Kungfu Class and Bicycling on Xi’an City Wall

Experience traditional Chinese kung fu and cycling on Xi’an’s ancient city wall with this engaging 3-hour tour priced at $99 per person. Led by friendly guides from Xi’an China Travel Service, you’ll start with a 1 to 1.5-hour kung fu lesson—either Hong Quan or Taiji—followed by a cycle along the historic city wall, offering you a unique glimpse into Xi’an’s past.

What we love most about this experience is how accessible it is: it combines the physicality and cultural significance of martial arts with breathtaking views of the city. Plus, the inclusion of bicycles and a guided lesson makes it a hassle-free way to get active while soaking in history.

A potential consideration is that the duration is relatively short, so if you’re craving a deep dive into either kung fu or Xi’an’s history, you might want to supplement this experience with other tours. Still, it’s perfect for travelers seeking a lively introduction to Xi’an, especially if you want a mix of culture, exercise, and scenic views in a manageable time frame.

This tour suits visitors who are curious about Chinese martial arts, eager for outdoor activity, or looking for an authentic and fun way to explore Xi’an’s city wall. Families, solo travelers, or small groups will find it straightforward and engaging.

Key Points

• Authentic martial arts experience in a traditional Chinese style.
• Scenic cycling along one of the world’s best-preserved ancient city walls.
• All-in-one package: includes kung fu lessons, bike ride, and entry tickets.
• Flexible options: choose between Taiji or Hong Quan.
• Great value: combines culture, history, and activity for a reasonable price.
• Ideal for travelers wanting an active and cultural introduction to Xi’an.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

Meeting Point and Convenience

The tour begins at the Yongning Palace Hotel, conveniently located at 2 Nan Da Jie in Xi’an’s Bei Lin district. The meeting point’s proximity to public transportation makes it easy for most travelers to find, especially after a day of exploring other attractions. You’ll meet your guide and a martial arts master who will introduce you to your lesson.

The Kung Fu Lesson: Hong Quan or Taiji

The core of this experience is the kung fu class, which lasts around 1 to 1.5 hours. You can pick either Hong Quan, a style renowned for its powerful and broad movements, or Taiji, known for its flowing, meditative motions. This flexibility allows you to select a style that matches your interest or physical ability.

The lesson is designed for all skill levels—beginners will find it accessible, while more experienced martial artists might appreciate the authentic techniques. The guides and masters are typically very friendly, patient, and eager to share their knowledge, making it suitable even for those with little to no prior experience.

Why We Like the Martial Arts Component

We loved the way the lesson offers a glimpse into a living Chinese tradition—it’s not just about watching a performance, but actively participating. Plus, the physical movements and focus required help you feel more connected to Chinese culture beyond sightseeing. Many travelers mentioned that their instructors were enthusiastic and eager to explain the history and philosophy behind the styles.

The City Wall Bike Ride

After the martial arts session, you’ll visit the South Gate (Yongningmen) to start your bicycle ride on the Xi’an City Wall. This is one of the few preserved city walls in China that you can cycle on, and it provides an excellent perspective on the city’s layout and history.

The bike ride lasts about 1 hour and is included in the ticket. During this time, you’ll see stunning views of Xi’an’s skyline, traditional architecture, and other historic sites from a vantage point few travelers get to experience. The wall itself is well-maintained, and cycling along it is surprisingly smooth and safe, even for casual riders.

What Makes the Cycling Special?

We loved the chance to see the city from above—the wall offers a wide, flat pathway with clear views in all directions. It’s a peaceful contrast to the bustling streets below, and the vista of Xi’an’s mixture of old and new is truly memorable. It’s also a relaxing way to stretch your legs after the martial arts lesson.

Additional Details

The tour includes bicycles, drinks, and admission tickets for both the South Gate and the city wall. While it doesn’t include meals or tips, the overall package offers good value considering the combination of activities and cultural insights.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable clothing suitable for light activity—think flexible, breathable fabrics.
• Bring sunscreen and a hat, especially if visiting during warm months.
• The bike ride is one hour; if you’re an avid cyclist, you might want to extend your ride on your own.
• Photographers will love the views from the wall—don’t forget your camera or smartphone.
• The entire experience lasts roughly three hours, making it manageable even on a busy sightseeing day.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Unlike typical sightseeing tours, this experience actively engages you in Chinese culture through martial arts and physical activity. The combination of a traditional kung fu class and scenic cycling offers a memorable way to connect with Xi’an’s history and architecture. The inclusion of small-group dynamics and attentive guides ensures you get a personalized experience.

The scenic views from the city wall are a highlight—many travelers mention how the vistas made their visit feel more authentic and less touristy. It’s ideal for those who want their travel experience to be both enlightening and enjoyable.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is perfect for adventure-minded travelers, families with children, or anyone interested in Chinese martial arts and history. It’s also well-suited for visitors who want a short, active experience that combines cultural insight with fresh air and spectacular views. If you’re seeking a more relaxed, museum-style visit, this might not be the best fit, but if you enjoy hands-on experiences, it’s a winner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the kung fu lesson is designed to accommodate all skill levels, including complete beginners.

How long does the bike ride last?
The bike ride on the city wall lasts about one hour and is included in the ticket.

Are the bicycles provided?
Yes, bicycles are provided for the duration of the ride, along with drinks to keep you refreshed.

What styles of kung fu can I choose?
You can opt for either Hong Quan or Taiji, depending on your preference.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Absolutely. The activities are suitable for most ages, and the scenic cycling makes it fun for kids and adults alike.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at the Yongning Palace Hotel in Xi’an’s Bei Lin district.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the kung fu lesson, bicycle ride, entrance tickets to Yongningmen and the city wall, and drinks.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a lively, authentic way to get a taste of Xi’an’s dynamic culture—combining physical activity, history, and stunning views in just a few hours. It’s an especially good choice if you want more than just sightseeing and are interested in experiencing Chinese martial arts firsthand.

The price is fair considering the quality and variety of activities included, and the flexibility of choosing between styles makes it even more appealing. Whether you’re a history buff, a martial arts enthusiast, or simply looking for a different way to see Xi’an, this tour delivers on both fun and insight.

For those seeking a unique, active, and culturally immersive experience in Xi’an, this tour hits all the right notes. Just be prepared for some physical activity and a lot of beautiful views—it’s a memorable way to deepen your understanding of this ancient city.