Shaanxi province, located in the northwest of China, is a treasure trove of history and culture. Home to the ancient capital of Xi’an and the iconic Terracotta Warriors, Shaanxi has something to offer for everyone, from history buffs to nature enthusiasts. In this post, we’ll be guiding you through a 7-day itinerary that will allow you to experience the best of what Shaanxi has to offer.
Day 1: Arrival in Xi’an
Upon arrival in Xi’an, check into your hotel and take some time to rest and freshen up. In the afternoon, head out to explore the city’s ancient history by visiting the Xi’an City Wall, a well-preserved fortification that dates back to the 14th century. Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the wall, taking in the views of the city below.
For dinner, try some of Xi’an’s famous street food such as roujiamo (a type of Chinese sandwich) or liangpi (cold noodles). Afterwards, catch a performance of the Tang Dynasty Show, a colorful and lively cultural performance that will transport you back in time.
Day 2: Terracotta Warriors and Horses
No visit to Xi’an is complete without a trip to see the Terracotta Warriors and Horses, one of China’s most famous tourist attractions. The site is located about 30 kilometers east of Xi’an and is best visited early in the morning to avoid the crowds. The Terracotta Army, as it is commonly known, is a collection of thousands of life-size clay figures that were buried with the first emperor of China in 210-209 BC.
After visiting the Terracotta Warriors, head to the nearby Banpo Museum. The Banpo Museum is an archaeological site that contains the remains of a Neolithic village that existed around 6000 years ago. It’s a great way to learn about the daily lives of China’s ancient people.
Day 3: Huashan Mountain
Today, we’ll be taking a day trip to Huashan Mountain, one of China’s five sacred mountains and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The mountain, located about 120 kilometers east of Xi’an, is known for its stunning scenery and challenging hikes. Take the cable car to the North Peak for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try the “Plank Walk,” a narrow path along the edge of the mountain that is not for the faint of heart. After a day of hiking and taking in the views, return to Xi’an for dinner and a good night’s rest.
Day 4: Xi’an to Yan’an
Today, we’ll be leaving Xi’an and heading to Yan’an, a city located about 300 kilometers to the northwest. Yan’an is known as the “cradle of the Chinese Revolution” as it was here that the Communist Party of China established its base during the Chinese Civil War.
Upon arrival in Yan’an, check into your hotel and then head out to visit the Yan’an Revolution Memorial Hall, which contains exhibits on the history of the Communist Party in Yan’an. Afterwards, visit the nearby Xiwanzi Revolutionary Memorial Area, where you can see the cave dwellings that served as the party’s headquarters during the war.
Day 5: Mount Huayuan
Today, we’ll be taking a day trip to Mount Huayuan, a scenic mountain located about 60 kilometers from Yan’an. Take a cable car to the top of the mountain for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, or hike to the summit for a more immersive experience. The mountain is also home to several temples, including the Huayuan Temple, which dates back to the Tang Dynasty.
After a day of exploring the mountain, return to Yan’an for dinner and a good night’s rest.
Day 6: Longex Cave and Xixia Tombs
Today, we’ll be visiting two unique and historically significant sites in the Yan’an area. First, we’ll head to Longex Cave, a limestone cave that served as a revolutionary base for the Communist Party during the Chinese Civil War. The cave, which was used as a hospital, a school, and even a printing press, offers a unique glimpse into the party’s history.
Next, we’ll visit the Xixia Tombs, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that contains the tombs of several rulers of the Xixia Kingdom, which existed from the 10th to the 13th century. The tombs, which were built into the sides of a hill, offer a fascinating glimpse into the funerary practices of the ancient kingdom.
Day 7: Departure from Yan’an
Today, we’ll be wrapping up our 7-day itinerary and heading back to Xi’an for our flight home. Before departing, take some time to explore Yan’an’s city center and try some of the local specialties.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Shaanxi province offers a wealth of history, culture, and natural beauty. This 7-day itinerary offers just a glimpse of what the province has to offer, and we hope that it will inspire you to visit and explore Shaanxi further. Don’t forget to bring comfortable walking shoes, and get ready to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of this fascinating province.
