Day 1 – Arrival in Xi’an

Arrive in Xi’an and transfer to your hotel. Enjoy the evening at leisure in one of China’s most historic cities.

Accommodation: Xi’an

Day 2 – Terracotta Warriors & Huaqing Palace

Morning:

After enjoying a delicious and hearty buffet breakfast, depart for your first destination:

Drive for about 1 hour to Lintong and visit the world‑famous Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum (approx. 2.5 hours). (Optional: electric cart 5 RMB/person)
Known as the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” it is the largest underground military museum on earth. Inside the pits, you will see thousands of life‑sized painted terracotta soldiers, horses, and real weapons used in battle during the Qin Dynasty. Each warrior has a unique expression, allowing you to experience the grandeur and power of the Qin Empire’s mighty army.

Lunch: Enjoy a local specialty lunch — “The Qin Banquet”.

Afternoon:

Visit the ancient imperial garden complex — Huaqing Palace of the Tang Dynasty (approx. 1.5 hours). (Optional: Huaqing Palace electric cart round‑trip 20 RMB/person, or Lishan cable car round‑trip 60 RMB/person)
Entering the palace, follow the shimmering waters of Furong Lake to the Imperial Hot Spring Museum, where the stone foundations of the Lotus Pool and Haitang Pool reflect red walls and green tiles. Imagine the luxurious scene of Yang Guifei bathing here during the Tang Dynasty. Continue through the garden to the well‑preserved Five‑Room Hall, where bullet marks remain on the walls — a vivid reminder of the dramatic morning in 1936 that changed China’s destiny.

Dinner: Enjoy a specialty dinner:

“Imperial Banquet” — followed by the performance “The Empress of the Great Tang”.

Accommodation: Xi’an

Day 3 – High‑Speed Train to Lanzhou & Gansu Provincial Museum

Morning:

After enjoying a delicious and hearty buffet breakfast, gather in the hotel lobby. Then take the high‑speed train to Lanzhou.
Reference Train: G2021 (11:01–14:07)
Lunch: A simple meal will be provided on the train.

Afternoon:

Visit the Gansu Provincial Museum (closed on Mondays) — the best place to explore the rich culture of the ancient Silk Road.
This museum houses some of Gansu’s most precious historical artifacts, including the iconic “Galloping Bronze Horse” featured on Chinese postage stamps.
Exhibitions include the Silk Road Culture Gallery, Yellow River Culture Gallery, and Buddhist Art Gallery, guiding you through thousands of years of history.
Highlights: the Galloping Horse Treading on a Flying Swallow, Wei‑Jin mural tombs, and the statue of Kumarajiva — all national treasures.

Dinner: Enjoy local Lanzhou specialties at Zhengning Road Night Market, where you can taste authentic regional dishes.

Accommodation: Lanzhou

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 4 – Zhangye Danxia Landform & Journey to Jiayuguan

Morning:

After enjoying a delicious and hearty buffet breakfast, gather in the hotel lobby and depart for your next destination.
Travel to the city of Zhangye, known as the “Jiangnan Beyond the Great Wall.”
The drive takes approximately 5 hours.

Lunch: Enjoy a local lunch.

Afternoon:

After lunch, take a tourist coach to the Zhangye Rainbow Mountains Scenic Area (National 5A Scenic Spot, includes entrance ticket + shuttle bus).
Distance: 40 km, approx. 1 hour drive.
Recommended sightseeing time: 2 hours.

The Zhangye Danxia Landform is located in Linze County and Sunan Yugur Autonomous County. Formed between the Jurassic and Tertiary periods over 200 million years ago, the area covers about 510 square kilometers.
It is famous for its vast distribution, spectacular formations, and vibrant colors, offering exceptional scientific and tourism value.

This is the only region in China where Danxia landforms and colorful hills coexist. It is also one of the best‑developed and most visually stunning Danxia regions in the country. The site has been featured in major films such as A Simple Noodle Story and The Great Wall.
It has been recognized by China National Geography as one of:

• China’s Seven Most Beautiful Danxia Landforms
• China’s Six Most Unique Geological Landscapes
• World’s Top Ten Geographical Wonders (2011)

Afterwards, visit the Danxiakou Cultural Tourism Town (approx. 30 minutes). This is the largest themed cultural town in Northwest China. Here you may try local handmade snacks such as oil‑puffed pastries, hand‑rolled noodles, fish‑shaped rice noodles, and stir‑fried “bōlā.”
If you're lucky, you may also encounter live Silk Road‑themed performances such as City Gate Welcome Ceremony, Silk Road Caravan, and Colorful Bridal Parade.

After the visit, drive to Jiayuguan City (230 km, approx. 3.5 hours). Stay overnight in Jiayuguan — the “Steel City of the Northwest.” You may freely explore the night scenery and experience the cultural blend of the Great Wall and the Silk Road.

Dinner: Enjoy local specialty dishes.

Warm Tips:

• 1. Enter and exit the Rainbow Mountains Scenic Area through the North Gate. Pay attention to shuttle bus signs.
• 2. The climate in the northwest is dry with strong UV radiation. There is little shade in the scenic area — please protect yourself from the sun.
• 3. The ecological environment of the Rainbow Mountains is fragile. Follow safety instructions, stay on designated paths, and do not climb or cross barriers.
• 4. If Danxiakou Tourism Town is closed due to weather or other reasons, the visit will be cancelled with no refund.

Food Highlights in Jiayuguan:

• Datang Food Street: Barbecue and local specialties
• Jingtielu Market: Chicken roll stew, steamed chicken pot, wild mushroom noodles, Wuwei liangpi
• Fuqiang Market: A famous local snack street

Accommodation: Jiayuguan

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 5 – Jiayuguan Fortress, First Beacon Tower & Journey to Dunhuang

Morning:

After enjoying a delicious and hearty buffet breakfast, gather in the hotel lobby.
After breakfast, drive to the UNESCO World Heritage Site and National 5A Scenic Area — Jiayuguan Fortress (entrance ticket included).
Driving time: approx. 15 minutes; sightseeing: approx. 2 hours.

Jiayuguan Fortress sits at the southwestern edge of Jiayuguan City and marks the western starting point of the Ming Great Wall. It has long been known as the “First and Greatest Pass Under Heaven” and served as a crucial military stronghold on the frontier. Built in 1372 during the Ming Hongwu period, its strategic terrain and imposing architecture earned it the titles “The Mighty Pass of the World” and “The Frontier Lock of the Desert.”

Continue to visit the First Beacon Tower of the Great Wall (entrance ticket included).
Distance: 7.5 km from Jiayuguan Fortress; driving time: approx. 15 minutes; visit: approx. 40 minutes.

Also known as the Taolai River Beacon, this is the southernmost beacon tower of the western Great Wall in Jiayuguan — and the westernmost beacon tower of the entire Ming Great Wall. Built in 1539 during the Ming Jiajing period, it stands atop a 56‑meter cliff overlooking the Taolai River.

Lunch: Enjoy a local lunch.

Afternoon:

After lunch, travel to Dunhuang. Along the way, pass through Yumen City — birthplace of China’s petroleum industry and hometown of the “Iron Man” Wang Jinxi — and Guazhou, known as the “Hometown of Honey Melons.” Enjoy the vast Gobi scenery and distant views of the Burong Jiyadan landform.

Special visit to the new Silk Road landmark — “Child of the Earth” (approx. 30 minutes; located 30 km from Guazhou). Created by Professor Dong Shubing of Tsinghua University, this sculpture symbolizes that humanity, like the sculpture itself, is a child of Mother Earth. It expresses a call for environmental awareness and harmony between humans and nature.

View the distant “Mirage Palace” — a striking architectural installation consisting of one main hall and four towers, collectively named “Boundless”. Its presence in the vast desert creates a surreal and unforgettable scene.

Continue driving toward Dunhuang. Along the way, enjoy views of the “Mighty Han Emperor” sculpture, depicting Emperor Wu of Han in a heroic posture. The artistic style echoes the grandeur of the Han and Tang dynasties, blending seamlessly with the vast Gobi landscape.

Arrive in Dunhuang — the legendary “City of Flying Apsaras.” In the evening, you may watch the immersive performance “Encore Dunhuang” (optional), or freely explore the lively Shazhou Night Market and taste local ethnic snacks.

Dinner: Enjoy local specialty dishes - the famous Dunhuang Desert Banquet, featuring whole roasted lamb cooked over desert fruitwood.

Accommodation: Hotel in Dunhuang

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Warm Tips:

• 1. If “Child of the Earth” is closed due to weather, traffic, or natural conditions, the visit will be cancelled with no refund.
• 2. Dunhuang has a dry climate and large temperature differences between day and night. In July–August, temperatures are high — please adjust clothing accordingly, stay hydrated, and protect yourself from the sun.
• 3. On the way from Jiayuguan to Dunhuang, we will stop at the Guazhou rest area. Vendors may sell goods here — this is not an official shopping stop. Please purchase cautiously.
• 4. Today involves long driving distances. Please remain patient and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the route.

Day 6 – Crescent Lake & Mingsha Mountain · Mogao Caves · Overnight Train to Lanzhou

Morning:

After enjoying a delicious and hearty buffet breakfast, gather in the hotel lobby.
Depart for the National 5A Scenic Area and desert wonder — Mingsha Mountain & Crescent Lake (entrance ticket included).
Distance: 5 km from downtown; approx. 15 minutes by car; recommended visit: 2 hours.

Located 5 km south of Dunhuang, the scenic area consists of two main attractions: Crescent Lake, nestled in the embrace of the dunes and shaped like a new moon, and Mingsha Mountain, named for the sound produced when the sand moves. The dunes are formed from drifting sands in five colors — red, yellow, green, white, and black — giving them the poetic name “Five‑Colored Sand.” Known since ancient times for the harmony of “mountain and spring coexisting, sand and water living together,” it is celebrated as one of the most unique desert landscapes in China.

Lunch: Enjoy a local specialty lunch.

Afternoon:

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site — Mogao Caves (includes entrance ticket + shuttle bus + guided tour).
Distance: 12 km; approx. 20 minutes by car; sightseeing: approx. 2.5 hours.

Known as the “Oriental Art Treasure House,” the Mogao Caves — also called the Thousand Buddha Grottoes — are one of the most significant cultural discoveries of the 20th century. Famous for their exquisite murals and sculptures, the caves were first carved during the Former Qin period and expanded through the Northern Dynasties, Sui, Tang, Five Dynasties, Western Xia, and Yuan dynasties. Today, the site contains 735 caves, 45,000 m² of murals, and 2,415 painted clay statues, making it the largest and richest Buddhist art complex in the world.

After the visit, take an overnight hard‑sleeper train to Lanzhou.
Reference trains: Dunhuang → Lanzhou or Liuyuan → Lanzhou (exact train and berth subject to final arrangement).

Special Notes:

• 1. Since 2021, the Mogao Caves have fully implemented an online real-name reservation and real-name ticket verification system, strictly enforcing the daily visitor limit. The scenic area releases regular admission tickets 30 days in advance. The reservation channel for regular tickets opens 30 days before the visit date, with 6,000 regular tickets available per day. After regular tickets are sold out, the Dunhuang Academy may open emergency ticket sales depending on the situation, with 12,000 emergency tickets available per day. Once all tickets are sold, no additional visits can be arranged. All reserved tickets can only be refunded and cannot be rescheduled. If a visitor wishes to continue with their visit after a refund, a new reservation and purchase must be made.
• 2. Because regular Mogao Caves admission tickets must be reserved online with real-name registration more than 31 days in advance, it is not possible to determine in advance which type of ticket (regular or emergency) will be available on the actual travel date. If regular admission tickets are required, please inquire and register more than 31 days in advance and provide all guests’ real-name information. If real-name information is not provided in advance, our agency cannot guarantee the availability of regular Mogao Caves tickets. Thank you for your understanding.
• 3. If the required visitor list is not provided within the specified time, or if special circumstances arise at the Mogao Caves, such as natural disasters or the daily visitor limit being exceeded, and tickets cannot be reserved—resulting in the inability to visit the Mogao Caves—our agency will arrange a visit to the sister site, the Western Thousand Buddha Caves, along with Dunhuang Ancient City as a substitute. No price difference will be refunded to guests. For guests who do not wish to visit the substitute attractions, our agency will cancel the Mogao Caves visit and refund the ticket fee. Thank you for your understanding.
• 4. Normal ticket itinerary includes two films (“A Thousand Years of Mogao” and “Dreamlike Buddha Palace”) and guided visits to 8 caves. Emergency tickets include guided visits to 4 caves.

  A. Regular Admission Ticket (6,000 tickets/day)

  Visit details: After obtaining the “Ticket Information Slip,” visitors must present the slip along with a valid ID at the Mogao Caves Digital Exhibition Center for health code verification, temperature check, and ticket inspection. Visitors will then watch the digital feature film Millennium Mogao and the dome film Dreamlike Buddha Palace. After the screenings, visitors take a shuttle bus to the Mogao Caves area (approximately 13 km). Under staff guidance, groups of 25–30 people will be assigned a dedicated guide to visit 8 open caves. After the cave tour, visitors return to the Digital Exhibition Center by shuttle bus.

  B. Emergency Admission Ticket (12,000 tickets/day)

  Visit details: After obtaining the “Ticket Information Slip,” visitors must present the slip along with a valid ID at the Mogao Caves Digital Exhibition Center for health code verification, temperature check, and ticket inspection. Visitors then take a shuttle bus to the Mogao Caves area (approximately 3 km). A guide will accompany the group to visit 4 open caves. After the cave tour, visitors return to the Digital Exhibition Center by shuttle bus.

Warm Tips:

• 1. The order of visiting Mogao Caves and Mingsha Mountain may be adjusted based on weather and ticket availability.
• 2. Mogao Caves tickets are reserved in the order that each tour group’s confirmation documents are received by the local operator. As a result, members of the same tour group may receive different reservation times for their Mogao Caves visit. Some travelers may obtain regular tickets, others emergency tickets, and in rare cases, some may not receive tickets at all. The group’s actual visit time will strictly follow the reservation time assigned by the Mogao Caves booking system. Thank you for your understanding.
• 3. The Mogao Caves are a world cultural heritage site known for their precious and fragile nature, requiring careful protection. During the visit, if adverse weather conditions occur—such as snow, rain, or sandstorms—the Mogao Caves will temporarily close to protect the cultural relics. Please follow the arrangements made by the staff. If the visit cannot proceed, ticket fees will be refunded according to Mogao Caves regulations.
• 4. Dunhuang has a dry climate with large temperature differences between morning and evening. Temperatures are high in July and August. Please adjust your clothing according to the weather to avoid catching a cold, take proper sun protection measures, and drink plenty of water.
• 5. When visiting the Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake Scenic Area, please be aware that the sand dunes have strong winds and very fine, soft sand. Take good care of your personal belongings, and protect electronic devices such as mobile phones and cameras from sand. Guests are also advised to take proper sun protection measures.
• 6. The Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake Scenic Area offers many recreational activities. If you choose to ride camels, take desert off‑road vehicles, or participate in other activities, please make sure to understand the safety precautions in advance and decide according to your own physical condition.
• 7. Important Notes for Visiting the Mogao Caves:
  a. Photography is strictly prohibited inside the Mogao Caves. Please cooperate with the staff and keep your cameras, video recorders, mobile phones, and other devices properly stored.
  b. In case of adverse weather such as snow, rain, or sandstorms, the Mogao Caves will temporarily close to protect the cultural relics.
  c. Please protect the cultural heritage. Do not carve, write, or touch murals or painted sculptures.
  d. Anyone who damages or harms cultural relics will be dealt with according to national laws and regulations.

Evening:

Accommodation: Overnight on the train

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 7 – Lanzhou to Xi’an

Morning:
After arriving in Lanzhou by train, enjoy a local specialty breakfast — Lanzhou Beef Noodles.

Yellow River Iron Bridge — Known as the “First Bridge on the Yellow River,” with over a century of history.
Yellow River Mother Sculpture — One of the most iconic sculptures in Northwest China and a classic landmark of Lanzhou. It stands near China’s earliest iron bridge built across the Yellow River, also over 100 years old.

After the visit, take a high-speed train back to Xi’an.

Afternoon:
Upon arrival in Xi’an, visit Da Ci’en Temple (approx. 1 hour; optional tower ascent: 25 RMB/person at your own expense). This ancient temple, rich with over a thousand years of history, is a treasure of Buddhist culture. It witnessed Master Xuanzang’s legendary journey to the West and preserves many precious scriptures and relics. Walking through the temple grounds, you can feel the echoes of history and the unwavering devotion behind Xuanzang’s pursuit of truth.

In the evening, stroll through the Great Tang Everbright City. Along the street, you may encounter the famous “Never-Falling Doll” performers, interactive “Tang Mystery Boxes,” and dancers performing the elegant Hu Xuan Dance accompanied by pipa music. Your guide will lead you away from the crowds to key landmarks such as the Zhenguan Reign sculptures and Poetry Street, sharing stories of the Tang Dynasty. You can also try local snacks like brush-shaped pastries and crystal persimmons. From the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda light show to the lively street atmosphere, you’ll experience the charm and romance of Chang’an in an immersive blend of ancient and modern culture.

Dinner: Enjoy local specialty dishes: Tong Sheng Xiang Snack Banquet / Xi’an Restaurant

Evening:
Accommodation: Xi’an Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 8 – Departure from Xi’an

Morning
After enjoying a delicious and hearty buffet breakfast, enjoy free time at your leisure. Hotel check-out is at 12:00 noon; additional charges apply for late check-out.

Based on your flight schedule, please assemble in the hotel lobby for your designated airport transfer. You will be taken to Xi’an Xianyang International Airport to board your return flight, marking the perfect end to your relaxing journey!