Giant Wild Goose Pagoda — The "Cultural Code" of Xi'an Tourism

Whispers of History: The Past and Present of the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda “The tower rises like a surge, standing tall and solitary against the heavenly palace.” Only by standing before the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda can one truly appreciate the poetic imagery of this line. Located within the Da Ci'en Temple in Xi'an, the pagoda was first built in the third year of Emperor Gaozong’s Yonghui era (652 AD) and has a history of over 1,300 years. It was constructed to house the Buddhist statues, relics, and Sanskrit scriptures brought back by the monk Xuanzang from India, carrying the legacy of Buddhist culture and historical memory. Entering the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda is like opening an ancient history book. Inside, Buddhist statues, relics, and palm-leaf scriptures are enshrined, telling the story of Xuanzang’s arduous and heroic journey to obtain Buddhist scriptures. On both sides of the south gate on the ground floor are the “Two Saints and Three Masterpieces Steles,” treasures of calligraphy and history. The “Preface to the Sacred Teachings of the Tripitaka of the Great Tang” stele was written by Emperor Taizong of Tang, Li Shimin, and calligraphed by Chu Suiliang; the “Record of the Preface to the Sacred Teachings of the Tripitaka of the Great Tang” stele was written by Emperor Gaozong of Tang, Li Zhi, and also calligraphed by Chu Suiliang. These steles document Xuanzang’s legendary experiences and the spread of Buddhism. Nearby Activities: One-Stop Check-In at Popular Attractions Da Ci'en Temple, located at the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, was a royal temple during the Tang Dynasty. Tickets cost around 30 yuan, with half price for students. The temple is quaint and elegant, with the Mahavira Hall solemn and majestic. The Xuanzang Tripitaka Courtyard enshrines the top skull relic of Master Xuanzang, creating a strong Buddhist atmosphere. It is recommended to reserve 1.5 to 2 hours for a visit. The afternoon is ideal for capturing panoramic views of the pagoda. On Wednesday afternoons, there is a free sutra chanting event inside the temple (quiet attendance required). The music fountain at the North Square of the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda is the largest in Asia and is free to visit. Performances are held at 12:00, 16:00, 19:00, and 21:00 on weekdays, with more shows on weekends and holidays. When the music plays, the water jets dance to the rhythm, complementing the pagoda in a stunning display. Be sure to arrive half an hour early to secure a good spot. Photo Tips: 100% Success Rate Check-In Spots When visiting the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, taking photos is a must! Here are some excellent spots guaranteed to produce stunning shots that will blow up your social media 📸 The South Square of the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda is perfect for panoramic shots. The square offers a great view, surrounded by green trees, with the statue of Master Xuanzang in the center framed alongside the pagoda, creating a rich cultural atmosphere. At sunset, the warm light on the pagoda is beautiful and perfect for silhouette photos. The elevated viewpoint at Gate 3 of Dayue City offers a unique perspective overlooking the red walls and the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda. At night, the city lights complement the ancient pagoda, making every shot photogenic. The Ci'en Temple Ruins Park, adjacent to the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, harmoniously blends nature with ancient architecture. In late spring and early summer, blooming flowers make it ideal for those who love fresh, natural-style photos, using flowers as the foreground for the pagoda, creating a poetic scene. Recommended Nearby Hotel: Xi'an Bell Tower Meilie Hotel 🏨 Rooms: Starting at 40㎡, spacious and bright. The design blends classical culture with modern art, combining old wood with marble for a high-end feel. Equipped with Marshall speakers, Dyson hairdryers, and soft, comfortable bedding for a pleasant stay 🛏 Offers 24-hour butler service, quick check-in, and assistance with itinerary planning and local food recommendations. Breakfast can be delivered to the room, featuring a unique blend of Chinese and Western dishes, served until 12 noon. 🍹 Facilities: The rooftop infinity pool on the 17th floor overlooks the Bell Tower business district, perfect for photo ops. The top floor also has a whiskey bar with a strong ambiance. The tea room offers a rich variety of afternoon teas for a leisurely experience.