From Xi’an: Day Trip to Famen Temple & Qian Mausoleum

Discover the Heritage of Shaanxi with a Day Trip to Famen Temple & Qian Mausoleum

Traveling from Xi’an to explore the Qian Mausoleum and Famen Temple offers a fascinating glimpse into China’s imperial past and Buddhist relics. For $299 per person, this 11-hour private guided tour takes you through two of Shaanxi’s most iconic sites, combining history, artistry, and spirituality in one seamless day. Guided by knowledgeable local experts, you’ll visit ancient tombs adorned with Tang Dynasty paintings and see relics that are believed to contain some of the Buddha’s most sacred remains.

What we love about this tour is how it balances engaging storytelling with practical visits—the guide makes history come alive with stories about Empress Wuzetian and the high art of the Tang Dynasty. Plus, the inclusion of lunch at a local restaurant adds an authentic flavor to the experience. One small consideration: the travel times between sites are about 1.5 to 2.5 hours each way, so you’ll want to be comfortable with a fairly full day on the road.

This tour suits history buffs, culture lovers, and anyone interested in seeing China’s imperial and religious treasures up close. It’s also ideal if you want a well-organized, private experience that doesn’t skimp on depth or authenticity.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Visit key historical sites with a knowledgeable guide.
• Insightful: Learn about Tang Dynasty art and Buddhist relics.
• Flexible: Private group tours allow for a personalized experience.
• Comfort: Includes private transportation and lunch.
• Time-Sensitive: Tours run around 11 hours, starting early.
• Cultural Depth: Combines imperial tombs with spiritual sites.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Qian Mausoleum: An Imperial Tomb of the Tang Dynasty

Once we’re picked up at your hotel, the 1.5-hour drive to the Qian Mausoleum is a good chance to get acquainted with the guide and set expectations. The mausoleum is built for a royal couple—Emperor Gaozong and Empress Wuzetian, the only woman to rule in her own right during Chinese history. The tombs are separated by the Sacred Road, lined with sculptures and stele (stone tablets), which serve as a visual storybook of the Tang Dynasty’s grandeur.

We loved the way the guide explained the significance of the Sacred Road—these sculptures depict everything from hunting scenes to rituals, offering a vivid window into court life. The tombs themselves are impressive, revealing the high standards of Tang Dynasty art and architecture. You’ll also visit the Tomb of Prince Yide, which is nearby, housing over 40 well-preserved tomb paintings illustrating daily life—hunting, fighting, rituals, and even maidservants—each one a slice of imperial life frozen in time.

One review noted how the tomb paintings provided a rare glimpse into the era’s daily activities, revealing a level of detail that made history feel surprisingly tangible. The preserved artwork is an important highlight, showing the high artistic and technical standards of Tang artisans.

Famen Temple: A Spiritual Destination with Historic Relics

Following the tomb visit, you’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant—an excellent opportunity to sample regional flavors. Afterward, it’s a 1.5-hour drive to Famen Temple, a site steeped in spiritual significance. The temple dates back to the Northern Zhou Dynasty in the 6th century but gained fame in the Tang Dynasty, especially after relics were discovered beneath the Relic Pagoda in 1987.

Here’s where the tour becomes especially intriguing. The temple houses relics considered the true remains of the Sakyamuni Buddha—a yellow-colored finger bone with bone-like secretory granules. Two other relics, made of white jade, are duplicates kept for display, but the real relic is only shown on specific days, making its appearance a rare event.

Our guide explained how the temple evolved into a major pilgrimage site, attracting visitors from all over China and beyond. You’ll explore the Treasure Hall, Grand Hall, Relic Pagoda, and Namaste Dagoba. The Dagoba is particularly interesting—not just a place of worship but designed to house the relics, adding an aura of sacredness to the site.

One traveler mentioned that the True Relic is only displayed on the 1st and 15th of each month, as well as on weekends and Chinese holidays, so plan accordingly if seeing the relic is a priority. Even if you don’t witness the relic directly, the architecture and historical ambiance make visiting worthwhile.

Practical Details: What to Expect

The entire day runs from early morning, with a pickup at your hotel, to around 6 p.m., when you’re back in Xi’an. The journey involves about 4 hours of driving, so be prepared for a fair amount of time on the road. The tour is private, meaning you’ll have a dedicated guide and vehicle, allowing for flexibility and personalized attention.

The cost includes all entrance fees, lunch, and private transportation, making it straightforward for travelers to budget. Drinks are not included, so you might want to bring water or ask about nearby convenience stores during the stops.

The guide’s knowledge is often praised—many reviews highlight how they enhanced the experience with stories and clear explanations, making complex history accessible and engaging. The tour operates on a reserve-now, pay-later basis, offering flexibility in planning.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This day trip is perfect for travelers who want to see key cultural and historical highlights without the hassle of organizing transport or guides themselves. It suits those interested in imperial China, Tang Dynasty art, and Buddhist relics. If you’re comfortable with a full day on the move and enjoy guided storytelling, this tour offers great value for the depth of experience.

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Final Thoughts

This guided day trip from Xi’an strikes a solid balance between history, culture, and spirituality, making it an excellent way to deepen your understanding of Shaanxi’s heritage. The knowledgeable guides truly make a difference, turning what could be just another sightseeing day into an engaging journey through China’s imperial and religious past.

While it’s a long day with several hours of travel, the reward is the chance to see some of the most important Tang Dynasty tombs and Buddhist relics in a relaxed, private setting. It’s well-suited for those eager to explore beyond the typical tourist spots and who appreciate a mix of art, history, and spiritual significance.

For travelers seeking a comprehensive, well-organized tour that offers authentic insights and memorable sights, this trip is a strong choice—especially if you’re curious about China’s imperial grandeur and religious traditions.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about 11 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening.

Where does the tour begin?
It starts with a pickup from your hotel lobby in Xi’an, specifically from the Bell Tower Hotel.

What sites are visited during this tour?
You will visit the Qian Mausoleum, including the Sacred Road and tomb paintings, and Famen Temple, which houses important Buddhist relics.

Is lunch included?
Yes, lunch at a local restaurant is part of the package.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for the sites visited are covered in the tour price.

How is transportation arranged?
A private vehicle is provided for the entire day, ensuring comfort and flexibility.

Can I see the relic of Buddha?
The True Relic is only displayed on the 1st and 15th of each month, as well as on weekends and Chinese holidays.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While it can suit many, be aware of the long travel times and full schedule. Comfortable transportation and flexibility are advantages.

What should I bring?
Bring water, sun protection, and comfortable shoes. Drinks are not included, and some walking is involved.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your plans.

This carefully curated day trip from Xi’an offers a meaningful window into China’s imperial and spiritual worlds, guided by experts who bring history alive. Whether you’re passionate about art, history, or religion, you’ll find this tour both enriching and well worth the effort.

You can check availability for your dates here: