Sunrise and Sunsetin Xi’an, China

Xi'an sits on the Guanzhong Plain in central China, with mountains to the south and flat terrain to the north. The mix of ancient elevated structures like the City Wall and open lakeside parks provides varied options for watching sunrise and sunset.

Best sunrise spots in Xi’an

1. Xi'an City Wall

   The 14km wall stands 12m high with unobstructed views in all directions. East Gate (Changle Gate) faces the sunrise directly. Entry CNY 54, opens at 08:00, Metro Line 2 Yongningmen Station.

2. Daming Palace National Heritage Park

   The free outer zone of this 3.5 sq km Tang Dynasty ruin site is accessible around the clock. The raised Hanyuan Hall platform faces southeast with flat, open terrain and no obstructions. Metro Line 4, Daminggong Station.

3. Chanba National Wetland Park

   Located at the confluence of the Chan and Ba Rivers in northeast Xi'an, this wetland park offers sunrise views over open water. Observation towers provide elevated vantage points. Free entry, opens at 08:00. Metro Line 3, Xianghuwan Station, then 15 minutes on foot.

4. Qujiang Pool Ruins Park

   The south shore of this Tang Dynasty lake faces east with no obstructions. The park is open 24 hours with no gates or entry fee. Metro Line 4, Qujiangchi Xi Station.

Best sunset spots in Xi’an

1. Xi'an City Wall

   West Gate (Anding Gate) offers wide views toward the setting sun over the western districts. Bike rental on the wall costs CNY 45 per 100 minutes. The South Gate stays open until midnight.

2. Giant Wild Goose Pagoda North Square

   Asia's largest Tang-culture plaza (168,000 sq m) is open around the clock and free to enter. From the eastern end, the 64m pagoda creates a silhouette against the western sky. Musical fountain shows at 19:00 and 21:00. Metro Line 3 or 4, Dayanta Station.

3. Hancheng Lake Park

   This free lake park along the Han Dynasty wall ruins stretches north to south. The eastern shore faces west across the water. The Dafengge Pavilion observation deck offers the best elevated view. Opens 06:00 in summer, 07:00 in winter. Bus 235 from Metro Line 2 Fengcheng Wulu Station.

4. Qujiang Pool Ruins Park

   The north and east shores face west across the curved lake. Waterfront cafes and tea houses line the paths. The wide water surface reflects evening colors well.

5. Tang Paradise

   Furong Lake inside this imperial garden park reflects sunset light between Tang Dynasty pavilions and pagodas. Entry CNY 120, opens at 09:00. An evening water and laser show starts after dark. Metro Line 4, Datang Furongyuan Station, 150m walk north.