Xian Ancient City Wall

Xian Attractions

	Introduction to Xian Ancient City Wall As a landmark of the ancient capital Xian and a hot tourist attraction to see, Xian Ancient City Wall attracts numerous tourists there for its grand construction, unique structure and historic values. It is one of the oldest and best preserved city walls in China. Xian Ancient City Wall was constructed during the reign of Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang in the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). The current city wall was actually the enlargement of the old wall which was initially built during the Tang Dynasty (618 - 907). Now with a height of 12 meters, 13.7 kilometers in length, 12-14 meters wide across the top, and 15-18 meters thick at the bottom, the Ancient City Wall boasts as the most complete city wall survived in China. As one of the largest ancient military defensive systems in the world, the Ancient City Wall has very complex design and structure. Built with earth, quick lime, and glutinous rice extract to be tamped together, the city wall was very firm and strong. Also enclosed with bricks and a deep and wide moat whose top was constructed a huge drawbridge, the City Wall has excellent features in protecting the city from outside enemies. There are flanking towers built every 120 meters on the wall and on each corner of the wall there are watchtowers and ramparts over the watchtowers. Xian Ancient City Wall has four gates, including the north, south, east and west gates. Each gate consists of three gate towers, including the drawbridge, the narrow tower, and the main tower. The south gate, which is called Yongning Gate, is the most magnificent one to admire. Ascending to the South Gate to get some fantastic views of the city, or renting a bicycle for cycling on the wall are very popular among tourists.

	Location Zhongxin District, Xian

	Main Sights City Wall Park, Yongning Gate (South Gate), Anyuan Gate (North Gate)

	Travel Information Admission Fee: 54 Yuan Opening Hours: 8:00AM – 8:00PM Best Time to Visit: Xian City Wall is suitable to visit during March to June and September to October. Summer is very hot so its best to avoid touring during the day and to visit after sunset.

	Transportation 1. To reach the West Gate take buses 4, 7, 10, 15, 18, 21, 23, 31, 43, 45, 201, 107 or 202. 2. To reach the North Gate and South Gate take Subway Line 2. 3. To reach the East Gate take buses 8, 22, 27, 29, 33, 37.

	Travel Tips 1. Try to avoid visiting during the summer holidays and Golden Week in October as it will be extremely crowded. 2. If you plan to visit during the summer try to avoid touring during the day as it will be extremly hot. Also in the winter be prepared to dress warmly for the dry bitter cold temperatures.