Day Trip to Terracotta Army, Great Mosque & Muslim Quarter

Hotel Pick-up & Transfer to Terracotta Warriors
Your private guide will be holding ICT pick-up sign and waiting for you in your hotel lobby (or other appointed meeting place) at the appointed time. You will be transferred to Terracotta Warriors in a comfortable air-conditioned private vehicle (approximately 1 hour).

Explore Terracotta Warriors
Also named Terracotta Army, the Terracotta Warriors and Horses are a collection of terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shihuang, the first Emperor of China. They were buried to protect the emperor in his afterlife. The Terracotta Army were discovered in 1974 by local farmers drilling wells for irrigation. The figures vary in height according to their roles, with the tallest being the generals. The figures include warriors, chariots and horses. There are an estimated of 8000 soldiers, 130 chariots with 520 horses and 150 cavalry horses buried in three pits. Other terracotta non-military figures were found in other pits, including officials, acrobats, strongmen and musicians. The Terracotta Army is one of the most significant archaeological excavations of the 20th century in the world. It was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.

Lunch at a halal restaurant

Visit The Great Mosque & Muslim Quarter
Built in 1384, the Great Mosque of Xi’an is a serene historical landmark that has served the city’s Muslim community for over six centuries. As the largest and best-preserved ancient mosque in China, its architecture is a captivating blend of Chinese and Arabian styles. The mosque’s layout mirrors a traditional Chinese temple, with multiple courtyards featuring pavilions and pagodas. However, upon closer inspection, Islamic elements become evident, such as Arabic and Chinese calligraphy replacing typical figurative decorations. Aligned towards Mecca, the mosque’s five courtyards culminate in a prayer hall at its western end.

Xi’an boasts China’s oldest Muslim community, tracing its roots back to 651 AD when Emperor Gaozong sanctioned Islam. Today, the city’s vibrant Muslim Quarter is home to an estimated 60,000 Hui Muslims. Seven mosques serve the community, with the renowned Great Mosque as its centerpiece. The quarter is a bustling hub of activity, filled with a labyrinth of stalls offering diverse street food and local delicacies. Narrow, winding streets lined with shops provide a glimpse into daily Muslim life, where locals in white hats leisurely converse. Beyond the culinary and cultural experiences, the area also features attractions like the Gao Grand Courtyard and shadow puppet shows.

Return to Your Hotel
After visiting the Muslim Quarter, your guide and driver will transfer you back to your hotel.