About Ancient City Wall
Xi'an's Ancient City Wall is the most complete and best-preserved city wall in China, stretching 13.7 kilometers in a perfect rectangle around the old city. Originally built during the Tang Dynasty (7th century), the current structure dates from the Ming Dynasty (14th century), with a core of rammed earth faced with brick and stone.
The wall stands 12 meters high, with a width of 15 meters at the top — wide enough for cycling or walking. It features 98 ramparts, 5,984 crenellations, and four main gates. The moat surrounding the wall adds to the defensive grandeur. Today, the wall serves as a unique urban park where locals and visitors can walk, jog, or cycle while enjoying views of both ancient Xi'an within and the modern city beyond.
What Not to Miss
Cycling the full 14km circuit — the most popular activity, taking about 1.5-2 hours at a leisurely pace.
The South Gate (Yongning Gate), the most ornate and best-preserved gate, with ceremonial archways.
Sunset views from the wall, when the city transforms from day to night and lanterns illuminate the gates.
