Icy Embrace Meets Fiery Passion
This winter, Xi'an offers a captivating contrast of icy wonders and warm comforts. Witness the frozen beauty of the Mt. Yun Ice Cave and the thundering Hukou Waterfall, where the Yellow River's power is amplified by the winter chill. Explore the ancient mystery of the Terracotta Warriors, and ascend the snow-kissed peaks of Mount Hua. Encounter the rare brown Giant Panda, 'Qi Zai,' in the Qinling Mountains, and then soothe your senses in Xi'an's rejuvenating hot springs. Finally, indulge in the region's distinctive cuisine, immersing yourself in its rich cultural traditions.
This itinerary is fully customizable to your specific needs and interests. Our team is available to provide you with personalized assistance.
Suggested Xi'an Ice Cave & Hot Springs Tour
| Day | Highlights |
|---|---|
| 1-2 Xi’an |
Brown Giant Panda, Ancient City Wall, Muslim Quarter |
| 3 Huayin |
Mt. Huashan |
| 4 Linfen |
Mount Yun Ice Cave |
| 5 Yichuan |
Hukou Waterfall |
| 6-7 Xi’an |
Terracotta Warriors, Qin Relics Handling, Hands-on Warrior Restoration, Huaqing Palace, Hot Spring |
Xi'an, Ice Cave & Hot Springs Tour Map
Tour 'Wow' Points
Step Into A Frozen Fantasy
Experience the year-round frozen realm of Mt. Yun's Ice Cave, with stunning ice formations and a chilling atmosphere.
Witness the World's Only Brown Panda
Encounter 'Qi Zai', the world's only captive brown Giant Panda, alongside 11 other black and white pandas (adults & cubs).
Admire Huashan with Ease
Glide up and down Mt. Huashan with ease, enjoying spectacular views of towering cliffs, verdant forests, and ancient temples.
Marvel at Hukou Waterfall
Witness the Hukou Waterfall, where the Yellow River showcases its power as it rushes through a narrow passage, creating a booming sound and a misty spectacle.
Calming Hot Spring Escapes
Find relaxation and rejuvenation in a peaceful hot spring resort, where the warm waters provide a calming retreat after a day's adventures.
Deepen Your Connection with Qin Dynasty Relics
View the first restored Terracotta Warriors and their restoration, then handle authentic Qin Dynasty relics in the Conservation Laboratory.
Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family's best-rated service across trusted platforms.
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Outstanding Tour of Xi’an with Crystal, The Best Guide!
We loved our tour of Xi’an with Crystal. She is a top-notch guide and we are so happy and grateful she was our guide. She speaks excellent English and she taught us to say phrases in Mandarin. She is so knowledgeable about the city of Xi’an and all its historic and cultural places. Crystal taught us all about the city of Xi’an, its history, and the important dynasties here. We loved seeing the Terracotta Army, it was incredible. We will always remember riding bikes on the city walls. Crystal brought us to the most delicious restaurants and we ate very delicious food! We are vegetarians and Crystal ordered for us and made sure all the dishes aligned with our dietary needs. The Dumpling Banquet was so tasty! She also bought us local fruit to taste as well as sweets and treats wherever we went. Crystal took great care of us and really taught us a lot about China. We loved our time with her. Crystal is a remarkable guide because she is friendly, warm, flexible and helpful. The best thing about her is she has a sense of humor and loves to make sure her guests are having fun. Thank you, Crystal! more
Mar 2025, TeamDufortio Connecticut
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2 great days in Xi’an
We spent two days in Xi’an with China Highlights. Our guide Lin was wonderful. She was extremely knowledgeable about her city and its history and very helpful and kind. Her dining suggestions were excellent and enabled us to try many delicious foods. We also enjoyed her company! more
Mar 2025, Sara M
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Xi’an with Jennie
Jennie was a terrific guide. Her knowledge of China is extensive and delivered with excellent English. We really liked how friendly she was and how she took such good care of us. We enjoyed the restaurants and especially liked the evening performance she recommended. We’ve traveled to 45 different countries and she is definitely one of the best guides we’ve experienced more
Mar 2025, susangendron60
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Suggested Itinerary
Here is a suggested itinerary. We are happy to customize a tour according to your interests and schedule.
Xi'an welcomes you! Your tour guide, full of local knowledge, will be there to greet you at the airport or train station, ready to begin your tour.
Enjoy a seamless transfer to your hotel in a private car. During the ride, your guide will offer an insightful overview of Xi'an's fascinating past and present.
Enjoy a comfortable one-hour private transfer with your guide to the Qinling Four Treasures Science Park.
Encounter 'Qi Zai,' the world's only captive brown Giant Panda, a truly exceptional and treasured sight, along with 11 other black and white pandas of various ages, from adults to cubs.
Discover the endangered Crested Ibises, the captivating Golden Snub-nosed Monkeys, the majestic Takins, and other rare species such as Red Pandas and Asian Black Bears, all thriving against the breathtaking backdrop of the Qinling Mountains.
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Xi'an from the Ancient City Wall. This impressive defensive structure, boasting towering walls, ramparts, gates, and watchtowers, is a testament to China's well-preserved ancient military engineering.
Wander through the vibrant Muslim Quarter, where the tantalizing aromas of street food mingle with the bustling sounds of local markets. Leisurely explore, savor delectable local snacks, and immerse yourself in the community's rich culture.
A comfortable 2-hour drive from your hotel to Mt. Hua awaits, during which you'll gain fascinating insights into the region from your guide.
A shuttle bus ride will bring you to the West Peak cable car, where you'll embark on a 20-minute scenic journey to the summit, with breathtaking vistas accompanying you.
Set out from the summit on a leisurely 30-minute hike, a scenic passage leading to the South Peak and the iconic Plank Walk, where a continuous spectacle of breathtaking vistas will accompany your every move.
For a more comprehensive adventure, consider traversing the network of scenic trails that meander through the East and Middle Peaks, where you'll discover hidden gems and panoramic landscapes, culminating in your return to the West Peak.
The downward trip from the mountain echoes your ascent, resulting in a smooth arrival at your comfortable Huayin hotel.
Relax and enjoy a private transfer to the magnificent Mount Yun in Linfen City.
Discover Tacipo Village for a cultural journey through China's history, architecture, and traditional crafts like Shadow Puppetry and Flower Steamed Bun Crafting.
Discover the year-round wonder of the Ice Cave, where unique geological features preserve icy temperatures even in summer. Inside, you are enchanted by stunning ice formations and the cool, revitalizing air, all set against the backdrop of beautiful Mount Yun.
After the tour, stay overnight at a hotel located at the mountain's base.
Relax and enjoy a private transfer to the magnificent Hukou Waterfall.
Reach the majestic Hukou Waterfall on the Yellow River via a shuttle bus. This natural wonder features the river's powerful flow constricted through a narrow gorge, creating a thunderous cascade and far-reaching mist.
Don the unique garments of Shaanxi farmers and document your experience with a memorable photograph at Hukou Waterfall.
After the tour, a comfortable private transfer will be provided to your Xi’an hotel.
Enjoy a private ride with your guide to the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum.
Enter the Terracotta Warriors Museum via tram, and witness three captivating pits that display the concealed power of Emperor Qin Shi Huang's extensive military force. Your guide will provide insights into their fabrication and safeguarding, emphasizing the precise workmanship, lasting strength, and the former colorful brilliance of these historical sentinels.
Get an up-close view of the first restored Terracotta Warriors, learn their restoration story, handle authentic Qin Dynasty relics, and participate in a hands-on restoration experience in the Conservation Laboratory.
Explore the Huaqing Palace, a Tang Dynasty retreat famous for its hot springs and the love story of Emperor Xuanzong and Yang Guifei, and optionally, enjoy the popular 'Everlasting Regret' show.
Make the most of your remaining free time to enjoy a final exploration, prior to your guide's arrival for your airport or train station transfer.
Hotel Selection
—the Icing on the Cake
We recommend internationally recognized hotels for your seamless travel experience.
Tour Price
Price includes:
- Private air-conditioned car with big windows and ample space
- English-speaking local guides
- Activities, hotels, and meals listed in the itinerary
- A 24/7 helpline is available throughout your trip
Tour Code: xa-8