Tour Style: This 6-day Chengdu and Xi'an tour by high-speed train blends thrilling history, culture, and iconic landmarks with an expert guide bringing each destination to life. In Chengdu, get up close with adorable pandas, stroll charming ancient streets, and marvel at the Leshan Giant Buddha — an engineering masterpiece carved into a cliff. A comfortable high-speed train whisks you to Xi'an, home to the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors and a rich blend of Chinese and Islamic heritage. Walk along the ancient city wall, explore vibrant markets, and uncover centuries of history in world-class museums. With seamless transfers and expert guides ensuring an immersive experience, this tour is perfect for those seeking a swift yet in-depth journey through two of China's most captivating cities.
| Duration | 6 Days 5 Nights |
|---|---|
| Attractions | Chengdu Panda Base, Jinli Street, Wangjiang Pavilion, Leshan Giant Buddha, Terracotta Warriors, Xi'an City Wall, Great Mosque, Muslim Quarter, Bell & Drum Tower Square, Shaanxi History Museum, Big Wild Goose Pagoda |
| Pick-up Point | Your hotel in Chengdu, train station or airport |
| Finishing Point | Your hotel in Chengdu, train station or airport |
| Customizable | Absolutely! |
| Payment Types | Cash, Wire, Paypal, WesternUnion, Wechat, Alipay, Bank transfer |
| Available | Daily |
Arrival at Chengdu airport or train station. Your experienced guide greets you with a "Chengdu Wonder Tours" sign and transfers you to your hotel. Rest and explore at your leisure, or ask your guide for evening recommendations.
Chengdu Panda Base - Explore this world-renowned 200+ acre facility dedicated to breeding, research, and conservation of giant pandas and red pandas. Stroll through lush bamboo groves, observe pandas up close, and visit the nursery to see adorable cubs. Educational exhibits and documentaries showcase China's efforts to protect these iconic animals.
Jinli Ancient Street - Wander this bustling pedestrian street dating back to the Qin Dynasty, lined with charming wooden buildings, red lanterns, and cobblestone paths. Browse local crafts and souvenirs, taste famous snacks like spicy skewers and sweet rice cakes, and enjoy traditional performances including face-changing opera and puppet shows.
Wangjiang Pavilion Park - Visit this tranquil oasis commemorating Xue Tao, the renowned female poet of the Tang Dynasty. Famous for its lush bamboo groves, elegant pavilions, and serene ponds. Climb the iconic Wangjiang Pavilion for panoramic views and visit the Xue Tao Memorial Hall.
Leshan Giant Buddha - Drive 2 hours to this UNESCO World Heritage site. The 71-meter-tall stone statue, carved into a cliff overlooking the confluence of three rivers, is the largest of its kind in the world. Construction began in 713 AD during the Tang Dynasty and took nearly 90 years. Take a boat ride for stunning perspectives of the Buddha's immense size and intricate details. Your guide explains the statue's spiritual significance and its role in calming the turbulent waters. Explore surrounding temples and scenic trails before returning to Chengdu.
After breakfast, take the high-speed train from Chengdu to Xi'an, enjoying scenic views along the way. Upon arrival, your Xi'an guide welcomes you and introduces the city's rich history and vibrant culture. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure — explore bustling markets, taste local cuisine, or rest at your hotel.
Terracotta Warriors - Discover one of the 20th century's most important archaeological finds, a UNESCO World Heritage site discovered in 1974. This vast underground army of over 8,000 life-sized soldiers, horses, and chariots was designed to accompany China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, into the afterlife. Each figure has unique facial expressions and details. Explore three excavation pits and the museum housing bronze chariots and ancient weapons.
Xi'an City Wall - Walk or cycle along China's best-preserved ancient fortification. Built during the Ming Dynasty, this massive structure extends over 13 kilometers, stands 12 meters high, and is wide enough for easy walking or biking. Your guide explains the wall's strategic importance and architectural features including watchtowers, gates, and the moat.
Great Mosque & Muslim Quarter - Visit the Great Mosque, a remarkable fusion of Chinese and Islamic architecture built during the Tang Dynasty. Explore peaceful courtyards and gardens with Arabic calligraphy alongside traditional Chinese design. Then step into the bustling Muslim Quarter for local specialties like roujiamo (Chinese hamburger) and yangrou paomo (lamb stew with bread).
Bell & Drum Tower Square - End the day at Xi'an's vibrant landmark where history meets modern life. The Bell Tower, a stunning Ming Dynasty structure with intricate carvings and golden roofs, offers panoramic city views. Nearby, the Drum Tower houses a collection of ancient drums with vibrant performances if time permits.
Shaanxi History Museum - Explore this treasure trove of artifacts spanning over 1,000 years of history. With a collection exceeding 370,000 items, the museum offers a comprehensive overview of ancient China from the Zhou to Tang dynasties. Highlights include Tang Dynasty tri-colored glazed pottery and intricate Han Dynasty bronze mirrors. The museum building itself is inspired by traditional Tang architecture.
Big Wild Goose Pagoda - Visit Xi'an's iconic symbol and testament to the city's Buddhist heritage. Built in 652 AD during the Tang Dynasty, this seven-story pagoda originally housed Buddhist scriptures brought from India by the monk Xuanzang. Explore the surrounding Da Ci'en Temple complex with beautiful gardens, statues, and inscriptions. Climb to the top for magnificent city views. The North Square features a captivating musical fountain show.
After your visit, your guide and driver ensure a smooth transfer to Xi'an train station or airport for your departure, sharing final insights about Xi'an's rich history and culture.
At Chengdu Wonder Tours, we strive to enhance the depth and flexibility of your travel experience by offering a range of optional additions to our core tour itineraries. Select from a variety of activities and experiences to enrich your itinerary, ensuring a personalized adventure that perfectly aligns with your interests.
Step into a traditional bamboo weaving artisan's studio to experience Sichuan bamboo art. Learn time-honored techniques under experienced craftsmen, weave your own small basket or handicraft, and gain appreciation for this sustainable, intricate art form.
Explore Chengdu's thriving contemporary art scene through guided visits to local artist studios. Meet artists in their creative spaces, observe their work process, and discuss inspirations. Some studios offer interactive sessions where you can participate in small art projects.
"If you miss the Tang Dynasty dinner show, you miss the essence of Xi'an." Enjoy a magical journey through ancient Chang'an with spectacular dance performances while savoring a specialty banquet of incredible dumpling varieties made with the finest ingredients.
Step into the magical world of traditional shadow puppetry. Watch a live performance with vibrant, handcrafted puppets telling stories through charming movements. Then create your own puppet under a master's guidance, from design to final assembly.
Expert consultants with years of local tourism experience, crafting bespoke tour plans tailored to your interests, schedule, and budget.
All certified and experienced guides passionate about sharing deep knowledge of attractions, history, and culture.
Air-conditioned, non-smoking, clean vehicles under 4 years old. Professional local drivers with 10+ years experience.
Genuine local culinary experiences over tourist restaurants. Accommodating vegetarian, Muslim, Chinese, Western, and Indian diets.
Tell us your dream itinerary and we'll make it happen.
Start Planning Your Tour