5 Days Beijing and Xian Tour by bullet train

Experience the Best of Beijing and Xian in 5 Days with Bullet Train Travel

Traveling through China’s imperial past and vibrant present is an adventure that feels both seamless and authentic with this 5-day tour covering Beijing and Xian. For around $1,019 per person, you’ll visit key sights like the Great Wall at Mutianyu, the Forbidden City, and the Terracotta Warriors—all while traveling comfortably by bullet train in just over 5 hours. Guided by knowledgeable hosts, you’ll walk through bustling markets, ancient palaces, and serene gardens—all with the convenience of door-to-door transfers and private transportation.

What we love most about this tour are the well-organized itinerary that balances iconic highlights with local experiences—like exploring Beijing’s hutongs and sampling cuisine at the Muslim Quarter. Plus, the fast bullet train ride really cuts down travel time, allowing you to see more in less time. On the downside, there’s no included accommodation or meals, so you’ll want to plan your stay and meals accordingly. This trip suits travelers who prefer a structured, thoughtfully curated experience that covers the essentials without rushing.

If you’re eager to see the best of China’s ancient wonders and modern cities with a focus on comfort and expertise, this tour offers outstanding value. It’s especially perfect for history buffs, cultural explorers, and anyone looking for a hassle-free way to visit these two fantastic cities in a short span.

Key Points

• Efficient travel: Covering approximately 756 miles by bullet train in under 5 hours, saving precious time.
• Authentic experiences: From walking the Great Wall to exploring Beijing’s hutongs and the Muslim Quarter.
• Comprehensive sights: Visiting Beijing’s iconic landmarks, then marveling at the Terracotta Warriors in Xian.
• Guided convenience: Enjoying professional guides, private transfers, and all entrance fees included.
• Flexible sightseeing: Opportunities for optional hikes, cable car rides, and leisurely exploration.
• No accommodation included: You will need to arrange your own hotels and meals, giving you flexibility.

A Deep Dive into the 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Beijing Highlights – Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and Hutongs

We start our journey in Beijing’s iconic Tiananmen Square, the largest public square in the world. Standing here, it’s easy to understand why this space is so central to Chinese history and politics. From there, we walk into the Forbidden City, the once-imperial palace that served as the heart of China’s imperial power for centuries. The guides are typically very knowledgeable (we read reviews praising guides named Cathy and Vivian) and will help bring the history alive—though with a large site, don’t expect to uncover every secret in just two hours.

Next up is the Temple of Heaven, where emperors once prayed for good harvests. Its impressive architecture and vast grounds are still awe-inspiring, and you might enjoy watching locals practicing tai chi or playing traditional instruments. The tour wraps up with a leisurely Hutong walking tour, giving you a glimpse of everyday life in Beijing’s narrow alleyways. Travelers mention that this part gives a real sense of local lifestyle—and it’s free, adding to the authentic feel.

Day 2: The Great Wall at Mutianyu & Summer Palace

The highlight here is the Mutianyu Great Wall, a section beloved by visitors for its stunning views and well-preserved ramparts. You may opt for a hike, or take the cable car up to maximize your time on the wall. The walk here offers panoramic vistas and a chance to reflect on the sheer scale of China’s history. Some reviews mention that the Wall feels less crowded than other sections, which enhances the experience.

Afterward, we visit the Summer Palace, a sprawling complex of lakes, gardens, and palaces. It’s often praised as the largest and best-preserved imperial garden in China, and a perfect place to relax after the morning’s exertion. The combination of natural beauty and historical architecture makes this spot a favorite among travelers.

Day 3: Bullet Train to Xian

This day is primarily for travel. You’ll be picked up from your Beijing hotel, transferred to the Beijing West Railway Station, and then hop on a high-speed train to Xian, covering over 1,200 kilometers in just about five hours. Reviewers highlight how smooth and fast this journey is, making the trip between these two historic cities surprisingly quick. Once in Xian, your local driver will be waiting to take you to your accommodation or directly into the day’s activities.

Day 4: The Terracotta Warriors & Ancient City Walls

In Xian, the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum is the star. This site is often called the Eighth Wonder of the World and is one of China’s most extraordinary archaeological finds. Over 2,000 years old, these life-sized clay soldiers stand in formation, guarding the emperor’s tomb. Visitors frequently comment on how impressive and detailed the figures are, and how the site feels like stepping back in time.

Following this, you’ll visit the City Wall, one of the best-preserved in China, and climb to the top for a panoramic view of Xian. The Shuyuanmen Culture Street nearby offers a taste of local crafts and snacks, perfect for a casual stroll. Multiple reviews emphasize how guides make history accessible and engaging, often describing guides as friendly, knowledgeable, and fluent in English.

Day 5: Xian’s Cultural and Religious Heritage

The final day features the Shaanxi History Museum, which houses more than 370,000 relics from Shaanxi Province, including Tang dynasty murals, bronze ware, and pottery. Visitors love the opportunity to see artifacts that tell stories of China’s ancient civilizations. Next, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda offers a peaceful setting and insight into Buddhist architecture.

The tour concludes with visits to the Bell Tower—a city landmark—and the bustling Muslim Quarter, famous for its street food, souvenirs, and lively atmosphere. Reviewers repeatedly praise the food and the chance to experience local life, making this a lively, memorable end to the trip.

Practical Details and What to Expect

While the tour covers a lot, it’s important to note that accommodation and meals are not included. This setup offers flexibility—you can choose your hotels and pick the food that suits your taste and budget. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which simplifies logistics, and a professional guide to help interpret the sights.

Transportation is a key benefit here. Traveling between cities by bullet train is not only quick but also comfortable, with modern amenities and scenic views en route. The private transfers within each city eliminate the stress of navigating public transport, especially if your Chinese is limited.

The itinerary is packed but balanced, with enough time to enjoy each site without feeling rushed. The guided approach ensures you get context for the landmarks, which many reviews highlight as a major plus. The water bottles provided keep you hydrated, especially during long walks and sightseeing in summer.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a rundown of Beijing and Xian without the hassle of planning each detail. It appeals especially to history and culture enthusiasts, those who prefer guided tours for deeper understanding, and travelers who value convenience and efficiency. The flexible nature of some activities, like optional cable car rides or walks, means it can also accommodate those who like a bit of spontaneity.

Final Thoughts: Who is This Tour Best Suited For?

If you’re looking to see China’s top historical sites in a manageable timeframe, this tour offers excellent value. The combination of guided visits, private transport, and fast train travel makes it particularly attractive for busy travelers or families who want to maximize sightseeing. Travelers who have a moderate physical fitness level will find this itinerary quite doable, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the scenery and culture.

Just keep in mind that meals and accommodation are not included, so you’ll want to plan your hotels and dining options accordingly. It’s a good fit for those who prefer to focus on sightseeing and learning, rather than logistics.

FAQ

Is transportation between Beijing and Xian included?
Yes, the tour includes a one-way high-speed train ticket from Beijing to Xian, covering approximately 756 miles in under 5 hours.

Are guides provided at each site?
Yes, a professional guide accompanies you throughout, offering insights and context. Reviewers mention guides like Cathy, Vivian, and Michael positively.

What is not included in the tour?
You’ll need to arrange your own hotel accommodations and meals, as these are not part of the package.

Are transfers to and from hotels included?
Yes, the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off both in Beijing and Xian.

How much walking is involved?
Expect moderate walking at major sites like the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, and the Museum of Qin Warriors. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This is a private tour, so you can discuss any specific interests or adjustments with Lily’s Private Tours prior to booking.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Many reviews highlight that families, even with young children, enjoy the experience, especially with guides who are patient and accommodating.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat or umbrella for sun protection, a refillable water bottle, and your passport for entrance tickets.

To sum it up, this 5-day Beijing and Xian tour strikes a nice balance between guided expertise and personal exploration, making it an excellent choice for those eager to see China’s most famous sights without the stress of logistics. It offers a good mix of history, culture, and scenery—perfect for first-time visitors or those with limited time who want a meaningful, well-organized experience.