For the past 10 years, this WLE study and travel destination has been the most popular for Beijing programs.

Xian served as China’s imperial capital for eleven dynasties. From the 11th century BC, the Han, Sui, Tang, Ming and Qin dynasties ruled China from this ancient city. Emperor Qin Shihuang, the emperor who unified China made Xian the seat of power. During this period, all roads led to Xian, and it became the final destination of the Silk Road. Xian grew to become a center of international trade that today reflects its multicultural society.

Modern day Xian is located in the Shaanxi province. A trip to Xian is a must for those interested in learning about China’s history and culture. The world renowned Terracotta Warriors guarding the tomb of the Emperor Qin provide a fascinating insight into the ancient dynasties and their intriguing cultures. This comprehensive tour presents Xian’s wealth of historic sites and relics from the Terracotta Army of the Qin Emperor, Neolithic Banpo Village, The Goose Pagodas of the Tang Dynasty to the city’s Ming Walls and Drum Towers.

The tour includes the Terracotta Warriors Museum, the grand Terracotta Warriors display and the regimental army layout with horses and chariots. Learn about the historic discovery, the excavation and preservation methods, Qin dynasty culture and background of the different warriors.

Visit the Huaqing Hot Springs, the holiday residence frequented by Emperor Qin and the Royal family. The baths have been in use for 3,000 years. History has it that behind the springs where Li Shan or Black Horse Mountain stands, revolutionary leader Chiang Kai Shek was chased from his headquarters barefoot by his own men at the height of civil unrest in China in 1936. He was captured and released upon orders by Stalin. Take a stroll along the path to a temple dedicated to Nu Wa, whom Taoists believe created the human race.

For lunch, taste the multi-cultural specialties from Muslim-inspired dishes to spicy, cold Sichuan style dishes.

Visit The Ban Po Village, regarded as one of the best examples of a Neolithic settlement and matriarchal village in China. Over 6,000 years old excavations have unearthed 40 or more houses, kilns, cellars and over 250 graves that are all on display.

For dinner, feast on a sumptuous Dumpling Banquet offering 30 different varieties of jiaozi.

Day 2
Wild Goose Pagoda, Bell and Drum Towers and Xian City Walls
Visit the Wild Goose Pagoda built in 652 A.D. The big and small pagodas are both linked to modern Buddhism. The Big Goose Pagoda was originally a temple built by Emperor Li Zhi in memory of his mother whilst Small Goose Pagoda's construction paid homage to Emperor Gao Zong. Following many wars and degradation, both were rebuilt by monks and eventually became places for housing the Buddhist scriptures brought from India that were translated into Chinese.

In the early days, Xian’s Bell and Drum Towers were originally used as timekeepers for the residents at dawn and dusk. Later they were used to warning of impending wars or invaders.

Lunch is provided offering a taste of the local Muslim specialty of mutton and beef eaten with delicious buns and rice.

The Great Mosque was originally built for Muslim traders traveling on the famed Silk Route to Xian. Regarded as one of China’s largest Islamic buildings it is still a place of worship today. Discover the other pagodas and rooms within the mosque with centuries old carvings and furniture. Take a stroll along the Muslim quarters lined with antique and curio shops.

Head back to the hotel to prepare for the journey back to Beijing.

Travel Fee include - Round trip train tickets (hard sleeper) - Accommodation at 4 star hotel (double share - Meals (2 breakfasts, 2 Chinese lunches, Dumpling Banquet dinner) - Entrance tickets to attractions - Bilingual CITS guide - WLE Travel Director - Air-conditioned bus

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