Yan’an to Xi’an Heritage Discovery Tour

Itinerary:
Morning: After breakfast, travel to the breathtaking Ganquan Grand Canyon, known for its dramatic rock formations and otherworldly lighting. As sunlight filters through the narrow canyon walls, it casts shifting patterns on the sandstone, creating a surreal play of light and shadow. Walking through this sculpted wonder feels like stepping into an open-air geological gallery—each turn offering a new visual surprise.
Afternoon: Continue to Yangjialing, once the residence and command center of Mao Zedong and other senior Communist leaders during the Yan'an period. Historic buildings such as the Central Auditorium and former residences stand as silent witnesses to the era's transformative political movements. Next, visit the Yan'an Revolutionary Memorial Hall, a comprehensive museum that chronicles the Communist Party's activities in northern Shaanxi. Immersive exhibits featuring rare artifacts, archival photos, multimedia displays, and reconstructed scenes vividly bring to life the revolutionary journey and the enduring Yan'an spirit.

Attractions:
Ganquan Grand Canyon (Ticket included): Located in Ganquan County, this canyon complex includes scenic sections such as Huashugou, Huabaogou, Longbagou, Mudangou, and Yixiantian. Over centuries, wind and water have carved flowing patterns into the sandstone, creating a vibrant interplay of light, texture, and form. As sunlight streams through the narrow gaps, it transforms the canyon into a surreal and unforgettable landscape.
Yangjialing Revolutionary Site (Free entry): Yangjialing was the Party's headquarters from 1938 to 1943. It includes both the Central Auditorium—a former church where the historic 7th National Congress was held—and the leaders' residences. This site played a vital role during key movements like the Yan'an Rectification and Great Production Campaigns.
Yan'an Revolutionary Memorial Hall (Free entry): Located on the east bank of the Yan River, this large-scale museum offers an in-depth look at China's revolutionary history from 1935 to 1948. With more than 2,000 exhibits—ranging from documents and photos to models, paintings, and restored scenes—the museum presents a vivid timeline of major events, including the formation of the anti-Japanese front and the Party's eventual victory in the Civil War.

Dining:
Breakfast: Included at your hotel
Lunch: Local specialties (own expense)
· Recommended Dishes in Ganquan:
Grated Potatoes, Braised Yellow River Carp, Stir-Fried Spicy Pork, Vinegared Cabbage, Fried Rice Cakes, Potato & Greens Stew, Cold Bitter Greens Salad, Meishui Tofu
Dinner: Local specialties (own expense)

Hotel: Jinze International Hotel, Yanlv·Yan'an Hotel, Yan'an Zhiping Hotel or similar

Itinerary
Morning: Start your day with a visit to Nanniwan, a key site in China's revolutionary history. Once home to the 359th Brigade of the Eighth Route Army, this area was central to a major land reclamation and self-sufficiency campaign. At the Nanniwan Production Exhibition Hall, learn how soldiers and locals turned wilderness into farmland through determination and resilience. Continue to the Revolutionary Site and the Artillery School History Hall, where wartime stories come to life. Stroll through the National Wetland Park, where natural scenery meets living history, and explore Mao Zedong's inspection residence, offering a deeper look into the revolutionary spirit.
Afternoon: Head to the awe-inspiring Hukou Waterfall, where the Yellow River narrows into a roaring chute of muddy-golden water. Watch the thundering cascade and marvel at features like the Ten-Mile Dragon Trough, carved by centuries of natural force. You'll also see stone inscriptions from the Republic of China period, giving you a glimpse into the region's rich cultural past.
Notes:
The Hukou Waterfall Scenic Area may be closed temporarily due to upstream ice flows or high water levels after heavy rains.
In winter, road closures may affect travel to northern Shaanxi.
If affected, alternative sightseeing in Xi'an or other plans will be arranged. We appreciate your understanding.

Attractions:
Nanniwan Scenic Area (Free entry): Known as the birthplace of the "Nanniwan Spirit," this site preserves terraced farmland, monuments, and key revolutionary landmarks. The Production Exhibition Hall vividly presents the 359th Brigade's large-scale farming campaign through photographs and original items. Other highlights include Jiulong Spring, memorial steles, and historic buildings from the revolutionary era.
Hukou Waterfall (Ticket included): Located in the Qin-Jin Grand Canyon, Hukou Waterfall is one of the world's few yellow waterfalls—its unique hue created by the sediment-rich Yellow River. More than just a natural wonder, it stands as a powerful symbol of the Chinese national spirit.

Dining:
Breakfast: Included at your hotel
Lunch: Local specialties (own expense)
Dinner:Local specialties (own expense)
Recommended foods:
· Handmade Noodles & Grains
Yichuan OilwhirlKui: Flaky, savory pastry served with local dipping sauce
Mashi Noodles: Small hand-rolled pasta served in lamb or chicken broth
Hele Noodles: Long, chewy noodles that can be stir-fried or served cold with vinegar and garlic
· Local Snacks:
Yichuan Oil Cake: Sweet, soft cakes made from yellow millet and deep-fried
Shaomomo Flatbread: Thick, golden flatbread, perfect for travel
Tea Oil Twists: Crisp sesame pastries made with fragrant tea oil
· Local Dishes:
Yangrou Paomo (Lamb Bread Soup): Savory lamb stew with hand-torn bread
Sour Soup Dumplings: Juicy dumplings in a tangy, spicy broth
Roast Whole Lamb: Locally raised lamb, roasted for crispy outside, tender inside

Hotel: Shaanxi Dijian Nanshan (Huashan) Hot Spring Hotel, Novotel Huashan or similar

Itinerary:
Morning: Start your day with a scenic ride on the West Peak Cableway, where you'll enjoy breathtaking views of dramatic cliffs and mountain landscapes. Upon reaching the summit, set off on Huashan's legendary hiking trail—famously known as "the only path up Mount Huashan since ancient times." This iconic route leads through thrilling sections like the Thousand-Foot Precipice, Hundred-Foot Gorge, and Laojun Furrow, each carved into steep rock faces and known for their breathtaking intensity.
Afternoon: After completing this exhilarating hike, you'll arrive at the North Peak—one of the mountain's five major summits and also known as Yuntai Peak. Surrounded by sheer drops, it offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and ridgelines, including famous spots like Canglong Ridge, the Chess Pavilion, and Ear-Rubbing Cliff.
Later, descend to visit Xiyue Temple at the base of the mountain. Once a sacred site for imperial worship, this Taoist temple is rich in history and traditional architecture, offering deeper insight into the cultural and spiritual heritage of Huashan.

Attractions:
Mount Huashan Scenic Area (Ticket included): Mount Huashan, formerly known as Xiyue, is one of China's revered Five Great Mountains and a symbolic birthplace of Chinese civilization. The character "华" (hua), found in Huaxia and Zhonghua, is said to originate from this mountain. Renowned for its steep, narrow trails and dramatic cliffside paths, Huashan offers iconic landmarks like the Plank Walk in the Sky, Canglong Ridge, and other thrilling viewpoints.
North Peak (Yuntai Peak) (Free entry): Standing at 1,615 meters, the North Peak is known for its commanding views and striking location. It's a major vantage point for exploring Huashan's dramatic terrain and serves as a fitting highlight of the day's hike.
Xiyue Temple (Free entry): Historically used by emperors to worship the deity of Mount Huashan (Shaohao), Xiyue Temple is rich in Taoist tradition and a great place to explore the mountain's cultural and spiritual legacy.

Dining:
Breakfast: Included at your hotel
Lunch: Huashan Scenic Area specialties (own expense)
Dinner: Local specialties (own expense)

Hotel: Angsana Hotel & Resorts Xi'an Lintong or similar

Itinerary:
Morning: Start your day at Huaqing Palace, a historic site where imperial gardens meet centuries of cultural heritage. Pass through the elaborate Zhaoyang Gate and feel transported back to the grandeur of the Tang Dynasty.
Stroll through the Stele Forest, where ancient stone inscriptions bring history to life. At Muhua Shuiqing, admire the elegant harmony of pavilions, bridges, and serene waters—like walking into a traditional landscape painting.
Climb to the viewing platform for panoramic vistas of Mount Li, then pause at the Sun and Moon Pavilion to soak in the peaceful surroundings. Finish your visit at Dharma Cave, where Buddhist culture and nature blend in a tranquil setting.
Afternoon: In the afternoon, explore the iconic Terracotta Warriors Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987. Spend around 2.5 hours visiting the three main excavation pits—Pit 1 (Main Army), Pit 2 (Cavalry and Archers), and Pit 3 (Command Post)—where thousands of life-sized clay soldiers and horses stand in perfect formation. Created over two millennia ago to guard the tomb of China's first emperor, this underground army is hailed as the “Eighth Wonder of the World.”Afterward, enjoy a hands-on terracotta sculpting experience in a century-old kiln cave.

Attractions:
Huaqing Palace (Ticket Included): Just 30 km east of Xi'an and near the Terracotta Army site, Huaqing Palace—also known as Huaqing Hot Springs—has been a royal retreat for emperors since the Zhou Dynasty. It's known for its natural hot springs and deep historical ties. Highlights include the Imperial Hot Spring Museum, Five-Room Hall (site of the Xi'an Incident), scenic spots like Jiulong Lake and Furong Lake, and architectural gems such as Feishuang Hall, Longevity Hall, Everlasting Hall, and Yu King Temple. The site is a lasting symbol of Tang Dynasty culture.
Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum (Terracotta Warriors) (Ticket Included): Regarded as one of the most significant archaeological finds of the 20th century, the Terracotta Warriors are part of Emperor Qinshihuang's massive burial complex. Over a thousand individually crafted soldiers have been unearthed, each with unique expressions and lifelike detail.
Guided tours through Pits 1, 2, and 3 offer insight into the military structure and artistic brilliance of the Qin Empire. The exhibit vividly showcases the grandeur of China's first imperial dynasty.

Included Activity: Terracotta Warrior Handcraft Experience
With guidance from a skilled craftsman, you'll create your own warrior figurine—an interactive way to understand the artistry and cultural legacy of the Qin Dynasty. Held in a historic cave kiln, this hands-on workshop lets you recreate a miniature terracotta warrior using traditional methods. With materials and expert guidance provided, it's a fun and meaningful way to connect with ancient craftsmanship—and you get to take your creation home.

Dining:
Breakfast: Included at your hotel
Lunch: Local specialties (own expense)
· Recommended Restaurant: Daqin Banquet or Xian Hua Qingyutang Hotel·Yushanyuan Restaurant
Dinner: Local specialties (own expense)

Hotel: Hilton Xi'an (Bell Tower & City Wall Branch), Titan Times Hotel (Yuxiangmen Metro Station Branch) or similar

Itinerary:
Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Xi'an Museum, an cultural complex that combines historical relics with peaceful garden. Discover a wide array of cultural treasures—from Western Zhou bronzeware to exquisite Tang dynasty tri-colored ceramics—tracing the evolution of Chinese craftsmanship across millennia. The museum also hosts rotating exhibits featuring Buddhist sculptures, classical calligraphy and paintings, and jade artifacts. Afterward, take a tranquil walk through the surrounding gardens, where history and serenity intertwine.
Afternoon: In the afternoon, hop on a bike for a ride along the legendary Xi'an City Wall. Begin at Yongning Gate (South Gate), the best-preserved and most iconic section, and pedal past historical landmarks such as Yuxiang Gate, the Corner Tower, the Drawbridge, and the Southeast Watchtower. This route offers panoramic views of both the ancient inner city and the modern skyline, letting you witness how old and new coexist in Xi'an.
Evening: As night falls, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the Grand Tang Mall. This vibrant pedestrian street recreates the elegance and energy of the Tang dynasty with glowing lanterns, street performers, and dramatic Tang-style architecture. Don't miss the spectacular musical fountain show at the north square of the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda.

Attractions:
Xi'an Museum (Free entry): Set within the grounds of Jianfu Temple, Xi'an Museum showcases the city's legacy as a capital through 13 dynasties. The main exhibition, Ancient Capital Xi'an, features city models from the Zhou through Ming periods, illustrating the development of urban life and imperial planning. Highlight artifacts include: Tri-Colored Horse Figurine (Tang dynasty), Tri-Colored Lotus Pedestal Jar and Garlic-Headed Pot (Western Han). The museum also features exhibitions on Buddhist statuary, ancient painting and calligraphy, jade carvings, and rare seals.
Xi'an City Wall (Ticket included): Xi'an ancient City Wall is one of the largest and best-preserved in China. Originally built during the Sui dynasty and expanded during the Ming dynasty (1370–1378), the wall now stretches 13.7 km. Constructed under the directive of Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang's defensive strategy, it combines historical layers from Sui, Tang, and later periods.
Yongning Gate (South Gate) (Free entry): Yongning Gate, the southern entrance to the wall, was built in the Sui dynasty and renamed during the Ming era. It features restored towers and exhibition halls, including a museum showcasing relics and the history of the wall. Yongning Gate is a popular access point for tourists due to its beautiful restoration and proximity to cultural landmarks.
Grand Tang Mall (Datang Everbright City) (Free entry): As the only major Tang-style pedestrian complex in China inspired by the splendor of the Tang dynasty, Grand Tang Mall stands as a cultural icon of Xi'an. Anchored by the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda to the north, the area features attractions like Xuanzang Plaza, the Celebration Square, and multiple themed Tang-style neighborhoods, and comes alive after dark with dazzling lights and performances.

Included Activity:
Xi 'an City Wall Cycling: Cycling along the wall offers a rare vantage point to appreciate the seamless fusion of Xi'an's ancient past and modern present.
(Includes a 3-hour adult bike rental; children's bikes are not available.)
Dress in traditional Han or Tang costumes—complete with hair and makeup: Dress in traditional costumes and step back in time to ancient Chang'an. With music, lights, and a festive ambiance, it's a magical way to experience Tang culture firsthand.

Dining:
Breakfast: Included at your hotel
Lunch: Local specialties (own expense)
Dinner: Local specialties (own expense)

Hotel: Hilton Xi'an (Bell Tower & City Wall Branch), Titan Times Hotel (Yuxiangmen Metro Station Branch), Grand Mercure Xian Renmin Square or similar

Itinerary:
Today: Delve into the rich culture and flavors of Xi'an's Muslim Quarter, the city's most vibrant culinary and cultural hub. Wander its stone-paved alleys lined with traditional Ming and Qing-style architecture, and soak in the distinctive Islamic ambiance. With close to 300 types of local street food on offer, it's the perfect place to try Xi'an's signature dishes—lamb pao mo, roujiamo, and liangpi, among others.
The area is also home to historic mosques like Great Mosque and Dapiyuan Mosque, where Chinese and Islamic architectural styles merge seamlessly. This immersive experience offers a flavorful and cultural farewell to Xi'an.
Evening: Enjoy a private transfer to the airport or train station for your journey home.

Attractions:
Muslim Quarter (Free entry): More than just a single street, the Muslim Quarter is a maze of bustling lanes in central Xi'an—including Beiyuanmen, Beiguangji Street, Xiyangshi, and Dapiyuan—collectively known as "Hui Fang" or "Fang Shang." This lively area is a street food paradise, offering nearly every Xi'an specialty you can think of: grilled lamb skewers, lamb pao mo, soup dumplings, spicy lamb hooves, pickled rice stir-fry, cured meats, liangpi, and lamb patties. After your feast, browse local shops for traditional pastries, dried fruits, and candied snacks—great for souvenirs.
Great Mosque of Xi'an (Free entry): Built in 1878 and restored in 1981, the Xi'an Great Mosque showcases traditional Chinese architecture while embodying the deep-rooted cultural exchange between East and West. It is a remarkable blend of China’s architectural legacy and Islamic religious tradition, reflecting a harmonious blend of architectural traditions.
Dapiyuan Mosque (Free entry): The Dapiyuan Mosque reflects over 600 years of history and faith. Built in the ninth year of the Ming Yongle reign (1411), it remains a key center for the Ihkwani sect of Islam in Northwest China and stands as a striking example of the fusion between Central Plains architectural traditions and Arab cultural influences.

Dining:
Breakfast: Included at your hotel
Lunch: Local specialties (own expense)