Day Trips Xi An

Day Trips in Xi’an: A Comprehensive Guide

Xi’an, an ancient city rich in history and culture, offers numerous day trip opportunities to explore its surroundings and nearby attractions. Here’s a brief overview of some popular day trips that you might find intriguing during your visit.

  1. Terracotta Warriors and Horses ( Terracotta Army )

    • Distance from Xi’an: Approximately 1 hour by car or bus
    • Highlights: Thousands of life-size terracotta warriors, horses, and chariots created to protect the first Emperor of China in his afterlife
    • Tips: Purchase a combo ticket for Terracotta Warriors (Pit 1, 2 & 3), Terracotta Figurines Exhibition Hall, and Chariot and Horse Pits. Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking a lot.

  2. Hukou Waterfall

    • Distance from Xi’an: Approximately 3-4 hours by car or bus
    • Highlights: The second largest waterfall in China, located at the meeting point of the Yellow and Han rivers
    • Tips: Visit during the rainy season (June to October) to witness its full might. Bring waterproof clothing and a good camera to capture stunning photos.

  3. Mount Hua (Hua Shan)

    • Distance from Xi’an: Approximately 2 hours by car or bus
    • Highlights: One of China’s Five Sacred Mountains, offering breathtaking views and religious sites
    • Tips: Wear sturdy shoes with good grip as the mountain trails can be steep. Consider hiring a guide for safety reasons, especially if you’re not an experienced hiker.

  4. Famen Temple

    • Distance from Xi’an: Approximately 1.5 hours by car or bus
    • Highlights: Home to the Buddhist relic of the finger bone of Sakyamuni, and architectural wonders like the Pagoda of Famen
    • Tips: Respect the temple etiquette and dress modestly. A guided tour can provide a deeper understanding of the history and significance of the site.

  5. Qishan Mountains (Qi Mountains)

    • Distance from Xi’an: Approximately 2 hours by car or bus
    • Highlights: A scenic area with numerous caves, waterfalls, temples, and ancient inscriptions
    • Tips: Visit the Yungu Temple, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in China. Don’t miss the stunning views from the Wuxu Peak.