South Gate Tower (Yingxun Gate)

South Gate Tower (Yingxun Gate)

The South Gate is the main entrance to the ancient city of Pingyao, officially named “Yingxun Gate.” The character “Xun” (薰) conveys warmth and implies the welcoming of peace, prosperity, and good fortune.

The ancient city of Pingyao has six gates, two on the east and two on the west. Viewed from above, the city resembles a turtle about to move forward, with its head facing south and tail pointing north. The four side gates are likened to the turtle’s four legs, which is why locals often refer to it as the “Turtle City.” Outside the South Gate, the ancient Zhongdu River once meandered by, inspiring ancient scholars to write: “A turtle plays with water in front, mountains and rivers face the sunrise—the city is built here for good reason.” The turtle is a symbol of good fortune and longevity. The notion of the “Turtle City” stems from ancient worship of the “Four Divine Creatures,” and symbolizes a city fortified and enduring for generations.

The terrain of Pingyao slopes from south to north, with gates on all four sides. Based on orientation and topography, locals have named the six gates: South Gate, North Gate, Upper East Gate, Upper West Gate, Lower East Gate, and Lower West Gate. By the Qing Dynasty, after a major renovation of the city wall that began in the 30th year of the Daoguang reign, then-county magistrate Liu Xu renamed the six gates and personally inscribed their plaques: Yingxun (迎薰), Gongji (拱极), Taihe (太和), Yongding (永定), Qinhan (亲翰), and Fengyi (凤仪). Since the city faces south with a slight eastward tilt, the South Gate welcomes the mild, southeasterly winds—hence the name “Yingxun Gate,” meaning “Gate that Welcomes the Warm Breeze.”

Attraction Location

South Gate of the Ancient City of Pingyao, Pingyao County, Jinzhong City