Xi’an isn’t just about the Terracotta Warriors or ancient city walls; it’s also a fantastic place to get your hands dirty (metaphorically, of course) with unique workshops and classes. Whether you want to master Chinese calligraphy, learn how to cook local dishes with a family, or carve your own seal, Xi’an offers authentic experiences that go beyond sightseeing. We especially like the Chinese calligraphy workshop, where you can learn the art of writing with brush and ink from a local expert, combined with tea tasting and creating your own fan. It’s a perfect way to understand Chinese aesthetics and culture firsthand.
What makes Xi’an stand out for these classes is their focus on hands-on learning with local artisans and families. They offer a real taste of life and craftsmanship in this historic city, making your visit both memorable and meaningful. Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, these workshops offer engaging ways to connect with Xi’an’s artistic traditions.
1. Xi’an Chinese Calligraphy Workshop: Ink Art & Tea Tasting
At number 1, the Xi’an Chinese Calligraphy Workshop offers a deep dive into one of China’s most revered art forms. Priced at $53 per person and lasting about 3 hours, this experience pairs learning Chinese calligraphy with a tea tasting session. You’ll learn the basic brush strokes and the cultural stories behind Chinese characters, guided by a local expert who’s passionate about sharing this ancient craft.
What sets this apart is the chance to create your own hand-painted fan or scroll, making it more than just a demonstration. You’ll practice writing meaningful characters and mastering strokes, which makes this workshop ideal for those who want to understand Chinese aesthetics in a tactile way. The small group size ensures plenty of personal attention, and reviews praise the instructor’s patience and clear guidance.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in traditional Chinese arts and want a memorable, hands-on experience, this workshop offers excellent value. It’s perfect for art lovers and curious travelers alike who want a meaningful souvenir—your own calligraphy artwork.
2. Xi’an: Market Tour and Cooking Class with Local Family
For around $50, the Market Tour and Cooking Class provides a warm, home-style introduction to Xi’an’s food scene. This experience takes you through a bustling local market, where you’ll shop for fresh ingredients under the guidance of your host. Then, step into a cozy home kitchen to learn how to prepare some of the city’s signature dishes, including hand-pulled Biang Biang noodles and pork dumplings.
What makes this class stand out is the opportunity to cook with a local family, giving you insider tips and authentic recipes you can recreate at home. After cooking, you’ll sit down to enjoy your creations, complemented by stories about local food traditions. The review mentions “cooking in a welcoming home environment” and “learning tips that made my dinner party a hit.” It’s suitable for foodies and travelers who crave genuine interactions.
Bottom line: This tour offers a charming, immersive way to understand Xi’an cuisine and culture, with an emphasis on practical skills you can use long after your trip.
$50 per person
3. Private Terracotta Warriors Tour + Seal Carving Workshop
At number 3, the Private Terracotta Warriors Tour + Seal Carving Workshop combines sightseeing with a craft activity. For $225 per person, this full-day private tour includes visits to the Terracotta Warriors Museum, the Muslim Quarter, and the City Wall, topped with a seal carving class guided by a master artisan.
The highlight is the chance to carve your own seal—an ancient Chinese tradition used for stamping documents and art. The tour’s private nature means you can customize the itinerary, and the guide shares expert insights into Xi’an’s history. During the visit to the museum, you’ll see the thousands of life-sized warriors, a must-see for history buffs. The seal carving workshop adds a creative touch, allowing you to take home a personal souvenir.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers interested in history and craftsmanship, this tour offers a comprehensive cultural experience with the bonus of a unique, hands-on craft.
$225 per person
4. Xi’an: Intangible Cultural Heritage Craft Workshop
The Intangible Cultural Heritage Craft Workshop is priced at $119 and introduces you to Xi’an’s artistic roots. You can choose from Cloisonné Enamel, Terracotta Warrior Sculpting, or Traditional Paper Cutting. Led by skilled artisans, this experience is designed for those interested in traditional crafts.
What makes this workshop special is its focus on craftsmanship that’s been passed down for centuries. Participants create their own keepsakes—whether a painted fan, a terracotta figurine, or a paper art piece—while learning about the cultural significance behind each craft. Add-on activities like lacquer fan painting or woodblock printing deepen the experience for dedicated craft lovers.
Bottom line: If you want a hands-on cultural experience that produces a tangible souvenir, this workshop offers excellent value and insight into Xi’an’s artistic legacy.
$119 per person
5. Xi’an: Terracotta Army, Hua Mo Class, Tang Show & Dumpling Tour
Rounding out our list, the Terracotta Army, Hua Mo Class, Tang Show & Dumpling Tour is a full-day adventure for $140. It starts with the Terracotta Warriors, then includes a Hua Mo (flower bun) workshop where you make your own buns, and ends with a Tang Dynasty-style dinner and show.
This tour is perfect if you want a broad cultural experience without multiple bookings. The Hua Mo class is a fun, interactive way to learn a traditional craft, and the Tang Show offers lively entertainment showcasing historical costumes and music. The tour includes hotel or airport pickup, making logistics easy for travelers with limited time.
Bottom line: Ideal for history and culture fans who also enjoy a bit of entertainment and hands-on fun, this tour packs a lot into a single day.
$140 per person
How to Choose
When deciding between these workshops, consider your interests, budget, and schedule. If you’re passionate about Chinese calligraphy or traditional crafts, the Calligraphy Workshop or the Intangible Cultural Heritage Craft Workshop are excellent options. For food lovers, the Market Tour and Cooking Class offers a delicious and authentic experience.
Travelers with a full day for sightseeing may prefer the private tour that combines the Terracotta Warriors with seal carving, which balances history with a craft activity. If you want a comprehensive cultural day with performances and hands-on activities, the Dumpling Tour and Tang Show is perfect.
Final Thoughts
Xi’an offers a surprising variety of workshops and classes that deepen your understanding of Chinese culture and craftsmanship. For a relaxing, artistic experience, the calligraphy and craft workshops shine. If you prefer food and family connections, the cooking class is hard to beat. And for those with a full day to spare, combining historical sights with cultural activities makes for a well-rounded visit.
We recommend booking early, especially for popular options like the private tour or calligraphy workshop, to secure your spot. Each experience provides a meaningful way to engage with Xi’an’s artistic soul—making your trip more than just sightseeing. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an art lover, these workshops will leave you with memorable skills and stories to share.