Xi'an: Terracotta Warriors Private Tour & Tang Dynasty Show

Summary

See Xi’an’s warriors up close then taste noodles and dumplings

You’ll come face-to-face with Xi’an’s Terracotta Warriors alongside a local guide who brings their history to life. Taste classic Shaanxi dishes like Biang Biang noodles or join an evening Tang Dynasty Show with a dumpling feast. Expect laughter over lunch, moments of awe among ancient statues, and a glimpse into stories that linger long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the silence—odd for a place as famous as the Terracotta Warriors Museum. Our guide, Ms. Zhang, met us in the hotel lobby (she waved a little too enthusiastically, which made me laugh) and we drove out of Xi’an in this smooth, air-conditioned van. She told stories about the farmers who first found the warriors—her uncle actually knew one of them, apparently—and by the time we got there, I was itching to see if they really looked as serious as in the photos.

No. 1 Pit is just enormous. You walk in and it’s rows and rows of clay soldiers—some missing heads or arms—which somehow makes them feel even more real. There’s this earthy smell, like wet stone after rain, and you can almost hear the hush of everyone staring. Ms. Zhang pointed out tiny details—the way each face is different—and I tried to imagine what it was like when they uncovered them for the first time. I probably asked too many questions but she didn’t seem to mind.

Afterwards we went for lunch at this little spot she recommended (the sign had characters I couldn’t read). The Biang Biang noodles were chewy and spicy—Li laughed when I tried to say “biang” in Mandarin; I definitely butchered it. If you’re doing the afternoon option, you get swept straight into the Tang Dynasty Show after dinner—a blur of silk costumes and music that rattles your chest a bit. The dumpling banquet before was almost too much food; I still think about those lotus root ones sometimes.

It’s strange how a place so old can make you feel new things. The drive back was quiet—I just watched Xi’an lights flicker past and wondered how many stories are buried under this city that nobody’s found yet.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Terracotta Warriors and Tang Dynasty Show

• Meet guide at hotel lobby
• Transfer to Terracotta Army Museum
• Explore No.1, No.2, and No.3 Pits
• Enjoy local lunch with Biang Biang noodles
• Transfer to Tang Dynasty Show venue
• Arrive 20 minutes before show
• Enjoy dumpling banquet with 18 varieties
• Watch Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Show
• Tour ends at Tang Dynasty Palace

Top questions

How long does the private Terracotta Warriors tour from Xi'an take?

The tour lasts about half a day, with morning or afternoon options available.

Is hotel pickup included in this Xi'an Terracotta Warriors tour?

Yes, pickup from your hotel in Xi’an is included.

Can I choose between lunch or dinner on this tour?

Yes, you can select either lunch or dinner depending on your departure time.

Does the tour include tickets to the Tang Dynasty Show?

The Tang Dynasty Show and dumpling feast are included only if you book the afternoon show & dinner option.

Are vegetarian meal options available during the tour?

Yes, vegetarian options are available if requested at booking.

Is this Terracotta Army day trip suitable for families with kids?

Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

How accessible is the Terracotta Warriors Museum for wheelchairs or strollers?

The museum and transportation are wheelchair accessible; strollers are also fine.

What local foods will I try on this Xi'an private tour?

You’ll try dishes like Biang Biang noodles, Rou Jia Mo (meat sandwich), and various dumplings at dinner.

What’s included

Your day includes comfortable hotel pickup and drop-off in Xi’an, all entry fees for both the Terracotta Warriors Museum and (if selected) the Tang Dynasty Show with dumpling feast, plus either lunch or dinner featuring classic Shaanxi cuisine—all guided by a knowledgeable local who handles every detail so you can just enjoy it all.