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The moat of Xi'an has a history of more than 600 years. It was built from the seventh to the eleventh year of the Hongwu reign of the Ming Dynasty (1374-1378). The moat, also known as the moat, is an artificial protective river surrounding the city wall. It is an important city wall defense fortification to prevent military attacks and defend the city.
The moat of Xi'an has withstood the test of time and still retains its majestic grandeur. When people take an ancient pleasure boat and cruise on the rippling moat, they look up and see the oldest and best-preserved ancient city wall in China.
In the lush Ring City Park at the foot of the city wall, people enjoy the tranquility of the city, playing musical instruments, playing fitness games, and enjoying the beauty of urban leisure. "In the evening, the clear waters of the Wei River, as if they were the banks of the Chu River," is no longer just a beautiful wish. Today, the rippling moat adds another layer of color to the scenery of "the eight rivers of Qinchuan surround Chang'an, and the five tombs of the Han Dynasty stand tall and empty."
It has a temperate monsoon climate, with very good weather in spring, summer and autumn, which is the best time for travel.
1-2 hours
Boat ticket: 40 yuan
All day
The Xi'an Moat, built during the Tang Dynasty, served as an important defense mechanism surrounding the ancient city of Xi'an. The moat was part of the city's fortifications and is now an iconic feature of Xi'an, offering a glimpse into its rich historical past while blending with the modern cityscape.
The Xi'an Moat is located around the central area of Xi'an, surrounding the ancient city. It can be easily reached by taxi, public bus, or metro. The closest metro station is the City Wall station (Line 2), and it’s a short walk from there to the moat.
The Xi'an Moat is a public space and can be visited at any time. The best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler, and the light is ideal for photography. The area can be busier during weekends and holidays.
There is no entrance fee to walk along the Xi'an Moat. However, certain activities like boat rides may require a ticket, which can be purchased on-site or through local travel agencies.
Booking tickets in advance is not required unless you plan to take a boat ride or a guided tour, in which case it is advisable to book a day or two in advance, especially during busy seasons.
A visit to the Xi'an Moat, including a boat ride or walking along the path, can take 1 to 2 hours. If you plan to explore nearby parks or historical sites, you may want to allocate additional time.
Guided tours are available for those who want a deeper understanding of the history of the moat and the city walls. Some tours may be offered in English, but it’s best to check in advance. Audio guides may also be available at certain sites along the moat.
The best photography spots are from the bridges and walkways along the moat. The City Wall, visible from the moat, provides an excellent backdrop for photos. Sunset and sunrise offer the best lighting conditions.
Night visits to the Xi'an Moat are possible, and the surrounding area is beautifully illuminated in the evenings. However, there are no official light shows. It’s a peaceful place for evening strolls and night photography.
The Xi'an Moat can be busy during weekends and holidays. For a more peaceful experience, visit in the early morning or on weekdays, especially during the off-peak tourist seasons (spring and autumn).
There are public toilets near the moat and several small food vendors selling snacks and drinks. There are also cafes and restaurants in the area, but be sure to carry water with you if you plan to walk for an extended period.
The Xi'an Moat is accessible for elderly and children. However, some parts of the walking path may not be fully wheelchair accessible. The surrounding areas are well-paved, making it suitable for a relaxing stroll for most visitors.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted for purchases in the area. Cash is still used by some vendors, but it’s a good idea to have a mobile payment app ready for convenience.
There are various restaurants and cafes near the Xi'an Moat, offering a mix of local Xi'an cuisine and international options. Many cafes near the moat offer outdoor seating with a view of the water and surrounding green spaces.
Xi'an has a large Muslim population, and halal food is widely available. Many vegetarian options are also offered in the local restaurants, especially in the Muslim Quarter, which is close to the moat.
There are many hotels within walking distance of the Xi'an Moat. Options range from budget hotels to more luxurious ones, such as the Grand Park Xi'an Hotel, which offers easy access to the moat and other nearby attractions.
Yes, there are souvenir shops in the area selling traditional Xi'an goods, including Terracotta Warrior replicas, traditional crafts, calligraphy, and local snacks such as Roujiamo (Chinese hamburger).
Taxis, buses, and the metro are all readily available around the Xi'an Moat for continuing your trip. For a more relaxed journey, consider using ride-sharing apps like Didi, or rent a bike to explore the area further.
