Xi'an's 14th-century wall still stands, although today it is intersected by a few modern roads. It is one of the most important city walls in China and certainly one of the best examples from the Ming. Construction began during the reign of Hongwu, the first Ming emperor, on the remains of the Sui and Tang wall and took eight years to complete. Repairs and renovation have now been carried out by the local government to restore the wall to its original splendour and the structure is now once again completely connected. The circumference is 13.7 kilometres (8.5 miles), and it is 12 metres (40 feet) high, 12-14 metres (40-46 feet) wide at the top and 15-18 metres (49-59 feet) wide at the bottom. It is surrounded by a moat.

The Ming city gates face the four cardinal points, set off-centre in each of the sides of the rectangular wall. Originally each gate had two structures: the gate tower, a triple-eaved building 34.6 metres (114 feet) long, and beyond, on the city wall itself, was the massive archers' tower, 53.2 metres (175 feet) in length, with 48 openings on the outer face from which missiles could be fired on a potential enemy. Visitors are usually taken to the towers above the South Gate, which are well preserved; but instead of guardrooms and barracks you will now find souvenir shops and showrooms inside them.

Access to the top of the wall can also be gained at the North and West gates, and at all of the smaller gates along the south wall, where landscaping of the area between the wall and moat has provided a pleasant setting for a stroll. At the South Gate bicycles can be rented, and one can ride six kilometres along the wall, including the return trip. Motorized tourist vehicles are also available for the journey. It is open from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm and is attractively lit in the evening.

Tourist Advice

Xian is surrounded by its original old city wall. It is high and wide which leaves a road on the top which is empty. Perfect for walking or biking. While its a long way to walk around the city on the wall, it is perfect for biking. It is safe as there are no vehicles and the wall is protected, you're not going to fall off. We organize as part of our tours a bike trip on the city wall. You can bike the entire circuit in 1-2 hours or just along part of it if you prefer. You can stop at various viewpoints and look down at the activity below. This can be done during the day or as an evening activity as the wall has lights. Great fun and a chance to work off some of that Chinese food!