Terracotta Warriors Essential Full Day Tour from Xi'an

Xi'an is the home to the world-famous Terracotta Warrior Army and Horses, one of the most significant archeological excavations of the 20th century. This tour provides an opportunity to explore the site where 7,000 of these life sized figures were constructed to guard Emperor Qin Shihuang's tomb as well as take to the Banpo site, a typical Neolithic matriarchal community and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda.

Xi'an is the capital of Shaanxi Province and was the fabled starting point for the famous Silk Road. It served as the provincial capital for 13 dynasties, spanning a period of 1,100 years. Xi'an is unlike any major city in China, with an intact city wall, quaint local customs and a long history, even by Chinese standards.The Terracotta Army was created to guard Emperor Qin Shihuang's tomb and to protect him in the afterlife. It is estimated that there are over 7,000 life-size terracotta figures and horses buried here. The museum complex, which you will visit on this tour, features extensive exhibits, artifacts and a movie of the rich history of the site, plus breathtaking examples of the countless treasures unearthed here.

After your museum visit, you'll also see the Banpo Site. Dating back about 6,000 years, it was a typical Neolithic matriarchal community. At that time, the Banpo people used tools made primarily of wood and stone. Women, the crucial labor force, were responsible for making pottery, spinning, and raising the family, while men fished. This excavated site of a village was discovered in 1953, 45 houses, 6 pottery kilns, 200 storage pits, 250 adult's tombs and children's burial jars, 10,000 tools and utensils were unearthed.

After lunch, you will travel to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a symbol of the city. Step on the Xi'an's city wall. It is the most complete and best preserved city wall in all of China, dating back some 600 years.