The Big Wild Goose Pagoda is one of Xi’an’s most famous landmarks, representing China’s deep Buddhist history and its role as a key stop on the Silk Road. Built during the Tang Dynasty, it has stood for over 1,300 years, serving as a sacred site for Buddhist scripture storage and translation.
History & Significance of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda in Xi’an
- Built for Buddhist Scripture Storage (652 AD)
The Big Wild Goose Pagoda was built in 652 AD during the Tang Dynasty by Emperor Gaozong. It was constructed to house Buddhist scriptures and relics brought from India by Monk Xuanzang, whose journey inspired the famous novel Journey to the West.
- Tang Dynasty Architectural Marvel
Originally 60 meters tall with 5 stories, later expanded to 64 meters with 7 stories. It was built from rammed earth and bricks, without cement or reinforcements.
This Pagoda has survived earthquakes and wars for over 1,300 years.
- Connection to the Silk Road
Xi’an was the starting point of the Silk Road, and the pagoda played a crucial role in the spread of Buddhism from India to China.
What to See & Do at the Big Wild Goose Pagoda
Climb the Pagoda: Seven floors, 297 steps to the top and panoramic views of Xi’an from the top.
Visit Da Ci’en Temple: The temple complex surrounding the pagoda. It is home to ancient Buddhist statues and inscriptions.
Watch the Musical Fountain Show: One of Asia’s largest musical fountains in the square outside.
- Best viewed at night when the pagoda is illuminated.
Explore the Tang Culture Area at the Tang Paradise Theme Park: A cultural park showcasing Tang Dynasty life, performances, and architecture.
How to visit Xi’an Big Wild Goose Pagoda
How to get to Xi’an Big Wild Goose Pagoda
By Metro
- Line 3 or Line 4: Get off at Dayanta Station (Exit C).
By Bus: Bus 5, 19, 21, 24, 27, 30, 41, 44, 224, 237, 271, 307 stop at Big Wild Goose Pagoda.
By Taxi: Tell the driver “大雁塔 (Dàyàn Tǎ)”.
Location
Address: Yanta District, Xi’an, Shaanxi Province
What to visit nearby:
- Shaanxi History Museum (5-minute drive)
- Xi’an City Wall (20-minute drive)
- Muslim Quarter (25-minute drive)
Opening Hours
Pagoda & Temple Complex:
- March–November: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- December–February: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Musical fountain show:
- Daily: 12:00 PM & 8:30 PM (summer), 8:00 PM (winter)
- Friday & Saturday: Additional show at 9:00 PM
Ticket Prices
- Temple Complex Only: 30 CNY
- Temple + Climbing the Pagoda: 60 CNY
- Children under 1.2m: Free
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March–May) & Autumn (September–November): Comfortable weather for sightseeing.
- Evening: Best for the fountain show and night lighting.
