China’s vast landscape is shaped by its dynasties — each leaving behind monuments to power, culture, and belief. Few are as recognisable as the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an, one of the most remarkable archaeological finds of the 20th century. But beyond the Qin emperor’s grand vision lies a quieter, less-visited corner of history: the Western Xia Tombs in Ningxia, recently inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This journey follows a thread between these two imperial legacies, set against a backdrop of desert valleys, mountain ranges, and emerging wine country.
Arrive in the ancient capital of Xi’an, once the eastern terminus of the Silk Road. After a late-night transfer, settle into your hotel and prepare for the journey ahead — one that stretches westward into the lesser-known corners of Chinese history.
Take the high-speed train north to Yinchuan (~3.5 hours), capital of the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, nestled between the Helan Mountains and the Yellow River. Begin the afternoon at the Helan Mountain Rock Art Site, where ancient petroglyphs etched into the cliff faces speak to the early civilisations that once thrived in this region. Continue to the Han Meilin Art Museum, a striking space showcasing contemporary interpretations of traditional Chinese symbolism, including homages to the Western Xia.
Spend the morning at the Western Xia Tombs, an imperial necropolis built by the rulers of the 11th-century Tangut kingdom. Set against the Helan Mountains, these earth-formed tombs are a rare surviving testimony to a dynasty that once stood shoulder to shoulder with the Song and Liao. Although time and erosion have softened their outlines, ongoing conservation and their new UNESCO status bring fresh attention to this overlooked chapter of Chinese history.
In the afternoon, turn from stone to soil as you visit two of Ningxia’s acclaimed wineries. Thanks to high-altitude sunshine and mineral-rich soil, the region has quietly become one of China’s top wine-producing areas. Enjoy private tastings and learn about the local terroir, which is now drawing global recognition.
Travel south through the desert plains to Zhongwei, stopping at Xige Estate for a vineyard lunch. Follow the Yellow River westward to the 108 Pagodas, an enigmatic cliffside arrangement of white stupas overlooking the water. This peaceful site offers both spiritual reflection and stunning views, especially as the late afternoon light sweeps across the riverbend. Arrive in the evening at Shapotou and check into the Yellow River Commune, a unique collective tucked into the dunes.
Today’s adventure takes you off the beaten track. Drive along China’s photogenic Route 66, a remote stretch of road surrounded by sand and scrubland, toward Beichangtan village. From here, head into the foothills for a visit to Damaidi, where thousands of ancient rock carvings — some believed to be over 3,000 years old — are preserved in the cliff faces. Return to the lodge for a relaxed evening.
Travel back to Xi’an by bullet train (~4 hours). In the afternoon, explore the Ancient City Walls, which still encircle the old town with watchtowers and ramparts. Walk or cycle along the top for panoramic views. Later, visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a Tang Dynasty landmark that once housed Buddhist scriptures brought from India by monk Xuanzang.
No trip to Xi’an is complete without a visit to the Terracotta Warriors, a UNESCO site that needs little introduction. Discovered in 1974, this subterranean army of soldiers, horses, and chariots stands in silent formation around the mausoleum of Emperor Qin Shi Huang. The scale and detail remain staggering — a powerful display of imperial ambition and afterlife beliefs.
Later, explore Datang Everbright City, a pedestrian street brought to life with colourful lights, street performances, and Tang Dynasty-inspired architecture. It’s a modern tribute to Xi’an’s golden age, where history and entertainment blend seamlessly to conclude your journey.
From the grandeur of Xi’an’s Terracotta Army to the understated legacy of the Western Xia in Ningxia, this trip reveals China’s layers — dynasties celebrated, forgotten, and rediscovered. While one tomb commands global attention and the other is just beginning to regain its place in history, both invite reflection on the power of memory, architecture, and the desert’s quiet hold on the past.
