In the year 1369, during the second year of the Ming Dynasty's Hongwu reign, the former capital of the Tang Dynasty, Chang'an, lost its former imperial grandeur and was renamed Xi'an, becoming a key ancient city along the Silk Road in Northwest China. Although its status had declined, as the capital of thirteen dynasties, Chang'an retained its importance due to its geographical location, agricultural resources, and cultural significance, maintaining a pivotal role in the northwest region of China.

At this time, the remnants of the Yuan Dynasty were still resisting the Ming regime in the northwest. To consolidate the region, Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang dispatched his second son, Zhu Shuang, as the Prince of Qin to guard Xi'an. Zhu Shuang built a magnificent castle in the area now known as Xincheng Square, called the Prince of Qin’s Residence, marking the beginning of Xi'an's critical role in defending Northwest China.

As Xi'an's strategic importance grew, in 1374 (the seventh year of Hongwu), military officials like Geng Bingwen, Shaanxi Provincial Deputy Yang Siyi, and Commander Pu Ying jointly proposed to Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang to expand Xi'an’s city walls. This marked the creation of the ancient city of Xi'an.

Regardless of where visitors come from, they are inevitably drawn to the city’s imposing rectangular walls. The massive walls, gray bricks, and majestic gates are awe-inspiring. Among them, Yongning Gate, the south gate of Xi'an, stands out as the grandest, towering gate in China’s northwest. Known as the "Great Tang Welcoming Gate," Yongning Gate leaves visitors speechless with its magnificence.

The robust city wall, weathered by centuries, remains a steadfast guardian, protecting the city's inhabitants through time. If you're interested in Xi'an city, please feel free to contact us for more.

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A Brief History of Xi'an’s City Wall

Xi'an’s city wall is the largest and most well-preserved Ming and Qing-era city wall in China. It holds great significance for the study of ancient urban construction, defense systems, and heritage conservation.

Early in the 20th century, debates about whether to preserve or demolish the city walls emerged in many Chinese cities. By the 1950s, large-scale city wall demolitions swept across the country. While many cities removed their walls, Xi'an’s walls managed to survive. The reasons for this preservation, whether by chance or design, are worth exploring.

Following the fall of the Tang Dynasty, the grandeur of Chang’an suffered repeated devastation. During the Five Dynasties period, military official Han Jian rebuilt the city, reducing it to only the imperial city’s core, forming what later became known as the New City. Over time, the structure and name of the city changed repeatedly under various dynasties—such as Later Tang, Northern Song, Jin, and Yuan—while retaining its foundational layout.

In 1369 (the second year of the Hongwu reign), Ming general Xu Da captured the Yuan dynasty’s Fengyuan Road and renamed it Xi’an Prefecture. Recognizing its political and military importance, the Ming government expanded the city eastward in 1371 by 1,435 meters and northward in 1374 by 864 meters. The completed city wall in 1378 had a circumference of 13.73 kilometers. During the Qianlong era (1781–1784), Shaanxi governor Bi Yuan further strengthened the walls and dredged the moat, solidifying the defense system we see today.

Entering Through Yongning Gate:

Becoming Part of Xi'anYongning Gate, the southern gate of Xi'an’s city wall, is its most iconic entrance. Built in 1378, it has survived wars and reconstructions through the Ming, Qing, and Republican eras. Yongning Gate still retains its unique “three-layered gate and tower” design.

City Wall Information (Tickets and Location)

1.Ticket Prices:

a.  Adult ticket: 54 RMB per person

2.Main Entrances:

b.  The wall is accessible through the East, South, West, and North gates, as well as Hanguang Gate and Zhongshan Gate.

c.  After 6 PM, entry is limited to the South Gate.

Ways to Explore the Xi’an City Wall

Here are four main ways to enjoy the city wall:

● (1) 1-Hour Quick TourActivities:Take iconic photos near Yongning Gate, including the watchtower, suspension bridge, and fortified structures.

○ Ride an electric cart around the entire wall.

○ Electric Cart Ticket Prices: 80 RMB for a full circle, 20 RMB per stop.

● (2) 3-Hour Leisure TourActivities:Rent a bicycle and ride around the wall.

○ Bicycle Rental:Single bike: 45 RMB for three hours

■ Tandem bike: 90 RMB for three hours

● (3) Half-Day In-Depth TourActivities:Walk the entire wall (3–4 hours).

○ Combine walking and biking for a customized experience.

● (4) Night Tour of the WallNight tours are especially popular, with stunning views of illuminated walls and towers.

Must-Do Activities on the City Wall

1.  Photograph in Hanfu (Traditional Chinese Clothing)

Taking photos in Hanfu has become a must for visitors. The combination of flowing traditional garments and ancient walls creates a magical time-travel aesthetic.

2.  Biking

Riding a bike along the wall is one of the most recommended activities. A full loop takes about 40–60 minutes at a steady pace.

3.  Strolling

Walking offers a slower, more reflective way to appreciate the historical atmosphere of the city wall.

4.  Visiting the Museum

Stop by the Hanguang Gate Museum to see archaeological remnants of Tang, Song, Ming, and Qing city walls.

Recommended Routes

Here are four professional routes to explore the city wall:

Route 1: Yongning Gate → Hanguang Gate → Hanguang Gate Museum

Time: 40 minutes (walking)

Route 2: Yongning Gate → East Gate → Zhongshan Gate

Time: 60 minutes (walking)

Highlights: Panoramic views of landmarks like the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Bell Tower, and Beilin Museum.

Route 3: Yongning Gate → Hanguang Gate → West Gate → North Gate

Time: 90 minutes (walking) or 25 minutes (cycling)

Route 4: Anyuan Gate → Zhongshan Gate

Time: 30 minutes (walking)

Tips for Visiting the City Wall

Restroom Availability:

Toilets are more common on the southern section but scarce in the east and north. Use facilities when you find them.

Safety:

Some sections of the wall are uneven due to age. Take caution while biking or walking.

Bike Rental Overtime Charges:

Single bike: 5 RMB per 10 minutes overtime

Tandem bike: 10 RMB per 10 minutes overtime

By following these tips and routes, you can immerse yourself in the grandeur of Xi’an’s city wall, experiencing its History and Culture to the fullest.