Discover 10 authentic calligraphy & painting, traditional handicrafts and festival experience experiences in Xi'an, China. From hands-on workshops with local masters to immersive cultural tours, find and book the best activities for your trip.
Xi'an was China's capital for over 3,000 years, serving as the eastern terminus of the Silk Road and the seat of power for 13 dynasties. Walking its ancient city walls, you can feel the weight of history under your feet.
The Terracotta Army alone makes Xi'an worth the trip — 8,000 life-sized warriors guarding Emperor Qin Shi Huang's tomb. But the city offers far more: vibrant Muslim Quarter street food, Tang Dynasty music and dance shows, and some of China's best-preserved ancient architecture.
Xi'an is China's greatest open-air history museum. No other city offers such a direct connection to ancient Chinese civilization.
March-May and September-November. Spring brings plum blossoms, while autumn offers clear skies for photography.
8,000 unique terracotta soldiers guarding China's first emperor's tomb.
One of the oldest and best-preserved city walls in China, 14 km in circumference.
A labyrinth of streets with Hui Muslim culture and some of Xi'an's best street food.
A 64-meter Buddhist pagoda built in 652 AD during the Tang Dynasty.
One of China's best museums, showcasing artifacts from every dynasty.
Experience Chinese calligraphy and tea ceremony in an authentic studio. Begin with jasmine tea ritual and incense ceremony, learn brush painting fundamentals and create your own artworks.
Make mini terracotta warriors by hand, learning ancient pottery techniques. Discover the history of Emperor Qin's Terracotta Army and experience 2000-year-old craftsmanship.
Immersive Tang Dynasty culture experience. Wear traditional Tang costumes, learn Tang etiquette and dance. Taste imperial cuisine and enjoy Tang music performances.
Travel back to the golden age of the Tang Dynasty with an immersive evening of imperial court cuisine, traditional music, dance, and dumpling making. Watch elegant court dancers in flowing silk robes while learning to fold dumplings like a Tang Dynasty chef, then savor a feast of 20+ dumpling varieties shaped like butterflies, flowers, and animals.
Transform into ancient Chinese royalty with a full Hanfu costume experience. Choose from hundreds of authentic Tang Dynasty outfits, get traditional hair and makeup styling, and explore Xi'an's ancient city wall and Big Wild Goose Pagoda in full imperial regalia.
Go beyond viewing the Terracotta Army and step into an archaeologist's shoes. Learn ancient clay molding techniques, create your own miniature warrior with traditional tools, and understand the 2,200-year-old craftsmanship that built one of the world's greatest archaeological wonders.
Explore Xi'an's legendary Muslim Quarter after dark when the food stalls are at their most vibrant. Sample 10+ signature dishes from roujiamo (Chinese hamburger) to yangrou paomo (lamb soup with bread) while learning about the 1,300-year history of Hui Muslim culture in China.
Witness a spectacular recreation of Tang Dynasty court entertainment featuring ornate costumes, traditional instruments, and graceful choreography. This award-winning show brings the glory of China's golden age to life with stunning visual effects.
Stand face-to-face with 8,000 life-sized clay soldiers at one of the world's greatest archaeological wonders. This ticket includes access to all 3 pits, the Bronze Chariots exhibition, and an optional English audio guide or live guide.
Challenge yourself on one of China's Five Great Mountains. Hike the thrilling Plank Walk in the Sky, stand on the East Peak for sunrise views, and experience the adrenaline of the world's most dangerous hiking trail. Includes cable car and round-trip transport from Xi'an.
Xi'an offers 10 curated cultural experiences ranging from festival experience to traditional handicrafts. Each experience is verified for authenticity and foreigner-friendliness.
Most cultural experiences in Xi'an require advance booking, especially those with master artisans or small-group workshops. We recommend booking at least 2-3 days ahead.
Yes, all experiences in Xi'an are selected with international travelers in mind. Many include English-speaking guides and are designed to be accessible regardless of your prior knowledge of Chinese culture.
Cultural experiences in Xi'an range from affordable workshops to premium master-led sessions. Prices typically start from around ¥100 per person, with most falling between ¥200-500.