Moon Gate

Introducing Moon Gate

Located within the Zhenbeibao Film and Television City in Yinchuan, Ningxia, the Moon Gate was used as a filming location for the famous films "The Herdsman" and "Red Sorghum." The Moon Gate is one of the most iconic and beautiful scenes in Chinese film and television. Designed by renowned Chinese artist Yang Gang, it served as a key setting in the film and is considered a classic work of cinematography. The Moon Gate, framed by the bright moon, exudes a majestic and tragic beauty. Its arched shape further embodies the indomitable spirit of the Chinese nation and symbolizes the strength of Chinese unity. This unique structure is known as "karst landform." The Moon Gate is a mound of desertified loess, formerly a Ming Dynasty defensive wall. The film "A Chinese Odyssey" truly catapulted the Moon Gate to fame, featuring the poignant love story between Stephen Chow and the fairy Zixia. Today, many visitors dress in period costumes, and scenes from the original filming have been recreated on both sides of the Moon Gate.

Climate and best time to travel

Temperate continental climate; Moon Gate is located in Zhenbeibao Film and Television City in Yinchuan, Ningxia. It was designed by the famous Chinese artist Yang Gang and is the main scene of the famous film "Red Sorghum". It is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The Moon Gate is located in the Zhenbeibao Film and Television City in Yinchuan, Ningxia. In addition to the famous Moon Gate attraction, there are also the Treasure Bowl, the Swordsman, the Pagoda Forest, the Zhoujiadian Ruins, the Ronin Tribe, the Bull Demon King's Marriage Recruitment Platform, the Human Meat Bun Shop, the Bitter Water Town, Jiuer's Living Room, the Central Asian Small Building, the Cultural Revolution Compound, the Ancient Castle Turtle Hexagram, the Low Carbon Art Museum, the Bull Demon King's Palace, the Gate of Luck, etc.

It is recommended to play for 1-3 hours

Tickets

Pass 80 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

Peak season (April 15th - October 15th): 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Off-season (October 16th - April 14th): 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM

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Most Popular FAQs for Moon Gate

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

The Moon Gate is a historic architectural feature, often associated with traditional Chinese gardens and symbolizing harmony and balance. It has cultural significance, representing a bridge between the physical and spiritual realms.

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

Located in Yinchuan, Ningxia, the Moon Gate can be reached by taxi or local buses from the city center. It is easily accessible by foot from nearby attractions.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Moon Gate is open year-round, with the best times to visit being early morning or late afternoon when the light is perfect for photography and the site is less crowded.

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

There is no specific entrance fee for the Moon Gate itself, as it is part of a public park. However, some nearby attractions may charge a small fee. Tickets for those can be bought on-site.

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

Booking tickets in advance is generally not required for the Moon Gate, but it’s recommended for any nearby attractions or special events during peak seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It will take around 30 minutes to 1 hour to explore the Moon Gate and enjoy the surrounding area, including time for photography and relaxing in the park.

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

The main highlight is the Moon Gate itself, but the surrounding garden and scenic views make the entire area worth exploring. Take time to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

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

There are no formal guided tours or audio guides available for the Moon Gate, but local guides may be available for hire for nearby attractions in Mandarin.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints for photography are directly in front of the Moon Gate, where you can capture both the gate and the picturesque surroundings. The nearby garden also offers great angles.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the Moon Gate and taking photos. Then, walk around the park and garden to explore the landscape and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. If you have time, visit nearby attractions.

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

Night visits and light shows are not available at the Moon Gate. However, the gate can be visited at night for a peaceful and quiet experience, as the area remains open.

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

The Moon Gate can get busy during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays.

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

There are public restrooms nearby and a small café offering refreshments. There are also benches and shaded areas to relax. No major shopping facilities are on-site.

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

The Moon Gate area is mostly accessible for elderly and children, with paved paths leading to it. However, certain sections of the surrounding park may not be fully accessible for disabled visitors due to uneven terrain.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted at some small kiosks nearby, but most places accept mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There is a small café near the Moon Gate where you can grab a quick snack or drink. For more dining options, head to the city center of Yinchuan, where a variety of restaurants are available.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and halal food options are available in restaurants in Yinchuan. Nearby restaurants typically offer a wide variety of Chinese dishes.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Hotels like the Ningxia Hotel and Yinchuan International Hotel are located close to the Moon Gate, offering convenient access to the attraction.

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

Nearby attractions include the Ningxia Museum, Helan Mountain, and Western Xia Tombs, which can easily be combined in a day trip from the Moon Gate.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir kiosks near the Moon Gate selling postcards, local handicrafts, and art pieces. For more variety, visit souvenir shops in Yinchuan.

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

Taxi or public transportation (buses) are the best options for continuing your trip to nearby attractions or back to the city center.