6 Days Chengdu Xi'an Tour by High-Speed Train: Pandas & History

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.