Travel with Juliet: A 4-Day Family Trip to Xi'an & Mount Hua

Xi'an, one of China's oldest cities, offers travelers a unique blend of historical grandeur and vibrant modernity. Known as the starting point of the Silk Road and home to the famous Terracotta Warriors, this ancient capital is a treasure trove of culture and history. Whether you're wandering through centuries-old streets or immersing yourself in traditional Chinese dress, Xi'an promises an unforgettable experience. Here's how my family and I explored this fascinating city over the course of four days.

3 Days Classic Xian Tour (Best Highlights Plus Enjoyable Pace)

Itinerary: Xian
Highlights: Airport Pickup, Terracotta Warriors, Ancient City Wall, Great Mosque, Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, Shaanxi History Museum

Day 1: Arrival in Xi'an and Discovering the Muslim Quarter

We began our journey with a high-speed train from Chengdu to Xi'an, a smooth and scenic trip that brought us right into the heart of this historical city. After arriving in Xi'an, we checked into a cozy hotel near the iconic Bell Tower and Drum Tower, a great location for anyone wanting to explore the city center.

⋙ High Speed Trains from/to Xian

Once settled, we headed straight to the famous Muslim Quarter, a lively area known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious street food. The array of snacks here is mind-blowing, ranging from savory lamb skewers to sweet pastries. One of my top tips is to start by buying just a small portion of different snacks—this way, you can sample a variety without feeling too full too quickly. If something really delights your taste buds, you can always go back for more! The blend of Chinese and Islamic culture in this area is fascinating, making it a must-see for visitors.

Muslim Quarter Street View and Delicious Lamb Dumplings

Day 2: The Terracotta Warriors and A Hanfu Experience

The first part of our second day was dedicated to one of the most famous archaeological discoveries in the world—the Terracotta Warriors and Horses. We set off early in the morning, eager to explore this vast underground army. Upon arriving at the museum, we decided to hire a guide, which turned out to be an excellent decision. Their insights into the history of the Qin Dynasty and the significance of the Terracotta Warriors greatly enriched our experience. The sheer scale and craftsmanship of the warriors are truly awe-inspiring, a testament to the grandeur of ancient China.

The Terracotta Warriors and Horses (around 210–209 BCE)

After the historical exploration, we shifted to something more lighthearted—experiencing the beauty of traditional Chinese clothing, Hanfu. We headed to the Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City, where visitors can rent Hanfu and walk among the magnificent Tang-style buildings and colorful lanterns. Donning the flowing, elegant robes of Hanfu, we felt like we'd stepped back in time. As the evening approached, the city's vibrant lights came on, casting a magical glow on the streets, especially in Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City, where locals and tourists alike stroll around in traditional attire. For anyone interested in Chinese culture, wearing Hanfu, even just for a few hours, is an experience not to be missed.

⋙ Ultimate Guide to Xi'an Hanfu Experience

Me in traditional Chinese Hanfu

Day 3: Conquering Mount Hua

On day three, we ventured beyond Xi'an to tackle the legendary Mount Hua, known for its steep and dramatic peaks. We opted to take the high-speed train to the mountain, which made the journey quick and convenient. Our chosen route was to take the cable car up to the West Peak, which offered stunning views of the surrounding landscape. This route is perfect for those who, like me, may not be comfortable with intense physical exertion or who might have a fear of heights.

Mount Hua is famous for its perilous paths, some of which cling to the edge of steep cliffs. Though thrilling, it's essential to be cautious and mindful of safety throughout the hike. Despite the challenges, the panoramic views from the peaks make every step worthwhile. Before starting your hike, I highly recommend packing some snacks and water, as buying provisions on the mountain can be difficult and more expensive.

Magnificent Peaks of Mount Hua

After an exhilarating day of adventure, we made our way back to Xi'an in the evening, where we treated ourselves to some hearty Shaanxi cuisine, known for its rich, flavorful noodles and unique dishes.

4 Days Xian Highlights Tour with Mount Huashan Hiking (Most Recommended)

Itinerary: Xian / Mount Huashan
Highlights: Terracotta Warriors, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Mount Huashan, Huashan Plank Walk

Day 4: Heading Home

Our final day in Xi'an was spent relaxing and taking the high-speed train back home, reflecting on all the incredible experiences we'd had. From ancient warriors to mountain treks and traditional culture, Xi'an had offered us a glimpse into China's deep history and vibrant local life.

This trip to Xi'an was an unforgettable family adventure. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, Xi'an has something for everyone.

2 Days Xian City Break (Pick Up from Hotel, Train Station or Airport)

Itinerary: Xian
Highlights: Terracotta Warriors, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Muslim Quarter(snack street)

Are you interested in traveling to Xi'an and Mount Hua with me? Browse our best Xi'an Tour Packages, or just share your travel preferences, and I'll use my experience and knowledge to provide you with an unforgettable customized Xi'an trip.

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Travel with Me

Hi, I'm Juliet. Are you interested in my exploration in Xi'an and Mount Hua? Feel free to contact me and I will be glad to tell you more travel stories about the places I have visited. Or, if you want to customize a tour on your own, I'm always ready to help at any time. With my passion and knowledge, I promise to make the tour memorable and meaningful for you.

Juliet

Travel Consultant

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