Xi'an City Wall
One of the largest and best-preserved ancient city walls still in existence in China
The Xi’an Ancient City Wall has a history of over 1,400 years. It is one of the largest and best-preserved ancient city walls in China. Visitors can bike or walk along the wall, experiencing the perspective of ancient city defenders. For those interested in Chinese history, the Xi’an City Wall is an important site to learn about ancient urban defense systems and cultural heritage. The wall also frequently hosts various cultural activities and exhibitions, providing an immersive experience of traditional Chinese culture.
Yongning Gate is the southern gate of the Xian City Wall and is the most significant gate in the city. It is the oldest among the city’s four main gates. In June 1998, after Bill Clinton became President, he chose Xi’an as his first stop during his visit to China. A grand ceremonial welcome was held at Yongning Gate, where Clinton remarked to the Chinese officials, “I’ve attended many welcome ceremonies around the world, but tonight, under the ancient city wall, this ceremony with such historical significance is something I will never forget.” Besides Clinton, numerous foreign leaders, including French President Sarkozy and Indian Prime Minister Modi, have also chosen Xi’an as their first stop upon entering China.
Standing on the city wall, visitors can take in the magnificent views of this ancient city. The wall is surrounded by a wide, deep moat that once served as an important defense but now adds to the city’s charm. There are bike rental stations on the wall, making cycling a unique way to explore it. Tourists can enjoy the scenery on both sides as they ride. At night, the wall is beautifully illuminated, especially the night view of the South Gate (Yongning Gate), which adds a touch of mystery and romance to the ancient city.
Touring the Xi’an Defensive Wall, visitors can experience a wealth of cultural activities and historical performances. For example, at the Yongning Gate (South Gate), visitors can watch the Samurai Opening Ceremony Performance “Welcome with Golden Armor” and the Samurai Changing of the Guard Ceremony Performance “Protector of the Imperial City”. In addition, it is possible to watch the grand antique welcome into the city performance in the evening, for which an additional ticket is required. The scenic area also showcases the ruins of the Hanguang Gate from the Sui and Tang dynasties. Through models and sand tablets, visitors can get a glimpse of the grandeur and splendor of the Sui and Tang dynasties.
Table of Contents
Q&A About the Xi'an City Wall
- When was the City Wall of Xi’an built?
The Xian Fortress Wall was originally built in 582 AD and is a heritage from the Sui, Tang, and Ming dynasties. The version seen today dates back to the Ming dynasty, starting construction in 1370 and completed eight years later. The wall stands 12 meters high, with a width of 12-14 meters at the top and 15-18 meters at the base. - Why was the Xian Ancient City Wall built?
Before the establishment of the Ming Dynasty, a strategist advised Zhu Yuanzhang (the founding emperor of the Ming Dynasty) to “build high walls, store grain, and delay claiming kingship.” Zhu adopted this advice. During this period, there was a strong trend of city construction in the Ming Dynasty, and many of the existing city walls in various cities across China were built during this time.
When constructing the city wall, each segment had to be inspected by officials before it could be used. During the inspection, officials would command soldiers to shoot arrows at the wall. If the arrowheads penetrated the wall, it was deemed unqualified.
Popular Restaurants Near Xi'an City Wall
Enjoying authentic Xi’an cuisine during your travel in Xi’an.
Zui Chang'an (Bell Tower Flagship Store) 醉长安(钟楼旗舰店)
- The restaurant has a charming, old-world atmosphere with decor inspired by the Tang Dynasty, giving it a beautifully retro and elegant vibe! The entrance features a traditional Chinese pavilion, adding to its classic flair.
Braised Pork Knuckle
The pork knuckle is super tender and rich but not greasy. It sits on a bed of rice. When you tear into it, the delicious broth mixes with the skin and meat, and it’s amazing with the rice and little potatoes!
Sour Vinegar Squirrel Fish
The fish is huge and fried to a golden crisp. The meat is fresh, and it’s drizzled with a sweet and sour sauce that’s perfectly balanced—just the right amount of tangy and sweet.
Handmade Cold Noodles
These noodles come with shredded cucumber, carrot, and ham mixed in spicy chili sauce. They’re covered in sauce, making them chewy and refreshing!Address:
No. 7, Zhuba City (next to Meihua Lizi Hotel)
竹笆市7号（美豪丽致酒店旁）
Hours:
Monday to Friday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM; Saturday and Sunday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Average Spend:
77 CNY (approx. $11 USD) per person
Practical Travel Tips
- It’s best to wear flat shoes when exploring the city wall since you’ll mostly be walking and biking.
- There are bike rental stations at all four gates (east, west, south, north). The deposit is 100 CNY (about $14 USD), and you’ll get a pickup slip and a deposit receipt. After handing the pickup slip to the staff, you can ride. When you return the bike, the staff will note the return time on the deposit receipt, which you’ll need to get your deposit back.
- Even though the bike tires are thick, the wall isn’t a smooth surface, so it can be a bit bumpy. It’s a good idea to bring cycling gloves to avoid discomfort in your palms.
- I wouldn’t recommend walking the whole way; it takes too much time. Riding will also take a while, but the scenery is beautiful, especially with the stunning sunset. Just make sure to check the bike for any issues before you start riding—if there’s a problem, switch it out immediately.
- For the most time-efficient and enjoyable route, I recommend: Yongning Gate(永宁门) → City Wall at Yongning Gate(永宁门城墙) → View the Bell Tower from the wall(城墙眺望钟楼) → View Zhuque Street from Zhuque Gate(朱雀门眺望朱雀大街) → Return down the wall at Hanguang Gate(回含光门下城墙).
Hours and Fees
Hours
- Daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Admission
- 54 CNY (about $7.50 USD) per person
- Children under 1.2 meters and seniors over 65 years old enter for free.
How to Get to Xi'an City Wall
By Bus
- You can take the following bus lines to reach the South Gate (Yongning Gate) of the Xi’an City Wall: 6, 11, 12, 16, 23, 26, 29, 31, 35, 40, 46, 184, 187, 193, 203, and 204.
By Subway
- Take Metro Line 2 to Yongningmen Station(永宁门站), and get off at Exit D2 (northeast exit). From there, it’s just a short walk to the Yongning Gate of the Xi’an City Wall.
