Seongsumun Gate

Introducing Seongsumun Gate

Shengshui Gate, named after the naturally formed gate shape on the opposite cliff, is a glacial relic created by ice erosion. It is a sacred place in Daocheng and has many legends.

According to legend, milky white holy water gushes out from the Holy Water Gate on the 15th day of the fourth month of the Tibetan calendar every year. Legend has it that this gate leads to the "Kingdom of Shambhala", and that those who have reached a certain level of spiritual practice can see the scene inside the gate.

According to monks at Gongling Monastery, in June 1998, a group of monks from the former Gonggar Langjiling Monastery, including Living Buddha Ding Zhen, visited the mountain for a circumambulation. The accompanying monks peered through Ding Zhen Living Buddha's armpits at the Heavenly Gate and saw monks inside the gate saluting him. At the same time, at Yangmaiyong Sacred Mountain, Living Buddha Ding Zhen instructed his followers to see a group of monks emerging from the sacred mountain's glacier.

Climate and best time to travel

Plateau monsoon climate;

Best time to visit in autumn

Tickets

Included in the entrance fee to the Yading Scenic Area: 150 yuan + sightseeing bus 120 yuan

Attraction opening hours

7:00-18:30 (Ticket sales stop after 18:30)

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Most Popular FAQs for Seongsumun Gate

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

Seongsumun Gate, also known as the "East Gate" of the ancient town, holds historical importance as one of the main entrances during the region's peak era. Its significance lies in its role in the protection and structure of the old town and its architectural value representing Tibetan culture. It's a symbol of the town's rich history and cultural traditions.

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

Seongsumun Gate is located in the Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Sichuan, China. It can be accessed by taxi or local transportation from nearby cities. Public buses are available from the central area, and it's within walking distance from other key attractions in the town.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The gate is open year-round, with no specific opening or closing times. The best times to visit are during the day when the natural light enhances the beauty of the gate. It is less crowded during weekdays, and early morning or late afternoon visits are ideal for peaceful exploration and photography.

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

There is no entrance fee to visit Seongsumun Gate. It is a public monument that can be accessed freely by visitors. No need for advanced bookings or tickets.

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

No tickets are required for this attraction, so there is no need to book in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring Seongsumun Gate can take around 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on your interest in taking photographs and reading about the historical context. It is not a large site, but the surrounding area offers additional exploration opportunities.

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

The main highlight is the gate itself, with its intricate design and historical significance. It is a beautiful site for photography, with Tibetan architectural details and surrounding natural beauty enhancing the experience.

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

Guided tours may be available, but they are typically in Mandarin or Tibetan. Audio guides are not commonly available in foreign languages, so it's a good idea to explore with a local guide or use a translation app if you prefer more in-depth knowledge.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best spots for photography are from the front of the gate, as well as from elevated areas surrounding the site. The gate’s structure against the backdrop of the mountains offers stunning photo opportunities, especially at sunrise or sunset.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Since the gate is an open-air historical monument, there isn’t a set route inside. Visitors can walk around the gate to appreciate its detailed architecture, take photographs, and learn about the history of the surrounding area. Pair your visit with a walk around the neighborhood for additional cultural immersion.

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

Night visits are not specifically offered, as the gate is an outdoor monument. However, the surrounding area may have festivals or cultural events during certain times of the year, so checking local schedules for any night activities is a good idea.

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

The gate is generally not crowded, except during Tibetan holidays or local festivals. The least crowded times are weekdays and early mornings.

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

Basic amenities like toilets are available nearby, but there are no large facilities directly at the gate. For food and drinks, there are small shops and local restaurants in the surrounding area. Visitors may want to bring water or snacks with them for the visit.

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

The gate is located in an open area, and access is generally easy for elderly and children. However, there might be uneven paths in the surrounding area, so those with mobility issues may face some challenges. It’s advisable to check the route in advance if traveling with disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is often needed for small purchases or local shops around the gate. While larger establishments in nearby towns may accept cards or mobile payments, smaller vendors may only accept cash.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are small local restaurants near the gate offering traditional Tibetan dishes, including momo (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), and various tea varieties. The town of Ganzi has more dining options in its city center.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at local eateries, especially in Ganzi. However, halal food options may be limited in the area.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels and guesthouses in Ganzi, a short drive from Seongsumun Gate. Options range from budget to mid-range, and booking in advance is advisable during peak seasons.

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

Other nearby attractions include the Ganzi Tibetan Culture Museum, which provides additional insights into local culture, and the beautiful Tibetan monasteries in the area. Both can be combined for a comprehensive day trip around the region.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are local souvenir shops in Ganzi selling traditional Tibetan crafts, jewelry, and clothing, including prayer beads, Tibetan rugs, and locally made thangkas (Tibetan paintings). These are excellent keepsakes from your visit.

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

After visiting Seongsumun Gate, taxis or ride-hailing services can take you to other attractions in Ganzi. For those continuing their journey, buses and taxis can connect you to nearby towns or the Ganzi Railway Station for onward travel.