Silk Road Cultural Tour - 8-Day Exploration of Ancient Silk Road Civilization
Silk Road scenery along the journey
Trip Overview
The Silk Road was an important trade route connecting ancient China to the Western world and a bridge for cultural exchange between East and West. This ancient commercial route started in Chang'an (now Xi'an), passed through Gansu and Xinjiang, and reached Central Asia, West Asia, and Europe. This journey will take you along the footsteps of the ancient Silk Road, exploring the magnificent scenery and rich historical and cultural heritage of western China.
During this 8-day journey, you will visit the Terracotta Army World Cultural Heritage, experience the artistic charm of the Mogao Caves in Dunhuang, tour the Jiayuguan Great Wall, feel the unique charm of desert oases, taste authentic Northwest cuisine, and learn about the profoundness of Silk Road culture.
Cultural Heritage
World-class cultural heritage sites including the Terracotta Army, Mogao Caves, and Jiayuguan Great Wall
Natural Landscapes
Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring, Danxia landforms, Gobi desert scenery
Culinary Experience
Shaanxi Liangpi, Roujiamo, Lanzhou Lamian, Dunhuang Donkey Meat Noodles
Art Experience
Mogao Caves murals, Silk Road cultural performances, handicraft making
Trip Highlights
This Silk Road tour has carefully selected the most representative attractions and experiences to take you deep into the essence of Silk Road culture.
Qin Shi Huang's Terracotta Army
One of the Eight Wonders of the World, visit the stunning terracotta army formations and learn about the military system and artistic achievements of the Qin Dynasty.
Dunhuang Mogao Caves
World Cultural Heritage, admire the well-preserved murals and colored sculptures, and experience the charm of Buddhist art and the integration of Silk Road cultures.
Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring
A wonder in the desert, experience the natural miracle of "sand and spring coexisting", and enjoy desert camel riding.
Jiayuguan Great Wall
"The First Strategic Pass Under Heaven", the western starting point of the Ming Dynasty Great Wall, climb the city tower to overlook the Gobi scenery and learn about ancient military defense systems.
Detailed Itinerary
Below is the detailed itinerary for this Silk Road cultural tour. We will follow this schedule to take you exploring the charm of the ancient Silk Road.
Day 1: Arrival in Xi'an
Welcome to Ancient Xi'an
Arrive at Xi'an Xianyang International Airport, our guide will be waiting for you at the airport. A private car will take you to your city hotel. After check-in, you are free to explore and adjust to the time difference.
In the evening, you can visit Muslim Quarter on your own to taste Xi'an specialties such as Roujiamo (Chinese hamburger), Liangpi (cold noodles), and Yangrou Paomo (lamb soup with bread) etc. Muslim Quarter is a famous food district in Xi'an, gathering various local specialties.
Day 2: Xi'an City
Qin Shi Huang's Terracotta Army - Huaqing Palace
After breakfast, head to visit the Qin Shi Huang's Terracotta Army Museum, a World Cultural Heritage site and one of the Eight Wonders of the World, known as the "Underground Army." You will visit Pits 1, 2, and 3, as well as the Bronze Chariot Exhibition Hall, learning about the military system and artistic achievements of the Qin Dynasty.
After lunch, visit Huaqing Palace, a royal garden of the Tang Dynasty famous for its hot springs and historical stories. Tour the Huaqing Pool and the Xi'an Incident Site to understand the historical background.
In the evening, you can opt to watch the "Everlasting Regret" live performance to experience the grandeur of the Tang Dynasty.
Day 3: Xi'an - Lanzhou
Xi'an City Wall - Lanzhou
After breakfast, visit the Xi'an City Wall, one of the best-preserved ancient city walls in China. You can choose to cycle or walk along the wall to enjoy the scenery of Xi'an city.
After lunch, head to Xi'an North Railway Station and take a high-speed train to Lanzhou (about 3 hours). Upon arrival in Lanzhou, a private car will take you to your hotel for check-in.
In the evening, you can visit the Yellow River Scenic Belt on your own, enjoy the night view of Lanzhou, and taste authentic Lanzhou beef noodles.
Upcoming Itinerary Highlights
- Day 4: Lanzhou - Dunhuang - Visit Mother River Statue, Waterwheel Expo Park, take night train to Dunhuang
- Day 5: Dunhuang - Visit Mogao Caves, Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring, experience desert sunset
- Day 6: Dunhuang - Jiayuguan - Tour Dunhuang Ancient City, travel to Jiayuguan
- Day 7: Jiayuguan - Visit Jiayuguan Great Wall, Suspended Great Wall, enjoy Gobi scenery
- Day 8: Jiayuguan - Departure - Airport transfer according to flight schedule, end of wonderful Silk Road journey
Cost Description
Included
- 7 nights accommodation (local 4-star hotels)
- Daily breakfast, some lunches and dinners
- High-speed train second class from Xi'an to Lanzhou, train ticket from Lanzhou to Dunhuang
- Entrance tickets to all listed attractions
- Local air-conditioned tour bus
- Professional guide service
- Travel agency liability insurance
Not Included
- Round-trip flight tickets to Xi'an
- Personal expenses and tips
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
- Optional activities within attractions
- Travel accident insurance (recommended)
- Additional expenses due to force majeure