Inside China: Westward, a Multi-Generational Family Journey

Sending a Terracotta Warrior home (Xi’an)

After a private early tour of the Terracotta Warriors Museum, continue to a nearby workshop where artisans recreate warriors using the same traditional techniques used for the ancient army. Children especially enjoy choosing from different sizes and military ranks before arranging for the piece to be carefully packed and shipped home—a memorable souvenir that brings a small piece of China’s ancient history back with you.

Helicopter & sedan chair rides in Zhangjiajie

Zhangjiajie’s towering sandstone pillars—the inspiration for the floating mountains in Avatar—rise dramatically from misty valleys. Families can take in the surreal landscape from above on a short helicopter flight, then experience the mountain paths the traditional way as sedan chair bearers carry visitors up steep stone steps—an adventure that feels straight out of a storybook.

Pandas & surprise panda dessert at The Upper House, Chengdu

At the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, watch pandas tumble, snack, and nap among bamboo groves in the cool morning air—a highlight for travelers of all ages.

Later, back at the modern elegance of The Upper House, a panda-shaped dessert waiting in your room makes for a playful and memorable way to end the day.

From Sichuan Hotpot to Naxi Claypot

Food becomes part of the adventure while traveling across western China. In Sichuan, families gather around bubbling hotpot broths where everyone cooks meats, vegetables, and noodles together, while in Lijiang, Naxi claypot cuisine offers a comforting contrast with mountain vegetables, herbs, and regional meats such as yak slowly simmered in earthenware pots.

Staying at Amandayan above Lijiang Old Town

High above the tiled rooftops of UNESCO-listed Lijiang Old Town, Amandayan offers a serene vantage point over lantern-lit streets and distant mountains. Mornings can begin in the hotel’s peaceful courtyards with a private Tai Chi class led by a local master—a calm and memorable way for families to experience one of China’s enduring traditions together.

From the hotel, stone steps lead directly into the old town, where lively night markets, music, and street snacks fill the historic lanes each evening.

A cliffside Tibetan Buddhist temple near Lijiang

Perched dramatically on the mountainside above the valley, a Tibetan Buddhist temple is surrounded by colorful prayer flags and sweeping alpine views. Visiting offers a quiet moment to take in the scenery while introducing children to the spiritual traditions of the region.

Xi’an

• De Fa Chang Dumpling Restaurant: A legendary Xi’an institution famous for its elaborate dumpling banquets, where dozens of dumplings arrive in playful shapes and fillings. It’s a wonderful introduction to local cuisine and especially fun for families.

• Tang Dynasty Palace: This restaurant pairs traditional Shaanxi cuisine with a lively Tang dynasty music and dance performance. The theatrical setting makes dinner feel like a cultural show as much as a meal.

• First Noodle Under the Sun (天下第一面): Known for its dramatic “biang biang” noodles, this restaurant serves thick hand-pulled noodles topped with rich sauces and vegetables. Watching the noodle-making process is almost as entertaining as eating them.

• Yongxingfang food street: A vibrant food street where travelers can sample many of Xi’an’s classic snacks in one place, from roujiamo (Chinese-style burgers) to persimmon cakes. It’s perfect for families who want to try a little bit of everything.

• Changan Da Pai Dang: A lively restaurant recreating the atmosphere of Tang-dynasty Chang’an with theatrical décor and traditional dishes. The festive environment makes it a memorable dinner stop.

Zhangjiajie

• No.1 Chef Restaurant: A popular local spot serving bold Hunan cuisine, including spicy stir-fries and smoked pork dishes. The hearty flavors are especially satisfying after a long day exploring the mountains.

• Farmer’s Kitchen (Nongjia Cai): These family-run countryside restaurants serve rustic dishes made with locally grown vegetables and mountain ingredients. Claypot dishes and stir-fried greens are simple yet deeply flavorful.

• Muslim Restaurant (near the National Park): A reliable choice for comforting noodle dishes, lamb skewers, and halal specialties. The casual setting makes it an easy stop for families.

• Zhangjiajie Impression Restaurant: Known for traditional Hunan-style cooking with generous portions and bold flavors. Signature dishes include braised pork and spicy river fish.

• Local Hot Pot restaurants: Several casual hotpot spots around the city offer warming broths perfect for cooler mountain evenings. Cooking ingredients together at the table makes for a lively and interactive meal.

Chengdu

• Wide & narrow alleys (Kuanzhai Alley): This lively historic district is packed with tea houses, street snacks, and casual restaurants. It’s a wonderful place to wander and sample local specialties while soaking up Chengdu’s relaxed atmosphere.

• Tivano — The Upper House: For a change of cuisine, Tivano offers refined Italian dining inside The Upper House. Everything from the pasta to the desserts is beautifully prepared, and an indoor playroom beside the dining area makes it particularly convenient for families.

• Shu Jiu Xiang Hotpot: One of Chengdu’s most beloved hotpot restaurants, known for its rich and aromatic mala broth. The lively dining experience is a highlight for food lovers visiting the city.

• Chen Mapo Tofu: This historic restaurant is credited with popularizing the famous Sichuan dish mapo tofu. The spicy, silky tofu dish is a must-try when visiting Chengdu.

• Yu’s Family Kitchen: A celebrated private dining experience offering beautifully plated interpretations of classic Sichuan cuisine. Reservations are limited, making it a memorable culinary highlight.

Lijiang

• Amandayan Chinese Restaurant: Set within the tranquil surroundings of Amandayan, the hotel’s restaurant offers refined regional cuisine in a peaceful courtyard overlooking the mountains and rooftops of Lijiang Old Town. Breakfast here is a highlight, with seasonal dishes and local specialties such as yak bacon served alongside fresh fruit, noodles, and warm pastries.

• Wanhong Pavilion: Located in a traditional courtyard house, this restaurant focuses on authentic Naxi cuisine. The elegant yet relaxed setting highlights local ingredients and regional cooking traditions.

• V’Sherry Restaurant (Mu’s Mansion): Situated inside the historic Mu’s Mansion complex, this restaurant showcases modern Yunnan cuisine made with organic and locally sourced ingredients. The menu blends culinary traditions from ethnic minority groups such as the Naxi and Dai.

• N’s Kitchen (Ancient Town branch): A charming café in Lijiang Old Town serving Western favorites such as burgers, pasta, and pizza. It’s a comfortable option for families looking for a familiar meal.

• Village Café: A casual and welcoming café offering garden salads, sandwiches, and popular cheese pizza. It’s a great stop for a relaxed lunch while exploring the winding streets of the old town.