Xi'an Private Day Tour: Famen Temple&Qianling Mausoleum Adventure
Active
7h - 8h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Join this exclusive private day tour to explore two top Xi'an attractions in one convenient trip, with full comfort and personalized service.
Included: Professional English-speaking guide, private chauffeured car, and all entrance tickets (no hidden costs).
Your day includes: Visiting Famen Temple – a sacred Buddhist site where you’ll see the iconic 148-meter Namaste Dagoba and the revered finger bone relic of Sakyamuni Buddha.
Then, head to Qianling Mausoleum – the only joint mausoleum of two emperors (Emperor Gaozong and China’s sole female ruler, Empress Wu Zetian). Here, you’ll view stone statues, the Blank Tablet, and well-preserved Tang Dynasty court murals.
Your guide will share key insights as you go, and the private service lets you enjoy a seamless, crowd-free experience from hotel pickup to drop-off.
Available options
Private Tour
Pickup included
What's included
English speaking guide
Entrance fee
Transport by private vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
Your exclusive private day tour begins with a convenient pickup: your professional English-speaking guide will meet you at your downtown Xi'an hotel at the scheduled time. You’ll then board your private car and head to your first stop, Famen Temple. The drive takes approximately 1.5-2 hours, during which your guide will share interesting historical context about the sites you’ll visit, and you’re welcome to ask any questions anytime for further clarification.
2
Upon arriving at Famen Temple, you’ll explore this sacred ancient Buddhist sanctuary alongside your guide. Famen Temple is one of China’s most revered Buddhist sites, with a history spanning over 1,700 years—it was once an imperial temple in the Tang Dynasty and is famous worldwide for housing sacred Buddhist relics. Your guide will lead you through the temple grounds, starting with the iconic 148-meter (160-yard) Namaste Dagoba — a striking architectural landmark that symbolizes Buddhist devotion. You’ll also have the chance to pay respects to the revered finger bone relic of Sakyamuni Buddha, one of the temple’s most sacred treasures. As you walk through the complex, your guide will point out key halls and structures, sharing brief insights into their significance in Buddhist culture.
Lunch is not included in the tour. However, your guide will be happy to recommend authentic local restaurants nearby that suit your tastes, and you can pay for your meal on your own at your convenience.
3
Qianling Mausoleum is a unique imperial tomb in Chinese history—it is the only joint mausoleum of two emperors: Emperor Gaozong of Tang and his wife, Empress Wu Zetian, the sole female ruler to ever govern China. This majestic site reflects the grandeur and prosperity of the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD).
You’ll stop to view three iconic landmarks: the famous Blank Tablet (a stele with no inscriptions, leaving Empress Wu Zetian’s legacy for history to judge), the Qijie Bei (Tablet of Seven Elements, inscribed with Emperor Gaozong’s achievements), and the 61 stone statues of foreign diplomats. Additionally, you’ll visit the Tomb of Princess Yong Tai, where you’ll admire well-preserved, colorful Tang Dynasty murals depicting court ladies, nobles, and daily life in the imperial court — your guide will explain the stories behind these exquisite artworks.
At the end of the tour, your guide and driver will take you back to your downtown Xi'an hotel.
What's not included
Gratuities
Accommodation
Meals
Available languages
Guide guide
CMN
EN
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Xian
Xian is one of the oldest cities in China, serving as the capital for 13 dynasties, including the famous Tang Dynasty. It is renowned for its rich history, ancient architecture, and as the starting point of the Silk Road. The city offers a unique blend of ancient and modern attractions, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers.
Top Attractions
Terracotta Army
Discovered in 1974, the Terracotta Army is a collection of terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China. It is one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century.
Historical
2-3 hours
150 RMB (including museum)
Ancient City Wall
The Ancient City Wall is one of the oldest and best-preserved city walls in China. It encircles the old city and offers a unique perspective of Xian's history and urban landscape.
Historical
1-2 hours
54 RMB (including bike rental)
Muslim Quarter
The Muslim Quarter is a bustling area known for its vibrant street food scene, historic mosques, and unique Islamic architecture. It offers a glimpse into the multicultural history of Xian.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free (food and shopping costs extra)
Big Wild Goose Pagoda
The Big Wild Goose Pagoda is a famous Buddhist pagoda and a symbol of Xian. It was built in the Tang Dynasty and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The surrounding area is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Historical
1-2 hours
50 RMB (including museum)
Shaanxi History Museum
The Shaanxi History Museum is one of the most important museums in China, showcasing the rich history and culture of the Shaanxi region. It houses a vast collection of artifacts spanning thousands of years.
Museum
1-2 hours
Free (but requires a reservation)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Roujiamo
Also known as the Chinese burger, it consists of braised pork belly stuffed in a crispy flatbread.
Snack
Contains pork
Liangpi
Cold noodles made from wheat or rice flour, served with a spicy sauce and various toppings.
Dish
Vegetarian options available
Yangrou Paomo
Lamb soup with bread pieces, a staple dish in Xian.
Dish
Contains lamb
Biangbiang Noodles
Wide, hand-pulled noodles with a thick, chewy texture, often served with a spicy sauce.
Dish
Vegetarian options available
Popular Activities
Hiking in Lishan Mountain
Biking along the Ancient City Wall
Visiting Huaqing Palace hot springs
Tea tasting in local teahouses
Exploring the Terracotta Army
Visiting the Shaanxi History Museum
Walking the Ancient City Wall at sunset
Trying local street food in the Muslim Quarter
Best Time to Visit
April to October
This is the best time to visit Xian as the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. The city hosts various festivals and events during this period.
15°C to 35°C
59°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Chinese (Mandarin)
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY)
Time Zone
GMT+8
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Xian is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps like Didi Chuxing.
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or tours.
- • Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.
Getting there
By air
- Xian Xianyang International Airport • 40 km from city center
By train
Xian Railway Station, Xian North Railway Station
By bus
Xian Long-distance Bus Station, Xian North Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The Xian Metro is efficient and covers most major attractions. It's the fastest way to get around the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Didi Chuxing
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Yanta District
Beilin District
Muslim Quarter
Qujiang New District
Day trips
Huaqing Palace
15 km from city center • Half day
Huaqing Palace is a complex of hot springs and palaces known for its historical significance and beautiful gardens. It was a favorite retreat for emperors and is associated with the Tang Dynasty.
Lishan Mountain
20 km from city center • Full day
Lishan Mountain is a scenic area known for its natural beauty, hiking trails, and historical sites. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular spot for outdoor activities.
Famen Temple
120 km from city center • Full day
Famen Temple is one of the most important Buddhist temples in China, known for housing the relics of the Buddha. It is a significant pilgrimage site and offers a peaceful retreat from the city.
Festivals
Chinese New Year • January or February (varies)
Lantern Festival • 15th day of the first lunar month
Qinling Mountain Marathon • October
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Chinese phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals.
- Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.
- Try local street food, but choose busy stalls with high turnover to ensure freshness and food safety.
- Use the metro or bike-sharing services to get around the city efficiently and affordably.
- Book tickets for popular attractions like the Terracotta Army in advance to avoid long queues.
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
