Big Wild Goose Pagoda in Xian

Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, Xi’an: Stand on 64.5 Meters of Brick and Talk to a Monk from 1,300 Years Ago
In southern Xi’an stands a pagoda that was once the tallest building in the city—and a spiritual landmark of the entire Tang Dynasty. This is the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda (大雁塔), rising 64.5 meters high with seven stories and a distinctive square brick structure modeled after traditional timber architecture.

It is regarded as the earliest surviving and largest Tang-style square brick pagoda in China. For more than 1,300 years, it has stood in the same place, watching Xi’an transform from the imperial capital of Chang’an into the modern city it is today.

If you want to experience a place in Xi’an where the spirit of the Tang Dynasty still feels tangible, come here. Climb the pagoda, look across the old Chang’an axis from above, and listen to the bells in the wind—then imagine speaking with the monk who stood here more than thirteen centuries ago.

A Pagoda Built for One Monk's Lifelong Mission

The story of the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda is inseparable from one extraordinary figure: Xuanzang (玄奘).

In 648, during the reign of Emperor Gaozong of the Tang Dynasty, the former Wulou Temple from the Sui Dynasty was rebuilt as Da Ci'en Temple (大慈恩寺) in memory of Empress Wende, the emperor's mother. Soon afterward, Xuanzang, who had returned from his legendary journey to India in search of Buddhist scriptures, was invited to the temple. A special translation institute was established for him, and he spent more than a decade translating Buddhist scriptures there.

Xuanzang eventually translated 74 major Buddhist works from Sanskrit and helped establish what became known as the Ci'en School, one of the major traditions of Chinese Buddhism.

But there was one problem he could not ignore.

Xuanzang had brought back 657 sets of Sanskrit scriptures, along with Buddhist statues and sacred relics. He worried that they would eventually be damaged, scattered, or destroyed by fire. He therefore petitioned the emperor for permission to build a tower specifically to protect them.

In 652, Xuanzang personally oversaw the construction of the first Giant Wild Goose Pagoda. It took two years to complete and originally consisted of five stories with an earthen core, following the architectural form of the stupa tradition of Central and South Asia.

The pagoda was later damaged and rebuilt several times. During the Chang'an era (701–704), Empress Wu Zetian and members of the imperial court financed a major reconstruction, increasing it to seven stories.

The pagoda you see today reflects extensive restoration during the Ming Dynasty.

From Xuanzang's determination to preserve the scriptures to the tower standing today, the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda is the result of more than a thousand years of rebuilding, craftsmanship, and devotion.

Climb the Pagoda and Look Across the Old Chang'an Axis

Climbing the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda is one of the most memorable experiences here.

The pagoda has seven stories, with wooden floors and internal stairways connecting each level. The staircase is narrow and steep, becoming progressively tighter as you climb higher. Every step brings you into closer contact with the ancient brickwork of the tower.

The currently accessible levels are Floors 1 to 6. From the upper levels, you can enjoy sweeping views across southern Xi’an, with the Qinling Mountains stretching across the southern horizon and the modern Xi’an skyline spreading to the north. At night, the lights of Datang Everbright City create a spectacular urban panorama below.

Several details inside the pagoda deserve a closer look.

On the second floor, you can see a gilded Buddhist statue from the Ming Dynasty. The third floor houses precious palm-leaf manuscripts, known as Buddhist pattra-leaf scriptures.

At the bottom of the pagoda, the stone lintel on the western entrance features Tang Dynasty architectural motifs and carved Buddhist images. These works are traditionally associated with the renowned Tang painters Yan Liben and Yuchi Yiseng.

On both sides of the southern entrance are brick niches containing two famous Tang Dynasty stone inscriptions written by the celebrated calligrapher Chu Suiliang: the Preface to the Holy Teachings of the Tripitaka of the Great Tang and the accompanying record of the preface.

Together, they are traditionally known as the “Two Saints and Three Wonders Stele”, celebrated for the completeness of the inscriptions and the elegance of their calligraphy.

Around 4:00 PM is an excellent time to climb the pagoda. The afternoon light is softer, making the ancient brickwork particularly atmospheric, while the higher viewpoint gives you plenty of opportunities for panoramic photographs.

From the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda to Datang Everbright City

The magic of the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda does not end with the tower itself.

The pagoda stands at the beginning of one of Xi’an's most atmospheric evening routes. Walk south and you will reach Datang Everbright City (大唐不夜城), a large pedestrian district inspired by the grandeur of the Tang Dynasty. There is no admission fee, and the area is open throughout the day.

The best way to experience the area is to start in the late afternoon.

Around 5:00 PM, enter Da Ci'en Temple and climb the pagoda. As daylight begins to fade around 6:30 PM, head toward the north square of the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda for the illuminated musical fountain show.

The fountain is promoted as one of Asia's largest matrix-style musical fountains. The water surface covers around 20,000 square meters, while the highest jets can reach approximately 60 meters.

Regular performances are commonly scheduled around 12:00, 4:00 PM, 7:00 PM, and 9:00 PM, with each show lasting about 10 minutes. The 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM evening performances are particularly atmospheric, as the illuminated fountain and the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda form a dramatic backdrop.

If you want a good view, arrive around 20 minutes early and stand somewhere around the middle levels of the viewing steps. The very front is not necessarily the best place—you may end up getting splashed.

After the fountain show, walk to the south square, where the illuminated statue of Xuanzang stands against the ancient pagoda. The symmetrical composition makes this one of the classic photo spots in the area.

Then continue south into Datang Everbright City.

Poetry-themed light columns, Tang-style sculptures and street performances fill the pedestrian street. Interactive performances such as “The Grand Tang Secret Box” and the popular “Tang Dynasty Spinning Lady” shows gradually begin in the evening.

There is no ticket, no reservation, and no need to enter a traditional attraction.

The Tang Dynasty comes alive simply by walking through the street.

Travel Tips for the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda

Best Time to Visit

Spring and autumn (March–May and September–November) offer the most comfortable weather.

November is particularly beautiful, when the ginkgo trees along Ci'en West Road turn golden, creating an especially photogenic combination of yellow foliage, gray brick and the ancient pagoda.

After rain, clear skies can also produce beautiful reflections of the pagoda.

In summer, consider visiting after 5:00 PM to avoid the strongest midday heat.

Opening Hours

During the peak season (March 1–November 30), the site is generally open from 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM, with ticket sales ending at 5:30 PM.

During the low season (December 1–the end of February), opening hours are generally 8:00 AM–6:00 PM, with ticket sales ending at 5:00 PM.

The site is normally closed on Mondays, except during public holidays.

How to Get There

Take Xi'an Metro Line 3 or Line 4 to Giant Wild Goose Pagoda Station and leave through Exit C or D. The south square is about a five-minute walk away.

If driving, parking at nearby shopping malls is often more convenient. Parking around the north square can become difficult during busy periods.

Recommended Evening Route

For an afternoon-and-evening visit without unnecessary backtracking:

Giant Wild Goose Pagoda North Square → Da Ci'en Temple → climb the pagoda → Giant Wild Goose Pagoda South Square → Xuanzang Statue → Datang Everbright City → Kaiyuan Square

Allow approximately 3–4 hours for the complete experience.

Photography Tips

📸 North Square: Stand on the middle viewing steps to capture the musical fountain and Giant Wild Goose Pagoda in the same frame.

📸 South Square: The Xuanzang statue is ideal for symmetrical compositions with the pagoda in the background.

📸 Grandjoy City rooftop viewing platform: The fourth-floor viewing area offers a broad panorama of the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda and Datang Everbright City.

📸 Tang Da Ci'en Temple Heritage Park: Red walls and the pagoda create a more traditional composition, and the area is generally less crowded.

For clothing, simple colors, modern Chinese-style outfits, or Hanfu work particularly well against the Tang-inspired surroundings.

Practical Advice

During major holidays, it is advisable to make a reservation through the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda Cultural and Leisure Scenic Area official WeChat account in advance. Tickets can become difficult to obtain at the last minute.

The staircase inside the pagoda is steep, so wear comfortable flat shoes.

The fountain may have maintenance periods, including some Tuesday midday sessions, so check the day's schedule before setting out.

Be cautious of people approaching visitors outside the attraction and offering unusually cheap private guiding services. If you want a guide, use an official or clearly licensed service.

What to Eat Around the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda

Xi'an's famous street food makes an excellent ending to an evening around the pagoda.

• Ziwu Road Zhangji Roujiamo — Famous for its Xi'an-style meat-filled flatbread.
• Guo Laosan Noodle Restaurant — Try the spicy youpo noodles with garlic.
• Shan Shisan (陕拾叁) — Known for creative local-flavored ice cream and Xi'an-inspired desserts.
• Weizhuoyin (薇酌饮) at Grandjoy City — A convenient choice for dinner with a view, combining osmanthus rice wine with local specialties such as gourd chicken.

Expect roughly RMB 50–100 per person for a full meal at a mid-range restaurant.

A Tang Dynasty Landmark That Still Lives With Xi'an

From the first bricks laid under Xuanzang's supervision in 652 to the 64.5-meter-high tower visitors see today, the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda has witnessed more than thirteen centuries of change.

From Xuanzang's fear that the scriptures he had brought back would be scattered or destroyed, to the seven-story pagoda that continues to dominate the skyline; from the musical fountain lighting up the square at night to the Tang-inspired streets stretching south toward Datang Everbright City—the entire area tells a story that connects one monk, one dynasty and one modern city.

The Giant Wild Goose Pagoda is more than an ancient tower.

It is the resting place of the scriptures that Xuanzang spent a lifetime bringing back from India. It is a monument built and rebuilt by generations of craftsmen. And it is one of the clearest surviving symbols of the spiritual and cultural legacy of Tang Dynasty Chang'an.

If you want to find a place in Xi'an where the spirit of the Tang Dynasty still feels within reach, come to the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda.

Here, the tower was built for Xuanzang. The bricks have witnessed more than 1,300 years of history. And when you stand above the city, looking across the skyline of modern Xi'an, you are standing in the same place where a monk once translated the scriptures that changed the history of Chinese Buddhism.