Xi'an: Terracotta Army, City Wall & Pagoda Mini Group Tour

Summary

Terracotta warriors up close, city walls under your feet, and Xi’an’s living streets

You’ll stand face-to-face with Xi’an’s Terracotta Army, wander atop ancient city walls with a local guide, see monks at Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and taste life in the Muslim Bazaar—all in one day with no tourist traps or shopping stops. This mini group tour keeps things personal so you can actually take it all in.

What’s the experience like?

"You know, they say every soldier has a different face," our guide Li grinned as we stepped into the first pit at the Terracotta Army Museum. I squinted at the rows of clay figures—thousands of them standing in silent formation—and tried to pick out the differences. It was colder than I’d expected inside, that earthy underground chill. Someone’s phone buzzed but nobody looked away. Li told us about the farmer who found them by accident while digging a well. I caught a whiff of damp clay and dust—honestly, it made everything feel even older.

The drive back to downtown Xi’an was quiet for a bit; everyone sort of lost in their own thoughts after seeing all those warriors. Then Li started pointing out dumpling shops along the road (she swears by one near the South Gate). We got out at Big Wild Goose Pagoda—a little sun glare off its bricks—and she explained how monks brought Buddhist texts here from India along the Silk Road. There were families lighting incense and a breeze carrying something sweet from a vendor cart nearby, maybe candied hawthorn? I didn’t try it but wish I had now.

Walking on top of Xi’an’s old City Wall felt surreal—bikes rattling past and locals waving from below. The stones were warm under my hands, which sounds odd but it stuck with me. Some people rented bikes but I just wandered and watched shadows stretch over rooftops. Our mini group tour (about 10 or 12 people) meant we could ask Li anything—she laughed when I asked if anyone ever gets lost up there (apparently not often). No shopping detours or “special factory visits,” just actual time exploring.

The last stop was the Muslim Quarter. It hit me with noise and color—skewers sizzling, spices in the air, crowds weaving between stalls. A couple from our group decided to stay for dinner near the Bell Tower (Li gave them directions), while the rest of us headed back to our hotels with tired feet and way too many photos on our phones. I still think about those faces in the clay sometimes—you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Terracotta Army and Xi'an highlights

• Pick up at hotel lobby
• Drive 1 hour to Terracotta Army Museum
• Visit Terracotta Army and exhibition hall
• Drive back to downtown Xi'an
• Visit Big Wild Goose Pagoda
• Walk on ancient City Wall
• Arrive at Muslim Quarter for dinner
• Return to hotel or stay for night view

Top questions

How long is the day trip to Xi'an Terracotta Army?

The tour lasts one full day with pickup in the morning and drop-off after visiting all sites.

Is hotel pickup included for this Xi'an mini group tour?

Yes, hotel pickup is included within Xi’an’s Second Ring Road area.

How big is the group on this Terracotta Warriors tour?

The mini group size is about 12 people; rarely slightly more but arrangements are made if so.

Are there any shopping stops or factory visits on this tour?

No shopping detours or factory visits are included—just sightseeing time at each attraction.

What sites are visited on this day trip from Xi’an?

You’ll visit the Terracotta Army Museum, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, City Wall (South Gate), and Muslim Bazaar.

Is lunch included on this Xi’an day trip?

No lunch is included; you’ll have free time to buy food at local spots or in the Muslim Quarter.

Can you rent bikes on Xi’an City Wall during this tour?

Yes, bike rentals are available at your own expense if you want to cycle on the wall.

Does this tour include entrance fees for all attractions?

Yes, entry fees for Terracotta Army Museum, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and City Wall are covered if option selected.

Are infants or children allowed on this mini group tour?

Yes; infants can use prams or strollers and specialized infant seats are available upon request.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup within central Xi’an’s Second Ring Road by air-conditioned minivan; entrance tickets for Terracotta Army Museum, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and City Wall (if selected); unlimited bottled water; an English-speaking local guide; headset for clear explanations; plus drop-off at your hotel if chosen—no shopping stops anywhere along the way.