City Gate

Introducing City Gate

Chengmen Cave is one of the special attractions of Hailuogou Scenic Area, also known as "Glacier Chengmen Cave" because of its shape like a city gate. Hailuogou Chengmen Cave is located on the glacier and is built of thick ice. It is named because of its shape like a city gate.

The Hailuogou City Gate, nestled beneath a thick icy cliff, resembles an impenetrable city gate. Transparent throughout, it stands approximately 5 meters high and 13.5 meters wide. The cave walls shimmer with a vibrant brilliance: red like agate, green like colored glass, azure like the sky, and yellow like bright orange.

The top of the cave is densely covered with numerous crystal clear conical "ice stalactites". The ice body is azure blue, and there are countless conical ice stalactites growing upside down on the top. The further you go in, the dimmer the light becomes. You can faintly hear the glacial river crashing and flowing under the ice, making a dull and powerful rumbling sound.

Climate and best time to travel

The best time to visit Hailuogou is from November to April of the following year. In addition, you can enjoy the glaciers all year round.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-2 hours

Tickets

Tickets are included in the Hailuogou Scenic Area ticket

Attraction opening hours

Summer and Autumn : 7:30-12:30

Winter and Spring : 8:30-12:30

---

Most Popular FAQs for City Gate

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The City Gate in Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture was historically a key entry point to the region, symbolizing both protection and access to the area. The gate has cultural significance as it represents the traditional Tibetan architectural style and serves as a landmark for visitors exploring the region.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The City Gate is located in the heart of Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan. The best way to reach it is by taxi from the main city area or by taking a local bus if available. The City Gate is within walking distance from central parts of the town, so it's also accessible on foot.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The City Gate is open year-round and can be visited at any time during the day. The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon when the lighting for photography is ideal, and the area is less crowded.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee for visiting the City Gate. It is a public monument, so you can visit freely. However, if there are any nearby museums or exhibitions, you may need to purchase separate tickets for those attractions.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Since there is no fee for visiting the City Gate, no tickets are required. If visiting any nearby attractions that require tickets, it is recommended to check availability and purchase tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour to fully explore the City Gate and its surrounding areas. If you wish to explore nearby attractions or take photographs, you might spend a little more time.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The City Gate itself is the main highlight, offering an excellent view of the surrounding areas. The gate's architecture, the stone carvings, and the view of the city are key points of interest. The area around the gate also provides a glimpse into local Tibetan life and culture.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours may be available locally, especially for groups. However, most tours will be in Chinese. English-speaking guides may not always be available, so it’s advisable to arrange a guide in advance if you prefer a tour in English.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spot is directly in front of the City Gate, where you can capture the full structure with the surrounding landscape. The elevated viewpoints in the area also offer great views of the city and the distant mountains, perfect for panoramic photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the City Gate and take time to explore its architectural details. Walk around the gate and visit nearby local streets or parks. If you have more time, explore other nearby historical sites or take a walk through the town to experience the Tibetan culture.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

There are no night visits or light shows available at the City Gate. It is best visited during the day when the structure is fully visible. However, the area is quite peaceful and ideal for evening strolls, especially when the weather is pleasant.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The City Gate is usually not very crowded. The least crowded times are during the weekdays, particularly in the mornings or late afternoons. Weekends and holidays may see a slight increase in visitors.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are no major facilities like restrooms or food vendors directly at the City Gate. However, there are local shops and restaurants nearby where you can purchase snacks, water, and other supplies. Toilets can be found at nearby public facilities.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The City Gate is accessible for most visitors, but the surrounding streets and pathways may not be fully equipped for wheelchairs or strollers. Elderly and children can visit, but some uneven ground may make it difficult for those with mobility challenges.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly used in the area, and mobile payment options such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted. Credit cards are not typically accepted in smaller shops or at the City Gate itself.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few small Tibetan restaurants and cafes near the City Gate where you can try local dishes like momos and Tibetan tea. For more dining options, you can head to the city center, which has a variety of eateries.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

There are vegetarian and vegan food options available in local Tibetan eateries. Halal food options may be limited, but you can find vegetarian dishes that cater to various dietary preferences.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several budget and mid-range hotels in the nearby Ganzi town area. If you prefer a more cultural experience, you may also find traditional Tibetan guesthouses offering a more authentic stay.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Ganzi Monastery, which is a prominent Tibetan Buddhist site, and local Tibetan villages where you can learn about traditional culture. You can also visit nearby mountain ranges or take scenic drives around the region.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops near the City Gate sell traditional Tibetan handicrafts, including prayer flags, jewelry, handmade textiles, and religious artifacts. You can also find locally made clothing and accessories.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

The best way to continue your trip after visiting the City Gate is by taxi or private car. Ganzi town is well-connected by buses, and there are long-distance buses available for traveling to other parts of Sichuan or the Tibetan Plateau.