FOR TOURISTS, XI'AN'S GATES ARE ALWAYS OPEN

China's ancient capital has long been a draw for snap-happy visitors, but the city's latest charm offensive is also attracting emerging industries. Camilla Tenn reports in Xi'an.

A grand entrance ceremony takes place at Xi'an's Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) city walls every day, as the ancient capital of China opens its spectacularly preserved South Gate to the masses with great pomp and pageantry, as it would have done for VIPs in the olden days.

Hoards of performers stage a Tang Dynasty-style (618-907) welcome - the period in which the original walls were built - as they lead crowds of tourists armed with cameras through the park, over the bridge and into the city proper.