Tongyuan Gate

Tongyuan Gate is one of only two surviving gates from Chongqing’s Ming-dynasty city wall, and the better-preserved of the pair. Of the city’s original seventeen gates, this was historically the only land entrance — the rest opened onto the rivers — which gave rise to its name, roughly translating as “the gate to far-reaching places,” marking the start of overland routes out of the city.

The surviving double-arched stone gateway stands over five meters tall and more than seven meters thick, with roughly a hundred meters of original wall extending on either side. The surrounding Tongyuan Gate Remains Park adds sculptures depicting the wall’s construction and past sieges, along with a small bell tower converted into a teahouse. From here, steps lead down into Shancheng Alley, a steep, atmospheric old lane lined with traditional houses and street art that makes for a satisfying short walk toward the river.

Entry to the park and gate is free, and the site works well combined with a walk down to Shancheng Alley or on to Ba Manzi’s Tomb, just a few minutes away.