Xi’an’s City Wall is the best-preserved ancient city wall in China, and the best way to see the old town in one go. The existing wall was built between 1374 and 1378 in the early Ming dynasty, on the footprint of the earlier Tang city, and it still runs for about 13.7 kilometres around the historic centre. The top is wide enough for cyclists and walkers, with the old town and its modern towers on one side and a moat-side park on the other. Four original gates, Changle in the east, Yongning in the south, Anding in the west and Anyuan in the north, anchor the circuit, each with gate towers and an archery tower, and visitors can climb up at several points. The south gate is the most elaborate, and the evening lights make the walk especially atmospheric. Cycling the whole circuit on a rented bike is a classic Xi’an experience.
How to visit
You can climb the wall at several gates, with the South Gate, near the Bell Tower, the most convenient and the most visited. Metro Line 2 serves the South Gate at Yongningmen station and the North Gate at Anyuanmen station. Tickets are bought at the gate you choose, and bike rental is available at a few of the entrances, so you can start where it suits you.
What to expect
The full circuit on foot takes several hours, while a bike takes around one and a half to two hours at a leisurely pace. The surface is made of uneven stone, so a hybrid or standard bike is more comfortable than a folding bike, and a sightseeing cart is another option. Cyclists share the path with walkers, and there are plenty of places to stop for photographs and a rest.
Making the most of it
Go late in the afternoon so that you can enjoy the changing light and see the gate towers lit at dusk, and wear layers because the top of the wall is exposed to wind. Gates can close at different times, and the opening hours shift with the season, so check before you go. A shorter walk between two gates is a good alternative if you do not want the full loop.
November is cool, dry and often clear, making it one of the best months for the wall. Cycling is pleasant, though you will want gloves on a windy day, and the evening lights are a highlight of a visit.
What to expect
The experience
A walk or bike ride along the top of a 13.7-kilometre rampart, with climbs at several gates and rental bikes at some entrances.
Best time
Late afternoon into the evening, when the light is soft and the gate towers are lit.
How long
About two hours by bike for the full circuit, or a shorter walk between two gates.
Tips
Choose a sturdy bike, wear layers for the wind, and check gate hours before you go.
Quick picks
- Best for
- First-time visitors who want to see the old town and the wall in a single activity.
- Families
- Cycling suits teenagers, while younger children enjoy a shorter walk or a sightseeing cart.
- Couples
- Ride in the late afternoon and stop at a gate tower as the lights come on.
- Pair with
- The Bell and Drum Towers and an evening in the Muslim Quarter.
- Time needed
- Two to three hours.
Good questions
How long is the Xi’an City Wall?+
The wall runs for about 13.7 kilometres around the old town. It was built between 1374 and 1378 in the Ming dynasty.
Can you cycle on the wall?+
Yes, bikes can be rented at several of the gates and the circuit takes about one and a half to two hours. The surface is uneven stone, so choose a sturdy bike.
Where can I climb the wall?+
You can climb at several gates, including the South Gate near the Bell Tower. The South Gate is the most convenient and the most visited.
When is the best time to go?+
Late afternoon into the evening, when the light is gentle and the gate towers are lit. Weekday mornings are quieter if you want the path to yourself.
Is it worth walking the whole circuit?+
Cycling is a better way to do the whole loop, while walking is best done in sections. A walk between two gates gives most of the views.
