Datong City Wall at dusk

The Datong City Wall at dusk is best seen around Yonghe Gate, the South Gate, in the old city of Datong, Shanxi, China. As the light fades, the restored gate towers, corner towers and long battlements are illuminated, and the brick facade turns warm against the darkening sky. The moat-side path below the South Gate gives a full-frontal view of the lit towers with reflections, and it is the preferred spot for photographers. Visitors who climb the rampart can look over the rebuilt streets of the old city, where lanterns and neon signs begin to glow, and over the central axis running north from the gate. The area fills with local residents in the evening, who stroll, practise tai chi, fly kites and dance in the squares, so it offers a view of daily life as well as the architecture. A typical visit lasts an hour or so, with time for photographs at blue hour and a walk along the moat. The wall is part of the 7 km circuit around the old city, although most visitors see only the southern section. Crowds are modest outside summer weekends and national holidays. Visitors should check lighting hours locally, as the floodlights may follow a seasonal schedule. The old city's restaurants and snack stalls are within walking distance, so dinner after the dusk views is a natural plan. A tripod is helpful for long exposures where permitted, and a light jacket is useful, since temperatures drop quickly after sunset.