Things to Do at Ancient City Wall
Complete Guide to Ancient City Wall in Xi'an
About Ancient City Wall
This remarkable destination showcases ancient city wall's unique character through hand-carved stone details that have survived centuries of weathering. Visitors can explore the site with entrance fees typically ¥40-50 (-7.0 USD), and guided tours are available from certified local guides who share fascinating historical details not found in standard guidebooks. Experience footsteps echoing off cobblestone pathways as you wander through the carefully preserved spaces that tell the story of Xi'an's cultural evolution. The location offers multiple vantage points for photography, each revealing different aspects of the architecture's relationship with its surroundings. For the best experience, check local weather as sudden rain showers are common in the afternoon. Local vendors nearby offer authentic refreshments and small souvenirs crafted by artisans who have worked in this area for generations.
What to See & Do
South Gate (Yongning Gate)
The main entrance with the best facilities: bike rental (CNY 40 for 100 minutes, CNY 200 deposit), souvenir shops, and a plaza that hosts a daily gate-opening ceremony. The gate structure is the most elaborate, with a double gate, urn city (barbican), and watchtower. Climb the internal ramps to the top and orient yourself before starting the circuit
Wall-Top Cycling
Cycling the full 13.7 km circuit takes 90-120 minutes depending on stops. Single bikes (CNY 40/100 min) and tandems (CNY 80/100 min) are available at all four main gates. The surface is brick - slightly bumpy but manageable. Return bikes to any gate. The west wall has the fewest tourists. Bring water - there are no vendors on the wall itself
Corner Watchtowers
Each of the four corner towers has interior exhibits on military history: siege weapons, garrison life, and defensive tactics. The northeast tower is least visited and has the best panoramic views, including the railway station and the mountains beyond. The towers provide shade and seating - plan your cycling breaks around them
Moat and Park Ring
The complete moat encircles the wall at ground level, flanked by willow-lined walking paths and small parks. The southeast section near the Qujiang area is the prettiest. Local retirees practice tai chi, play chess, and walk their birds in cages. The moat park is free and gives you a ground-level perspective of the wall's scale
Night Illumination
Red lanterns line the entire 13.7 km wall after dark, turning the ramparts into a continuous ribbon of light. The South Gate plaza has the most dramatic lighting. The wall stays open until 10:00 PM in summer (8:00 PM winter). Evening visits are cooler, emptier, and more atmospheric than daytime. Night cycling is magical - bring a jacket
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Daily 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM (last entry at 9:30 PM). Hours might vary slightly by season, so worth checking ahead.
Tickets & Pricing
54 RMB for adults, with discounts for students and seniors. Bike rental costs an additional 45 RMB for 100 minutes. You can buy tickets at any of the gates or online through various platforms.
Best Time to Visit
Late afternoon into early evening tends to be ideal - you'll catch good light for photos and can stay for the sunset and night illumination. Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable weather for the walk.
Suggested Duration
Plan 2-4 hours depending on how much of the wall you want to cover. A partial walk of 2-3 gates takes about 1-2 hours.
Getting There
Things to Do Nearby
These iconic Ming Dynasty towers sit right in the center of the walled city and make perfect bookends to a wall visit. The Bell Tower particularly offers great views back toward the wall.
Xi'an's famous food street and historic Muslim district is just north of the Drum Tower. It's touristy but the food is genuinely excellent, especially after working up an appetite on the wall.
A fascinating collection of ancient stone tablets and calligraphy, located near the South Gate. It's a nice cultural complement to the wall's military history.
A pedestrian street lined with traditional shops selling calligraphy supplies, antiques, and local crafts. It runs right up to the South Gate, so you'll likely pass through anyway.