Tianshui Day Tour from Xi’an: Maijishan Grottoes & Fuxi Temple
Tour Overview
Tianshui stands as one of the cradles of Chinese civilization. This journey will take you on the high-speed train from Xi'an to Tianshui for a private day. At Maijishan, walk the cliff-side passages out to the Buddhist caves and clay figures — work that started over 1,500 years ago and continued across several dynasties.
Later go into town to Fuxi Temple: old halls, massive cypresses, and the stories around Fuxi and his place in Chinese myth and tradition.
It's a nice split — grotto art up on the cliff in the morning, temple heritage in the city after.
Travel Destination: Tianshui
Suitable for: History Lovers, Culture Enthusiasts, Buddhist Art Lovers
Tour type: Private
Highlights of this tour
Admire ancient Buddhist art at Maijishan Grottoes. Enjoy panoramic views and walk along the narrow cliffside path for a closer look at its delicate clay sculptures that have survived for more than 1,500 years.
Stroll through traditional halls and ancient cypress trees at Fuxi Temple and listen to fascinating stories about the legendary ancestor Fuxi to discover the origins of Chinese civilization.
Day-by-day Itinerary
- Day 1: Xi’an to Tianshui by High-speed TrainAdmire Buddhist Grottoes and Learn About the Origin of Chinese Civilization
At approximately 6:00 am, your driver will pick you up from your Xi'an downtown hotel and transport you to Xi'an North Railway Station for the high-speed train to Tianshui. The local guide will warmly meet you at Tianshui South Train Station and accompany you to the Maiji Grottoes.
Originally carved during the Later Qin Dynasty (384 - 417), Maijishan Grottoes is one of the Four Greatest Grottoes in China known for its exquisite clay sculptures. As the grottoes are carved into cliffs, you’ll walk along the cliffside paths to get a closer look at the sculptures. Before ascending, catch panoramic views from the observation deck first.
Marvel at the Intricate Buddhist Sculptures closely at Maijishan Grottoes Tips: Flash photography and touching the statues are strictly prohibited inside the caves. Be sure to use the toilet in advance, as there are no restrooms along the cliffside path.
Head to Fuxi Temple after lunch, a Ming-dynasty temple dedicated to Fuxi, the legendary ancestor of Chinese civilization. As you walk along the central axis with your guide, you'll explore the well-preserved Xiantian Hall, Bell and Drum Towers, Stele Corridor, and the ancient cypress grove, while your guide shares the stories behind them.
Traditional Chinese temple gate at Fuxi Temple At the end of the tour, your driver will transfer you to the railway stationfor the return train to Xi'an. Upon arrival, meet your Xi’an driver and go back to your hotel for a rest.
Tour Price ($=USD)
From $289 P.P, which is based on a private tour for 2 people. The price varies depending on the activity, number of people, travel date, and selected hotel.
