As someone who’s spent years reading about Tang Dynasty history, my 3-day Xi’an trip from Shanghai by train was less a vacation and more a chance to step into the past—and guide Autumn, the travel company’s thoughtful planning, and driver Mr. Zhang made that transition seamless and unforgettable.

The journey started smoothly: Mr. Zhang was waiting at Xi’an Railway Station when our train pulled in, his sign easy to spot amid the crowd. He loaded our luggage into his clean, well-maintained car without a word, and the ride to our hotel was quiet and steady—no unnecessary chatter, just efficient service. That’s all we saw of him, but his prompt, reliable pick-up set a professional tone for the entire trip.

Autumn’s expertise was the heart of the experience. She didn’t just lead us from the Ancient City Wall to the Terracotta Warriors—she wove stories into every step, turning stone and clay into living history. At the Ancient City Wall, instead of just pointing out its length, she described how soldiers patrolled it during the Ming Dynasty, the way watchtowers communicated threats, and even the texture of the bricks. At the Terracotta Warriors, her knowledge was staggering: she pointed out subtle differences in the warriors’ hairstyles (indicating rank) and explained the controversy around whether to excavate more pits, answering my endless questions with depth and enthusiasm. She never rushed, letting me linger at the museum’s exhibits to study ancient weapons and pottery shards, and adjusted our pace so I never felt rushed.

The company’s itinerary balance was perfect. They mixed iconic sites with quieter gems: the Xi’an Museum, which I might have skipped on my own, became a highlight thanks to Autumn’s guidance—she showed me a Tang Dynasty porcelain vase with a crack that told a story of its journey from a royal palace to the museum’s collection. Even the more touristy spots felt intentional: at the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, she led us to a quiet corner where we could watch monks walk in procession, away from the crowds.

What impressed me most was how the company handled logistics without fanfare. Meals were well-timed: the Dumpling Banquet after the Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Show felt like a natural end to a day of Tang culture. Even the Muslim Quarter visit was thoughtful—she took us in the late afternoon, before the evening rush, and pointed out family-run stalls that served authentic lamb buns and spicy noodles, not just tourist fare.

Autumn’s style was warm but unassuming. She didn’t carry fancy brochures or hand out gifts—she carried knowledge, and she shared it generously. By the end of the trip, I didn’t just know about Xi’an’s history—I felt it. The company’s efficiency, Mr. Zhang’s reliability, and most of all, Autumn’s passion turned a 3-day trip into a lifelong memory.

Reviewed to: Ancient Capitals Await: 3-Day Xian Tour From Shanghai by Train