When visiting Xi’an, you’ll find several hands-on workshops that make perfect sense for curious travelers. The city’s cooking classes are particularly worthwhile, featuring dumpling-making in family homes and traditional noodle-pulling demonstrations. I’m especially fond of the small-group sessions where local hosts teach age-old techniques for crafting those famous biang biang noodles.
Cultural workshops deserve attention too. The combination tours that pair City Wall visits with traditional arts like calligraphy and paper cutting are smart choices – you get both sightseeing and hands-on learning. What I love most: these classes are kept small, usually 6-8 people, so you’ll get plenty of personal attention.
Check out these top-rated Xi’an workshops that bring Chinese traditions to life.
Good To Know
- Immersive dumpling making classes in a local home setting, with hands-on dough preparation and filling creation, rated 5.0 stars.
- Biang biang noodle making workshops that combine noodle crafting with visits to spice markets and cultural insights.
- Comprehensive culinary experiences that cover making biangbiang noodles, dumplings, and traditional Chinese pastries in small group settings.
- Unique blend of biking along the Xi’an City Wall and hands-on calligraphy lessons, led by licensed English-speaking guides.
- Accessibility and flexibility features, including wheelchair-friendly options, free cancellation, and a lowest price guarantee across various workshops and classes.
Private Home Cooking Class:Dumpling Cooking Class Tour in Xian
One of the best ways to learn about Xian’s vibrant culinary scene is through a private home cooking class focused on making traditional dumplings.
This half-day experience allows you to learn from a local chef in an intimate setting – a family home. You’ll master the art of creating authentic Xian-style noodles or dumplings, with a focus on the latter.
The class begins with mixing flour and water to create the perfect dumpling dough, then you’ll prepare the flavorful filling. Next, you’ll learn the techniques for crafting the delicate dumpling skins.
Finally, you’ll assemble the dumplings before enjoying your homemade meal. The class includes all necessary equipment and ingredients, as well as an English-speaking guide to provide cultural insights.
With a 5.0-star rating from 7 reviews, this private cooking experience is an excellent way to learn about Xian’s culinary heritage. Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off are provided, making this class accessible and hassle-free.
Read our full review: Private Home Cooking Class:Dumpling Cooking Class Tour in Xian Review
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Half-Day Xian Biang Biang Noodles Cooking Class With Spice Market Visit
If you’re seeking to learn about the vibrant culinary culture of Xi’an, the Half-Day Xian Biang Biang Noodles Cooking Class with Spice Market Visit offers an exceptional opportunity. This small-group experience focuses on the city’s renowned biang biang noodles, combining a hands-on cooking class with a visit to a local spice market.
During the class, you’ll learn the art of making these thick, chewy noodles from scratch, guided by knowledgeable instructors like Michael and Bruce. The intimate setting, with a maximum of 15 participants, ensures a personalized experience.
Beyond the noodle-making, you’ll also enjoy a selection of beverages and food tastings.
The spice market visit allows you to gather the necessary ingredients, providing deeper insights into Xi’an’s vibrant culinary traditions. While some participants expected a more traditional cooking format, the relaxed and informative class delivers a memorable immersion in the city’s local life.
Whether you’re a food enthusiast or simply curious about Chinese cuisine, this class is a must-try.
Read our full review: Half-Day Xian Biang Biang Noodles Cooking Class With Spice Market Visit Review
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Biking Tour With Calligraphy Class
Combining the thrill of biking and the tranquility of calligraphy, the Biking Tour with Calligraphy Class in Xi’an offers travelers a unique cultural experience. This mix of sightseeing activities is ideal for those with limited time.
The tour starts with a visit to a bustling open-air market, giving you a glimpse of everyday life. You’ll then bike along the 640-year-old Xi’an City Wall, a popular tourist activity.
The tour concludes with a lesson in the ancient art of calligraphy. Pickup from select hotels is included, and the tour is wheelchair accessible.
With a perfect 5.0-star rating from 2 reviews, this experience is led by a licensed, English-speaking guide. Priced at $79.49 per person, the tour includes the calligraphy master’s teaching fee, bottled water, and gratuities.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start. Whether you’re a cycling enthusiast or an art lover, this tour provides an immersive way to explore Xi’an’s rich cultural heritage.
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3 Hours Xian Mahjong Class With Local Tea
Hosted in a tranquil Xian courtyard, the 3-hour Xian Mahjong Class immerses participants in the authentic Chinese cultural experience of playing the iconic tile-based game.
Limited to just 8 attendees, the small-group setting ensures personalized attention from the professional guide. During the class, you’ll learn the rules and strategies of traditional Mahjong while sampling local teas and snacks.
The experience starts at the convenient Home Inn Xian Zhonglou West Main Street location, easily accessible via Metro Line 2.
Throughout the class, you’ll be provided with bottled water, coffee, and tea. Gratuities are also included, ensuring a hassle-free outing.
The activity is suitable for most travelers, including those in wheelchairs or with young children.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a pay-later option, booking this 5-star rated Mahjong class is a breeze.
Read our full review: 3 Hours Xian Mahjong Class With Local Tea Review
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3-Hour Biang Biang Noodles Cooking Class in Xian
This 3-hour Biang Biang Noodles Cooking Class in Xian, China, offers participants the opportunity to learn the art of creating the famous hand-pulled noodles known for their distinctive sound.
The small group class, limited to a maximum of 10 people, provides an intimate setting for hands-on instruction from an English-speaking chef. During the 1-hour class, you will learn the traditional techniques for making these iconic noodles, followed by a noodle party to savor their creations.
The class includes complimentary tea and coffee, and participants can expect a well-rounded experience with a walk through a local market and an introduction to Xian’s vibrant food scene.
While the class isn’t wheelchair accessible, infants are welcome to sit on laps. Pricing starts at $74.88 per person, with a lowest price guarantee. However, the class is non-refundable, and no cancellations are allowed.
Based on a 5-star review, the class and the host, Michael, have received high praise from a past participant.
Read our full review: 3-Hour Biang Biang Noodles Cooking Class in Xian Review
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Terracotta Warriors From Qin & Han With Simulated Archaeological Digging Class
Explore the rich history and cultural significance of the Terracotta Warriors from the Qin and Han dynasties on this private tour in Xian, China. This immersive experience includes a visit to the iconic archaeological site and an optional simulated digging class.
The tour is led by a professional guide and transportation is provided by a private vehicle, with pickup from your downtown Xian hotel or Airbnb. Bottled water, all taxes, and hotel pickup and drop-off are included.
The simulated digging class requires a reservation at least one week in advance and isn’t wheelchair accessible, but stroller and infant seat options are available. A moderate level of physical fitness is required for this tour.
Flexibility is built-in, as you can cancel up to 24 hours before the experience starts for a full refund. Prices start at $179.49 per person, varying by group size, and you can reserve now and pay later.
Read our full review: Terracotta Warriors From Qin & Han With Simulated Archaeological Digging Class Review
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Private Day Tour of Xian Tangbo Art Museum Art Class and Terracotta Warriors
Visitors can embark on a private day tour that showcases the best of Xian’s cultural heritage. Priced from $173 per person, this tour provides access to the renowned Terracotta Warriors and the Tangbo Art Museum. A private guide will lead the way, offering insights and context throughout the experience.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day. Participants can expect to explore the impressive Terracotta Warriors, an archaeological marvel, and the Tangbo Art Museum, which houses a collection of Tang Dynasty artwork.
Comfortable transportation and admission fees are covered, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the cultural richness of Xian. With no serious medical conditions required and wheelchair-accessible transportation, this tour is accessible to most travelers.
Positive reviews highlight the excellent service and the opportunity to learn about Xian’s history and art. This private day tour provides a comprehensive and enjoyable cultural experience in Xian.
Read our full review: Private Day Tour of Xian Tangbo Art Museum Art Class and Terracotta Warriors Review
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4-Hour Guided Trip: City Wall Biking and Calligraphy Class From Xian
Embarking on a 4-hour guided trip, visitors to Xian can explore the city’s rich cultural heritage through a unique combination of biking along the historic City Wall and partaking in a traditional Chinese calligraphy class.
The private tour, led by an English-speaking guide, provides an immersive experience, including private transportation, bicycle rental, and entrance fees.
Cyclists will traverse the iconic City Wall, taking in views of the ancient city, before heading to a Shaanxi folk art studio for a calligraphy class. Under the guidance of a local expert, you will learn the art of Chinese calligraphy, gaining an appreciation for this timeless tradition.
With all gratuities covered, this private tour offers a seamless and enriching cultural encounter. Priced from €120.03 per person, the experience can be booked with a lowest price guarantee and flexible cancellation policy, making it an attractive option for travelers seeking an authentic taste of Xian.
Read our full review: 4-Hour Guided Trip: City Wall Biking and Calligraphy Class From Xian Review
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Terracotta Army Day Tour With Biangbiang Noodles Making Class
This immersive Xian tour takes travelers on a journey to uncover the ancient Terracotta Army and offers a hands-on experience in the art of making Biangbiang noodles. Priced at $225 per person, this private tour includes round-trip transportation, entrance tickets, and an English-speaking guide.
Guests can look forward to a delightful dinner where they’ll learn to make the famous Biangbiang noodles, as well as a tasty lunch during the day.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it suitable for most travelers. With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, and the option to reserve now and pay later, this experience provides flexibility.
Whether you’re fascinated by ancient history or eager to learn a new culinary skill, this Terracotta Army tour with a Biangbiang noodles class is an excellent way to learn about the rich culture of Xian.
Read our full review: Terracotta Army Day Tour With Biangbiang Noodles Making Class Review
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Half-Day Xian Dumplings Making Class From Scratch
For those looking to enjoy Xian’s rich culinary heritage, the Half-Day Xian Dumplings Making Class from Scratch offers a hands-on experience in crafting these beloved Chinese delicacies.
Located in Xian, the class allows participants to learn the art of making dumplings from scratch, with options for either vegetarian or meat-filled varieties.
During the half-day session, participants won’t only prepare the dumplings but also enjoy them for both lunch and dinner, savoring the fruits of their labor.
The class also includes local snacks like sunflower seeds and spring rolls, along with a selection of beverages, including free beer, Coke, Sprite, coffee, tea, and local green tea with jasmine.
The meeting point for the class is the SAJINQIAO Metro Stop Exit B (Line 1) in Xian, Shaanxi, China, with the experience returning to the same location.
With a maximum of 20 travelers, this class is suitable for those seeking an immersive culinary adventure in the heart of Xian.
Read our full review: Half-Day Xian Dumplings Making Class From Scratch Review
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4-Hour Trip of Big Wild Goose Pagoda and Pottery Making Class In Xian
Pairing cultural exploration with a hands-on creative endeavor, the Hour Trip of Big Wild Goose Pagoda and Pottery Making Class in Xian offers visitors an immersive experience.
This half-day tour combines the iconic Big Wild Goose Pagoda with a pottery-making class, providing a well-rounded introduction to Xian’s rich heritage.
The tour includes private transfers from your hotel, allowing for a seamless start to the day.
With an English-speaking guide, you’ll visit downtown attractions and learn about the city’s history and culture.
The highlight is the hands-on pottery-making class, where you’ll have the opportunity to create your own piece under the guidance of an experienced instructor.
Priced from $120.52 per person, the tour offers excellent value, with entrance fees, mineral water, and gratuities included.
Flexibility is built-in, too, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
Whether you’re a family or a solo traveler, this experience promises an engaging and memorable exploration of Xian’s rich heritage.
Read our full review: 4-Hour Trip of Big Wild Goose Pagoda and Pottery Making Class In Xian Review
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Full-Day Xian Highlight Tour With Pottery Making Class
Combining cultural highlights with a hands-on creative experience, the Full-Day Xian Highlight Tour with Pottery Making Class offers visitors an immersive exploration of the city’s rich heritage.
Kicking off with a visit to the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, the tour delves into Xian’s remarkable history. After a local lunch, guests marvel at the musical fountain and the iconic Big Wild Goose Pagoda.
The highlight of the day is the pottery making class, where participants create their own unique artwork to take home as a memento.
Priced from $202.57 per person, the tour provides private transportation, an English-speaking guide, and all entrance fees. Conveniently, hotel pickup and drop-off are included.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, travelers can book with confidence. Whether you’re a history buff or a creative spirit, this Xian highlight tour promises an unforgettable day.
Read our full review: Full-Day Xian Highlight Tour With Pottery Making Class Review
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Xian Afternoon City Wall Tour Including Chinese Paper Cutting Class
Visitors to Xian can explore the city’s architectural heritage and cultural traditions on the Xian Afternoon City Wall Tour, which includes a hands-on Chinese paper cutting class. This half-day experience showcases the iconic 14th-century City Wall, the vibrant Muslim Quarter, and the ancient art of paper cutting.
The tour begins with a walk along the massive City Wall, the oldest, biggest, and best-preserved in China. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of the city before venturing into the lively Muslim Street, known for its delectable food stalls.
The highlight of the tour is the paper cutting class held at the Gao Grand Courtyard, a 400-year-old residential house turned arts venue. Participants will learn the traditional Chinese art of ‘jianzhi,’ creating decorative and auspicious designs.
The tour includes hotel pickup, an English-speaking guide, and a competitive price of $65.39 per person with a lowest price guarantee.
Read our full review: Xian Afternoon City Wall Tour Including Chinese Paper Cutting Class Review
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Half-Day Xian Steamed Buns(Baozi) Cooking Class With Market Visit
Offering an immersive cultural experience, the Half-Day Xian Steamed Buns(Baozi) Cooking Class with Market Visit invites visitors to uncover the art of crafting these beloved Chinese delicacies.
In this small-group class, you will learn to make baozi from scratch, guided by a local expert. The experience begins with a visit to a spice market, where travelers can explore the diverse array of ingredients used in baozi preparation.
Back in the classroom, aspiring chefs will receive all necessary food items, recipes, and refreshments, including tea and beer. The menu features steamed buns, with vegetarian-friendly options available.
The intimate setting ensures personalized attention throughout the hands-on cooking session. Upon completion, participants return to the starting point in Lianhu District, near the SAJINQIAO Metro Stop.
With a maximum group size of 15, this class offers an authentic taste of Xian’s culinary traditions.
Read our full review: Half-Day Xian Steamed Buns(Baozi) Cooking Class With Market Visit Review
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Xian Cultural Tour With Shadow Puppet and Pottery Making Class
Enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Xi’an on this guided tour that showcases the city’s time-honored traditions.
You’ll start by exploring significant sites like the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and the Xi’an Museum, learning about the city’s storied past. Next, you’ll enjoy a shadow puppet performance, a captivating art form that dates back thousands of years.
Then, you’ll try your hand at pottery making, shaping and decorating your own piece under the guidance of a skilled instructor.
Fueling your cultural exploration is a delicious dumpling lunch, included in the tour price.
Throughout the day, you’ll have the convenience of private transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as an English-speaking guide to provide insights.
With entrance fees covered and no need to worry about logistics, you can simply learn about the rich traditions that have defined Xi’an for centuries.
Read our full review: Xian Cultural Tour With Shadow Puppet and Pottery Making Class Review
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Private 2-Day Chengdu Tour From Xian With First Class Bullet Train Experience
Take the bullet train from Xi’an to Chengdu for a private 2-day tour showcasing the highlights of the Panda Capital. Priced from $538 per person, this first-class experience includes round-trip transportation, hotel stays, and a local guide to lead you through the city’s top attractions.
Start your journey with hotel pickup at 6 AM, then settle into the comfort of the bullet train for a high-speed ride to Chengdu. Upon arrival, dive into the city’s vibrant culture, visiting iconic landmarks and indulging in authentic Sichuan cuisine for lunch.
Day two focuses on the beloved giant pandas, with a visit to the Chengdu Panda Research Base to observe these gentle creatures up close. With free cancellation available up to 3 days prior, this private tour offers a convenient and personalized way to explore Chengdu from Xi’an.
Read our full review: Private 2-Day Chengdu Tour From Xian With First Class Bullet Train Experience Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Classes Suitable for Vegetarians or Those With Dietary Restrictions?
Many of the classes in Xian accommodate vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions, offering alternative meal options. It’s best to inquire about the specific class or workshop’s flexibility in catering to various dietary needs.
Do the Classes Offer Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?
Many classes offer discounts for students and seniors. Instructors are generally accommodating of dietary restrictions, so vegetarians and those with other dietary needs can participate. It’s best to inquire about any special pricing or accommodations when signing up.
Can the Classes Be Customized to Accommodate Personal Preferences or Skill Levels?
Many workshops and classes allow customization to accommodate individual preferences and skill levels. Instructors are often happy to tailor the content and pace to suit students’ needs, ensuring a personalized learning experience.
Are There Any Age or Physical Fitness Requirements for the Classes?
The workshops and classes generally don’t have strict age or physical fitness requirements, allowing participants of various backgrounds to join. Many offer personalized guidance to accommodate individual needs and skill levels.
Are the Classes Available in Languages Other Than Chinese?
The classes typically offer instruction in English and other foreign languages, accommodating international visitors. However, it’s best to check with each workshop or class provider to confirm the available language options.
The Sum Up
Xian offers a wide range of workshops and classes that allow visitors to enjoy the city’s rich cultural heritage. From learning to make traditional dumplings and noodles to exploring the art of calligraphy and paper cutting, there’s something for all. These experiences provide a unique opportunity to connect with the local community and gain a deeper understanding of Xian’s vibrant traditions.