Location & Transport

Yongning Gate, the historic south gate of Xi’an City Wall, sits at the heart of downtown Xi’an. You’ll find it near the intersection of South Gate Roundabout and West Section of Shuncheng South Road in Beilin District. This spot is super easy to reach—just look for the giant roundabout with fountains and wide-open spaces. It’s right next to South Street (Nan Da Jie) and faces South Gate Square, making it a busy hub for both tourists and locals.

To get here, take the metro to Yongningmen Station (Line 2 or Line 12). Or hop on buses 21, 23, 26, or 603—they all drop you near the gate. If you’re walking from the Bell Tower, it’s about a 15-minute stroll south.

Natural Scenery

Don’t expect mountains or lakes here—Yongning Gate’s charm is all about human history! But the area around it does have a cool vibe. The South Gate Square outside is huge, with green lawns, statues, and fountains that light up at night. During sunset, the golden light reflects off the walls, creating a pretty dramatic backdrop for photos. Inside the gate, South Street buzzes with shops and lights, while outside, South Gate Street (Nan Guan Zheng Jie) feels more local, with smaller eateries and markets.

Cultural Heritage

Yongning Gate has a 1,400-year story! Built in the early Sui Dynasty (around 581–618 AD), it started as Anshang Gate, one of three south gates of the imperial city. Later, during the Tang Dynasty, a governor named Han Jian rebuilt Xi’an’s walls, keeping Yongning Gate as the main south entrance. The name “Yongning” (meaning “ever peaceful”) came much later, in the Ming Dynasty.

Today, the gate is part of Xi’an City Wall, a complete medieval fortification. Climb up, and you’ll see ancient bricks, watchtowers, and even spots where soldiers once stood guard. At night, the walls are lit with warm lanterns, giving you a magical view of the old city.

Facilities Around

The area is tourist-friendly! Near Yongning Gate, you’ll find:

  • Restaurants: Try local specialties like biangbiang noodles or mutton soup at places along South Gate Street.
  • Souvenir Shops: Buy mini replicas of the City Wall or traditional Shaanxi handicrafts.
  • Bicycle Rentals: Rent a bike to cycle around the entire 13.7-km wall (but bring energy—it’s a long ride!).
  • Public Restrooms: Clean ones are available near the square and inside tourist centers.

Visiting Experience

Walking through Yongning Gate feels like stepping into history. The gate itself is a thick, solid structure with wooden doors and stone steps. Inside, South Street is packed with shops, but step outside, and you’re on South Gate Square, which feels open and modern. At night, the square turns into a lively spot with music, dancing fountains, and food stalls.

For the best photos, come in the evening. The gate is beautifully lit, and the square fills up with people enjoying the night air. If you’re up for a hike, rent a bike and ride the full loop of the city wall—it’s exhausting but unforgettable. Just remember to stay hydrated!

Pro Tips:

  • Avoid noontime visits in summer—it gets scorching on the walls!
  • Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Bell Tower (15 minutes north) or Muslim Quarter (20 minutes west).
  • For history buffs, check out the Xi’an City Wall Relic Museum inside the gate.

Yongning Gate isn’t just a door—it’s a portal to Xi’an’s past. Whether you’re snapping pics, cycling the walls, or soaking in the square’s energy, it’s a must-see for anyone exploring this ancient city!