Overview
Yingtianmen Gate in Luoyang served as the main southern gate of the Imperial City during the Sui and Tang dynasties. Originally constructed in 605 AD (the first year of the Daye era), it was the site of Wu Zetian’s enthronement ceremony and is hailed as the "Number One Gate of the Sui and Tang Dynasties."
The best time to visit is around 16:00; start by exploring the ruins on the first level (where Sui-Tang rammed-earth structures and the remains of the "one gate, three passageways" layout are preserved beneath a glass walkway) and the museum on the second level. In the early evening (18:30–19:30), capture the "blue hour"—the transition between sunset and the illumination of the gate. A free 3D light projection show takes place at the North Plaza every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 20:30 (lasting approximately 15 minutes; cancelled in case of rain). A visit of 2–3 hours is recommended to fully experience both the historical ruins by day and the spectacular light show by night.
How to Get There
Transportation:
Subway (Highly Recommended): Take Luoyang Metro Line 1 to Yingtianmen Station. Exit via Exit C or A and walk for approximately 2–3 minutes to reach the scenic area's South Plaza.
Bus: Take Bus No. 4, 5, 8, or 9 to the "Zhongzhou Middle Road & Dingding Road Intersection" stop; alternatively, take the "Shendu Tour Line 1" (running between Luoyi Ancient City and Yingtianmen).
Self-driving: The scenic area offers an underground parking lot (5 RMB/hour) and a surface parking lot at the North Plaza. However, parking spaces are scarce during holidays and the surrounding area is prone to traffic congestion, so taking the subway or bus is recommended.
Recommended Tour Route (No backtracking): Enter via the South Gate security checkpoint → First Floor (Ruins Level): View the Sui-Tang rammed-earth structures and the "One Gate, Three Passageways" ruins via the glass walkway → Take the escalator to the Second Floor: Visit the City Gate Museum and the Wufengtai (Five Phoenix Terrace) Observation Deck → Ascend the Watchtowers for the view (requires a performance package ticket) → Head to the North Plaza in the evening for the light show → Exit via the North Gate. Yingtianmen is only about 800 meters away from the Mingtang and Tiantang scenic area (within walking distance); purchasing a combined ticket to visit both is recommended.
What to Expect
Elevators and escalators connect the various floors within the scenic area, facilitating movement; however, reaching the Ziwei Pavilion on the sixth floor requires using the stairs (there is no direct elevator access). Public restrooms are available both inside and in the immediate vicinity of the site (with signage provided). Gift and cultural merchandise shops—including the "Luoyang Gifts" store—are located at the north exit on the first floor and on the west side of the North Plaza, offering specialty items such as fridge magnets and Tang-style tri-colored glazed pottery. The first-floor foyer is currently open to the public free of charge and provides comprehensive visitor services.
Practical Tips
- The basic admission ticket (60 yuan) grants access only to the first and second floors; to ascend the West or East Watchtowers for the view, you must purchase the "Grand Court Assembly in Shendu" package or a ticket for the "Tang Palace Music and Banquet" performance.
- Temperatures in Luoyang drop significantly at night, especially during spring and autumn; it is advisable to carry a light jacket with you.
- The Ziwei Pavilion on the 6th floor operates on a timed reservation system with a daily quota; visitors must ascend during their scheduled time slot (access is via stairs), so please plan accordingly.
