Yongning Gate, also known locally as South Gate, is the main southern entrance to the Xi’an City Wall. As one of the most historically significant and majestic landmarks in Xi’an, it beautifully combines ancient charm with modern vibrancy. Whether you’re here for the historical atmosphere or looking to explore lively streets and unique shops, this guide will show you how to make the most of your visit to Yongning Gate and its surroundings.
Route 1: A Stroll Through Ancient Culture and Modern Vibes
Xiangzimiao Street
Start your journey by walking west from Yongning Gate to Xiangzimiao Street (湘子庙街), named after the historic Xiangzi Temple. This Taoist temple is a serene cultural spot, surrounded by charming ancient-style architecture. The entire street is infused with a rich, historical vibe, making it the perfect place to take in traditional Chinese culture. Along the street, you’ll find numerous small shops selling unique handicrafts and souvenirs, ideal for some treasure hunting.
Shuyuanmen Ancient Cultural Street
Continue your walk to Shuyuanmen Ancient Cultural Street (书院门古文化街), an area steeped in intellectual and artistic history. This street is a haven for culture lovers, with stores offering calligraphy, painting supplies, and traditional Chinese art. The cobblestone streets are lined with antique shops, and you can often see calligraphy enthusiasts showcasing their skills or folk artisans performing traditional crafts. Take your time to admire the intricate works of art and soak in the essence of Chinese culture.
Defu Lane
As your walk continues, make your way to Defu Lane (德福巷), one of Xi’an’s most popular bar streets. This vibrant and lively area is known for its trendy atmosphere, drawing in a young and energetic crowd. At night, the street comes alive with colorful lights, and you can find an array of stylish bars, coffee shops, and restaurants. Whether you’re in the mood for a cocktail, coffee, or live music, Defu Lane is a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the lively nightlife.
Route 2: History, Art, and Local Flavors
Morning:
Begin your day by exploring the historic Yongning Gate itself. Take in the grandeur of this ancient city gate, marveling at its architectural details and imagining the centuries of history that have unfolded here. Climb up to the top of the City Wall to get a bird’s-eye view of Xi’an, where the contrast between the old city and the modern metropolis becomes strikingly clear. Walking along the City Wall, with the breeze in your hair, you’ll feel as if you’ve traveled back in time to the city’s ancient days of glory.
Branch:
After descending from the wall, head towards Tiyuguan East Road (体育馆东路), a charming street known for its artistic atmosphere. With its red brick walls and lush greenery, this road is lined with creative shops, hip cafés, boutique bars, and trendy restaurants. It’s the perfect spot for capturing Instagram-worthy photos, as every corner exudes a unique aesthetic. As you explore the area, take a break at one of the quaint cafés or sample some delicious Xi’an snacks, like spinach noodles (菠菜面), Shaozi noodles (哨子面), or Latiaozi (拉条子), a hand-pulled noodle dish popular in the region.
Lunch:
For lunch, make your way to the Wangfujing Shopping Mall (王府井), where you’ll find a wide variety of delicious food options. Check out Kan Mian Dao (侃面道) in the basement for a unique experience. Their signature dish, Oil-poured Crab Roe Noodles (油泼棍棍蟹黄面), is a must-try. It’s a savory noodle dish with a rich, flavorful crab roe topping, perfect for fans of hearty, umami-rich flavors. The price is reasonable too, at just 59.9 RMB for a single-person meal, which includes three side dishes and ginger tea. Alternatively, head to the Green Tea Restaurant (绿茶餐厅), where their new Double Temptation Bread Set (面包诱惑新品双人餐) is an exciting choice for two.
Afternoon:
After a satisfying lunch, make your way to the fourth floor of SKP Shopping Mall for an unforgettable art experience. The installation exhibitions here are filled with creativity and imagination, offering a perfect blend of technology and art. From the Mechanical Zebra (机械斑马) to The Last Earthling (最后一个地球人), the installations showcase unique and futuristic artistic expressions. This space feels like an art lover’s paradise, and the pieces on display are sure to spark your creativity. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to snap some ultra-stylish photos that will impress your friends.
Evening:
As the day winds down, head to the front of Heshenghui Mall (合生汇) for some evening entertainment. This area hosts spontaneous live performances from talented artists who come from all over the country to showcase their skills. Whether it’s singing, dancing, or magic shows, the variety of acts guarantees there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Find a spot to sit and watch the performances while soaking in the lively evening atmosphere that Xi’an has to offer.
If you still have energy after the performances, head back to Yongning Gate to experience its nighttime beauty. The gate is beautifully illuminated, creating a breathtaking sight. You might even catch local musicians performing within the gate’s arches, adding a magical soundtrack to your evening walk. Nearby, Defu Lane (德福巷) comes alive with its bright lights, creating a wonderful backdrop for nighttime photos and offering one last opportunity to explore Xi’an’s vibrant nightlife.