Live Your Best Lives
The ruins of the Ming Dynasty Tongguan City, from its initial construction to the Tang Dynasty, underwent two migrations and was fortified in three different locations, with numerous changes in the city's structure and facilities. In the early years of the Eastern Han Dynasty, the abandoned Qin Dynasty established Hangu Pass in Lingbao County, Henan Province.
In addition to the magnificent buildings atop the city walls, the Tongguan City of the Ming and Qing dynasties boasted over 30 temples, monasteries, and wooden and stone memorial archways, both within and beyond the city walls and on the hillsides. These ancient structures, with their carved beams and painted rafters, overhanging eaves and overlapping screens, exude an antique charm and exquisite construction. By the Qing Dynasty, Tongguan City's main streets included Yuxian Street, Shuaifu Street, Four Archway Streets, South Archway, North Archway, Fubu Street, Xianmentong Street, Xia Nanmen Street, and Xiguan Street. Over 50 lanes and alleyways stretched across the city, creating a dense, undulating network. With so many streets, alleys, and ancient buildings within this modest city, one can only imagine its prosperity.
The warm temperate continental monsoon climate makes it suitable for travel in all four seasons.
Nearby attractions: Huashan's First Pass, Mingtongguan City Ruins, Tang Xuanzong's Tai Mausoleum, Yuxiu Bridge, Jingshi Warehouse Ruins, Puzhao Temple, Fenglingdu, Huizhao Temple, Tanan Temple, Tang Pagoda, Loess Plateau Folk Village, Sanhe Wetland Nature Reserve, Liangzhou Ruins, Kou Zhun's Tomb in Fuping County, Dayu Temple, Mongolian-Chinese Stele
It is recommended to visit for about 1 day.
free
Open all day
Ming Tongguan City Ruins were once a key military and strategic site during the Tang Dynasty. It served as an important gateway for trade and military defense in ancient China, especially due to its location along the Silk Road.
The ruins are located in Weinan, Shaanxi Province, near Huayin. The easiest way to get there is by taxi from the city center of Weinan or Huayin. Public buses are also available, but taxis offer more convenience.
The site is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler weather.
The entrance fee is approximately 20 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. There is no official online booking system.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary. You can buy tickets directly at the entrance on the day of your visit.
It usually takes about 1 to 2 hours to fully explore the ruins, depending on how much time you spend on each section and enjoying the surrounding views.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some guides may be able to offer limited English explanations. Audio guides are not commonly available at this site.
The best photography spots are from the top of the city walls and at the main gates. These points offer panoramic views of the ruins and surrounding valleys.
Start by visiting the city gates and walls. Then, explore the residential areas and the remains of the palace. Finally, head towards the elevated points for the best views of the site and surrounding areas.
Currently, there are no night visits or light shows available at the Ming Tongguan City Ruins. Special tours are not common, though local guides may offer more detailed insights upon request.
The site can get busy during weekends and holidays. The least crowded times are weekdays, especially in the morning.
Basic facilities such as toilets are available near the entrance. There are no major food outlets or shops within the site, but nearby local vendors may sell snacks and bottled water.
The site is relatively accessible, though there are some uneven surfaces and steps that may be challenging for those with mobility issues. Elderly visitors and children should be cautious when exploring the ruins.
Cash is commonly used, but mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are also accepted. Credit cards may not be widely accepted at the site.
There are local restaurants near the site that serve traditional Shaanxi cuisine, including noodle dishes and dumplings. There are no cafes or food outlets inside the ruins themselves.
Vegetarian and halal food options are available at some nearby local restaurants, but it's advisable to check the menu ahead of time or ask the staff.
There are no large souvenir shops within the ruins, but small local vendors around the entrance may sell traditional crafts, including pottery and small cultural items.
