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    • Why Travel with Discover Beijing Tours

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    7-Day Xi’An and Ningxia: China’s Eternal Tombs, from the Terracotta Warriors to the Western Xia Legacy

    7 days

    China’s expansive landscape is etched with the imprints of its dynasties—each leaving behind enduring monuments that embody power, culture, and faith. Few are as iconic as Xi’an’s Terracotta Warriors, a defining archaeological breakthrough of the 20th century. Yet beyond the Qin emperor’s monumental ambition lies a more serene, lesser-explored chapter of history: Ningxia’s Western Xia Tombs, recently added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. This journey weaves a connection between these two imperial legacies, unfolding against a striking backdrop of desert valleys, rugged mountain ranges, and a burgeoning wine region.

    Itinerary Quick Look

    Embark on a captivating 7-day journey that weaves together China’s most celebrated imperial wonders and its lesser-known historical gems, spanning from Xi’an’s iconic Terracotta Warriors to Ningxia’s UNESCO-listed Western Xia Tombs—all set against backdrops of deserts, mountains, and emerging wine country.

    Day 1 – Arrival in Xi’an

    Touch down in Xi’an, the ancient capital that once marked the eastern end of the Silk Road. After your late-night transfer, settle into your hotel and rest up, ready to embark on a westward voyage into the untold corners of Chinese history.

    Day 2 – Xi’an → Yinchuan: Ancient Rock Art & Cultural Revival

    Board a high-speed train north to Yinchuan (~3.5 hours), the capital of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. Nestled between the Helan Mountains and the Yellow River, this city blends natural beauty with deep historical roots.
    Kick off the afternoon at the Helan Mountain Rock Art Site, where prehistoric petroglyphs carved into cliff faces whisper stories of the early civilizations that once flourished in this arid region. Continue to the Han Meilin Art Museum, a striking venue showcasing contemporary reimaginings of traditional Chinese symbols—including heartfelt tributes to the Western Xia Dynasty.

    Day 3 – Western Xia Tombs & Ningxia’s Wine Country

    Devote the morning to the Western Xia Tombs, an imperial necropolis constructed by the rulers of the 11th-century Tangut kingdom. Perched against the Helan Mountains, these earthen mausoleums stand as a rare surviving testament to a dynasty that once rivaled the Song and Liao empires. Though time and erosion have softened their contours, ongoing conservation efforts and their new UNESCO World Heritage status are shining fresh light on this overlooked chapter of Chinese history.
    In the afternoon, shift from ancient stone to fertile soil with visits to two of Ningxia’s renowned wineries. Blessed with high-altitude sunshine and mineral-rich terrain, the region has quietly emerged as one of China’s premier wine-producing destinations. Indulge in private tastings and deepen your understanding of the local terroir, which is now garnering global acclaim.

    Day 4 – Yellow River Journey: Pagodas & Desert Retreat

    Travel south across desert plains to Zhongwei, making a stop at Xige Estate for a leisurely vineyard lunch. The estate’s striking architecture—crafted from nearly 200,000 Helan Mountain stones and embodying the “heavenly circle, earthly square” philosophy—adds to the experience .
    Continue west along the Yellow River to the 108 Pagodas, an enigmatic cluster of white stupas clinging to the cliffside with sweeping views over the water. This serene site invites spiritual contemplation, especially as late-afternoon light bathes the riverbend in golden hues. Arrive in Shapotou by evening and check into the Yellow River Commune, a one-of-a-kind retreat nestled among the sand dunes.

    Day 5 – Route 66 & Damaidi Rock Art Discovery

    Venture off the beaten path today with a drive along China’s picturesque Route 66. This remote stretch of road, surrounded by sand and scrubland, leads you to Beichangtan village. From there, head into the foothills to explore Damaidi Rock Carvings, where thousands of ancient engravings—some dating back over 3,000 years—are preserved on cliff faces. These carvings, hailed for their profound cultural significance and artistic charm, offer a rare window into prehistoric life . Return to your lodge for a relaxed evening.

    Day 6 – Return to Xi’an: City Walls & Big Wild Goose Pagoda

    Travel back to Xi’an via bullet train (~4 hours). Spend the afternoon exploring the Ancient City Walls, which still encircle the old town with their imposing watchtowers and ramparts. Walk or cycle along the top for panoramic views of Xi’an’s blend of ancient and modern architecture. Later, visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a Tang Dynasty landmark that once served as a repository for Buddhist scriptures brought from India by the renowned monk Xuanzang.

    Day 7 – Terracotta Warriors & Xi’an’s Tang-Era Nights

    No trip to Xi’an is complete without a visit to the Terracotta Warriors, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that needs little introduction. Discovered in 1974, this subterranean army of soldiers, horses, and chariots stands in silent formation around the mausoleum of Emperor Qin Shi Huang. Its sheer scale and intricate detail remain awe-inspiring—a powerful testament to imperial ambition and ancient beliefs about the afterlife.
    As night falls, explore Datang Everbright City, a pedestrian street brought to life with vibrant lights, street performances, and Tang Dynasty-inspired architecture. This modern homage to Xi’an’s golden age seamlessly blends history and entertainment, providing a fitting conclusion to your journey.
    From the grandeur of Xi’an’s Terracotta Army to the understated legacy of Ningxia’s Western Xia, this trip peels back China’s layers—revealing dynasties that are celebrated, forgotten, and rediscovered. While one necropolis commands global attention and the other is only just reclaiming its place in history, both invite reflection on the power of memory, architecture, and the desert’s quiet grip on the past.
    Would you like me to create a day-by-day packing list tailored to this itinerary? It will include essentials for desert exploration, cultural site visits, and wine tastings to ensure you’re fully prepared.

    Discount available at low season, please send inquiries!



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    7-Day Xi’An and Ningxia: China’s Eternal Tombs, from the Terracotta Warriors to the Western Xia Legacy

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