Xi'an City Wall, one of the largest and best-preserved ancient city walls in China, is one of the first batch of national key cultural relics protection units and national 5A level tourist attractions, and is also the only city wall building in the first batch of national key cultural relics protection units. It stands as a testament to the city's rich history and military significance. 

Xi'an City Wall

When Was It Built?

• The Xi'an City Wall was built in 1370 AD and constructed during the Ming Dynasty, with a history of more than 600 years. Surrounding the ancient city of Xi'an, the city wall symbolizes the outstanding achievement of the ancient city defense system and represents the essence of ancient Chinese architectural art.
• The Xi'an City Wall is not only a model of ancient Chinese urban planning and defense architecture, it was also inscribed on China's World Heritage Tentative List in 2018. The City Wall has witnessed the transformation of Xi'an from ancient Chang'an to a modernized city.

How The Wall Configure?

The City Wall forms a rectangle around Xi'an's old city, stretching 13.7 kilometers in length. It stands 12 meters tall and is 15-18 meters wide at the top, tapering to 15-18 meters at the base. The wall features 98 ramparts, each designed to house soldiers and ammunition. Four main gates (North, South, East, and West) and several smaller gates provide access to the inner city

Gates of Xi'an City Wall

The four main gates of the Xi'an City Wall are the East Gate (Changle Gate), the South Gate (Yongning Gate), the West Gate (Anding Gate) and the North Gate (Anyuan Gate), each of which has unique historical significance and cultural connotation, and all of which bear witness to Xi'an's glorious history and rich cultural heritage.

East Gate (Changle Gate)
Changle Gate, whose “Changle” means “long-lasting happiness”, was the gateway to the east of Chang'an in ancient times, connecting the cultural and commercial routes to the east. It is close to historical sites such as Mount Li and Huaqing Pond, and is the starting point for access to eastern attractions.

South Gate (Yongning Gate)
Yongning Gate, meaning “eternal peace”, is the most famous gate of the Xi'an City Wall and the main gate of the ancient city. Once the site of emperors' patrols and celebrations, Yongning Gate is now the most frequently visited entrance to the wall by tourists, with a spectacular nighttime light show.

West Gate (Anding Gate)
Anding Gate, meaning “stability and peace”, was an important gateway to the Silk Road, through which caravans and armies frequently passed in history. The Anding Gate connects the Western Regions with Chang'an. Nearby is the Datang Western Market Museum, which showcases the prosperous history of the Silk Road.

North Gate (Anyuan Gate)
Anyuan Gate means “guarding the far side” and is the northern gate of the Xi'an City Wall, which is mainly responsible for defense against foreign invasion from the north. This gate is close to the Daming Palace National Heritage Park and is the entrance to explore the architecture of the Tang Dynasty Imperial Palace.

Fun Facts of Xi'an City Wall

• Numbering on the bricks of the city wall

Each brick of the Xi'an City Wall has a unique number on it, which was engraved by Ming Dynasty craftsmen during the firing process. The purpose of the numbering is to ensure that the quality of the bricks can be traced, so that if a particular brick develops a problem after it has been constructed, recourse can be had to the specific artisan responsible. Today, visitors can still see these numbers on some of the bricks on the City Wall and feel the rigor and responsibility of ancient craftsmanship.

• Construction Techniques

The wall's construction involved some unique methods. The foundation was built using a mixture of earth, quick lime, and glutinous rice extract, creating an incredibly strong and durable base. This foundation was then covered with layers of bricks for additional strength and protection. The use of glutinous rice in construction was a common practice in ancient China, known for its adhesive properties and resistance to weathering.

There are more interesting facts about the Xi'an City Wall that are little known. You can join our Xi'an guided tour, which we have developed for you, to not only experience the majesty of the Xi'an City Wall, but also learn more interesting historical facts and stories about the wall through our guide's in-depth introduction of the wall's architectural details and vivid history. These facts reveal the historical details and unique design concepts that make the Xi'an City Wall a masterpiece of ancient architecture and urban planning.

What You Can See in Xi'an City Wall

• Moat

It is an important defense facility of the Xi'an City Wall, forming a natural barrier around the wall. It not only has the function of blocking the enemy's attack, but also prevents the enemy from using tools to attack the city directly. The depth and width of the moat are well designed and the water surface is vast, adding much defense to the ancient city wall. Nowadays, both sides of the moat are planted with trees and flowers, making it a good place for tourists to take a leisure walk.

Moat

• Drawbridges

Drawbridges are important facilities connecting the city wall with the moat and are usually set up at the entrance of the city. The drawbridges of Xi'an city wall is uniquely designed with timber and iron ropes as the main materials, which can withstand the passage of large-scale armies. In wartime, the drawbridges could be quickly raised to cut off the enemy's attack channel and protect the safety of the city wall. Nowadays, the drawbridges are not only an important part of the city wall, but also a popular spot for tourists to take photos of their memories. 

• Arrow Towers

Positioned above each of the four main gates, these towers were essential for defense. They feature numerous arrow slits, allowing defenders to fire arrows or later, guns, at approaching enemies while remaining protected. The arrow towers work in conjunction with the gate towers and main towers to form a complex defensive system at each entrance. Arrow Towers are usually higher than the City Wall, allowing the defending soldiers to occupy a more favorable position in battles. Visitors can climb up the Arrow Towers to experience the life of the ancient soldiers defending the city and enjoy a magnificent view of the city.

• Main Towers

The main towers on the city wall, usually located above the city gate, is the center of command and dispatch. The main towers of the Xi'an City Wall was beautifully designed to accommodate commanders and soldiers. During wartime, the main towers were the center of command and dispatch, where information was transmitted and tactics were formulated. Nowadays, the Main Towers have become an important place to display the history and culture of the Xi'an City Wall, where visitors can learn about ancient military strategies and defense systems.

• Corner Towers (Turrets)

Corner towers are located at the four corners of the City Wall and are a special kind of defense building. Corner towers not only have the function of observing the enemy, but also strengthen the overall defense capability of the city wall. The corner towers of the Xi'an City Wall are uniquely designed, usually presenting a square or octagonal shape, with high visibility and defense power. Visitors can climb up the corner towers to enjoy a beautiful 360-degree view and learn about the strategies and defense methods of ancient wars.

• Ancient Weaponry Displays

Along the wall, you'll find displays of ancient Chinese weapons, including replicas of catapults, crossbows, and early cannons. These exhibits provide insight into the military technology of ancient China and how the wall was defended.

• Battlements

Battlements are openings in the Xi'an City Wall, usually holes for soldiers to shoot and observe the enemy. The battlements are scientifically designed to effectively protect soldiers and reduce the chances of enemy attacks. On the city wall, visitors can see the battlements and understand the meticulousness of ancient military defense.

• Panoramic Views

From atop the wall, visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Xi'an. On one side, you'll see the well-preserved old city with its traditional architecture, while on the other, the modern skyline of Xi'an stretches into the distance. This juxtaposition of old and new offers a unique perspective on the city's development.

• Landscaped Gardens

Along the base of the wall, both inside and outside, you'll find beautifully landscaped gardens. These green spaces feature traditional Chinese landscaping elements, including pavilions, ponds, and carefully manicured plants. They provide a peaceful contrast to the imposing military structure of the wall itself and offer pleasant areas for relaxation and photography.

Price and Opening Hours

Single entry ticket: 54 CNY per adult

Yongning Gate(South Gate)South Entrance, Yongning Gate(South Gate)North Entrance: 8:00-22:00

Anyuan Gate(North Gate)、Changle Gate(East Gate)、Anding Gate(West Gate): 8:00-20:00

Things To Do on Xi'an City Wall

• Cycling
  Visitors can rent bicycles at every four gates and ride around the city wall. It takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to ride around and you have 3 hours for cycling. Cycling on the city wall allows visitors to see the ancient city of Xi'an from different angles. This activity is popular among tourists as it allows them to relax as well as enjoy the scenery.

Note: Apart from the entry tickets and rental fee of bike, you are also required to pay a cash deposit of 100 RMB. Cycling over 3 hours will be charged extra, so pay attention to arrange time. 

Rental Station Opening Time: Yongning Gate: 08:00-22:00, other three gates: 08:15-18:00

Price: 45 RMB for a single bicycle, 90 RMB for a tandem bicycle (2-hour rental)

Ride on the City Wall

• Enjoy the night light show
  The Xi'an City Wall is decorated with colorful lights at night. The night light show on the Xi'an City Wall is an illumination and artistic display of the ancient city wall, which attracts a large number of tourists by presenting the historical charm and unique architectural style of the wall through a variety of lighting effects. The light show combines modern technology and traditional culture, using a variety of colors and dynamically changing lights to create a beautiful visual effect. The lights will change with the rhythm of the music, showing different themes and scenes, allowing visitors to feel the magnificence and mystery of the ancient city. 

         Price: Tickets for a night tour on the city wall usually cost the same as daytime entry tickets, that is 54 RMB.

         Time: Nighttime shows and activities usually last until 22:00 pm in view of the season and weather.

City Wall at Night

• Wonderful Performances

Dream of Chang'an - The Great Tang Welcoming Ceremony. It consists of two parts, the first part is the Great Welcoming Ceremony of the Tang Dynasty Show, and the second is the Multi-media City Wall Scenic Literary and Artistic Performance.

Time: 8:30 PM – 9:00 PM every Thursday to Sunday

Price: 260RMB/580RMB (including scenic area admission)

Warrior Sentry Patrol

Time: 11:00 AM, 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM

Price: free

Ceremony of Warrior Changing of Guard

Time: 10:00 AM, 3:00 PM

Price: free

Xi'an City Wall Travel Tips

• You can tour the entire wall on foot, which takes about 3 hours. It is suggested that each visitor can rent a bicycle, so that you can visit the entire wall in about 1 hour. At the four main gates, it is also possible to take a sightseeing bus around the city wall in about 50 minutes. Which of these ways of tour  is ultimately up to you. However, it should be noted that parts of the wall have uneven brick faces, which may feel clattered when riding a bicycle.
• There is no shelter on the Xi’an City Wall, so it is recommended that visitors who come to the City Wall in summer and have sun protection needs do a good job before arriving at the city wall, try to avoid the high temperature at noon, you’d better visit in the morning or late afternoon, which will increase the good experience of tourists.
• If time allows, experience the wall both during the day and at night for contrasting views. The scenery of the City Wall is different during the day and at night, the City Wall is suitable for taking photos and cycling during the day, and it is more suitable for enjoying the night scene at night, which is more quiet and gorgeous than the City Wall during the day.

Transportation Guide

To Yongning Gate:

Take Xi’an Metro Line 2 to Yongningmen Station, and get out from Exit A1 or D1, then you can reach the Xi’an City Wall directly.

Take the city bus 12, 184, 193, 208, 221, 600 or 603 to Nanmen Li (inside the south gate) stop.

Take the city bus 6, 11, 12, 16, 23, 26, 29, 31, 35, 40, 46, 184, 187, 193, 203, 204, 208, 215, 216, 221, 222, 258, 311, 402, 512, 600, 603, 605, 608, 609, 616, 701, 800, or Tourist Bus Line 7 to Nanmen Wai (outside the south gate) stop.

To Anyuan Gate:

Take the metro Line 2 to Anyuanmen Station, come out from the Exit B or C, and walk south for about 500 meters (547 yards) in 10 minutes to find the North Gate and Xi’an city wall.

Take city bus 6, 9, 26, 28, 33, 37, 182, 208, 229, 236, 511, 600, 601, 608, 609, 616, 618 or 703 to Beimen Li (inside the north gate) stop.

Take the bus 6, 104, 138, 206, 228, 229, 266, 608 or 719 to Beimen Wai (outside the north gate) stop.

To Changle Gate:

Take city bus 22, 29, 33, 45, 139, 188, 218, 235, 263, 527 or 709 to Dongmen Wai (outside the east gate) stop.

Take the bus 8, 15, 27, 29, 37, 43, 45, 47, 102, 182, 203, 218, 235, 252, 300, 602, 604, 612 or 622 to Dongmen Li (inside the east gate) stop.

To Anding Gate:

Take the city bus 4, 15, 23, 31, 43, 45, 201, 215, 221, 222, 252, 300, 407, 611, 612 or 622 to Ximen Li (inside the west gate)/Children’s Hospital stop.