The route along the ancient City Wall in Xi’an is a memorable running experience. The well-preserved city wall, originally built in 194 BC, was reconstructed in the 14th century during the early Ming dynasty and was based on the inner imperial palace of Tang dynasty. The Bell Tower, built in 1384 during the Ming Dynasty, is considered the ‘center’ of Xi’an.
Bell Tower. cc-by-2.0
A stone-surfaced path follows the 14 km perimeter of the wall. Although sections can be crowded, it’s less busy and very runnable away from the main gates. Access the wall via stairs from one of the main gates (note: admission required). The path along the wall is seamless and easy to follow. It’s lined with red lanterns, while hidden speakers provide a musical background interspersed information (in Mandarin) about the wall. There are ornate guard towers at the corners, and several Visitor Centers along the way. The full loop is nearly 14 km, but you can also choose a section!
Add-Ons: Xingqinggong (Xing Qing) Park, near the southeast end of the wall, is a nice 2 km loop.
The route along the ancient City Wall in Xi’an is a memorable running experience. The well-preserved city wall, originally built in 194 BC, was reconstructed in the 14th century during the early Ming dynasty and was based on the inner imperial palace of Tang dynasty. The Bell Tower, built in 1384 during the Ming Dynasty, is considered the ‘center’ of Xi’an.
Bell Tower. cc-by-2.0
A stone-surfaced path follows the 14 km perimeter of the wall. Although sections can be crowded, it’s less busy and very runnable away from the main gates. Access the wall via stairs from one of the main gates (note: admission required). The path along the wall is seamless and easy to follow. It’s lined with red lanterns, while hidden speakers provide a musical background interspersed information (in Mandarin) about the wall. There are ornate guard towers at the corners, and several Visitor Centers along the way. The full loop is nearly 14 km, but you can also choose a section!
Add-Ons: Xingqinggong (Xing Qing) Park, near the southeast end of the wall, is a nice 2 km loop.
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Essentials
Full loop: 14 km (8.7 miles)
Fairly flat
From one of the gates
The Chanle Gate or the Yongningmen (North) Gate are popular access points
The 16 km of pedestrian-only paths along the Bahe River are one of the best opportunities in for a longer, seamless run in Xi'an. Nice views of the water and city skyline. The paths pass under bridges.
The park, located in the Baqiao District along the Bahe River, is pleasant for running with 5-6 km paths around gardens, lakes, and some forested sections. Can add with Bahe River paths.
Scenic, 3.2 km loop around the historic pond at Quijang Pool Park in the Yanta District. Don't miss the Willow Dam. For a longer run, run the wide perimeter roads around the adjacent Tang Paradise.
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Essentials
Full loop: 14 km (8.7 miles)
Fairly flat
From one of the gates
The Chanle Gate or the Yongningmen (North) Gate are popular access points
Review or Comment on This Route/Share a Photo!
Share your feedback on this route and see that of other Great Runs users. Click on the image icon to upload a photo. And please let us know if there are notes or changes we should incorporate!