

Visitors will marvel at the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors, explore UNESCO World Heritage sites, and indulge in local delicacies.

The highlight is the unique seal carving class, where travelers can create a personalized seal while gaining insights into Chinese traditions.

This comprehensive experience provides a truly unforgettable journey through Xi’an’s rich history and vibrant culture.