Small Wild Goose Pagoda
The Small Wild Goose Pagoda, located within the Jianfu Temple in Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China, is a well-preserved Buddhist pagoda from the Tang Dynasty. Built between 707 and 709 AD during the reign of Emperor Zhongzong, the pagoda originally stood at 45 meters with 15 stories but was reduced to 43 meters with 13 stories due to earthquake damage. The pagoda is renowned for its elegant design and historical significance, offering insights into ancient Chinese architecture and Buddhism.
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72 Youyi W Rd, Beilin District, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
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Small Wild Goose Pagoda: A Tang Dynasty Gem in Xi'an
The Small Wild Goose Pagoda, located within the Jianfu Temple in Xi'an, is a well-preserved Buddhist pagoda from the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD). Built between 707 and 709 AD, it is renowned for its elegant design, historical significance, and its ability to withstand several earthquakes. It offers insights into ancient Chinese architecture and Buddhism, and is part of the Xi'an Museum complex.
What to See and Do
Admire the Pagoda: The pagoda originally stood at 45 meters with 15 stories but was reduced to 43 meters with 13 stories due to earthquake damage. Its graceful silhouette and brick construction are characteristic of Tang Dynasty pagodas. You can climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Jianfu Temple: The pagoda is part of the Jianfu Temple complex, an ancient Buddhist temple with a serene atmosphere. Explore its halls and courtyards, which provide a peaceful retreat from the city bustle.
Xi'an Museum: The pagoda is located within the grounds of the Xi'an Museum. Your ticket to the pagoda area usually includes access to the museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts from Xi'an's rich history.
Morning Bell: The "Morning Bell of the Small Wild Goose Pagoda" is one of the "Eight Scenic Spots of Guanzhong" (the area around Xi'an). You might hear the bell ringing during certain times, adding to the historical ambiance.
Shadow Play and Puppet Show: The museum complex sometimes hosts traditional shadow play or puppet shows, offering a glimpse into Chinese folk art.
Best Time to Visit
The pagoda and museum are suitable for visiting year-round. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends and public holidays. Arrive early to make the most of your visit.
How to Get There
The Small Wild Goose Pagoda is located on Youyi West Road. Take Metro Line 2 to Nanshaomen Station (南稍门站) and then walk west for about 15 minutes, or take a short taxi ride. Several bus routes also stop near the site.
Travel Tips
Allow ample time: Plan for at least 2-3 hours to explore the pagoda, temple, and the Xi'an Museum.
Wear comfortable shoes: You'll be doing a fair amount of walking and climbing stairs if you ascend the pagoda.
Free admission: Admission to the pagoda area and museum is usually free, but you might need to show your passport or ID for entry.
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Related attractions
Giant Wild Goose Pagoda Music Fountain Square
Located at the foot of the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda in Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda Square is a renowned cultural and tourist destination. The square is divided into several sections: North Square: Known for its grand musical fountain, the North Square is one of the largest of its kind in Asia. The central axis features a main waterway, flanked by areas such as the Tang Poetry Garden, the Dharma Flower Terrace, and the Meditation Forest. The musical fountain performances, especially enchanting at night with illuminated displays, are a major attraction. BAIKE.BAIDU.COM East and West Pedestrian Streets: Situated on either side of the Daci'en Temple, these streets showcase sculptures depicting scenes from Tang Dynasty daily life, including "People Celebrating Longevity," "Shadow Puppet Theater," and "Street Music." The lifelike sculptures offer a glimpse into the prosperity and culture of the Tang era. The streets are also lined with shops selling various souvenirs and local crafts. VACATION.EZTRAVEL.COM.TW South Square: Located in front of the Daci'en Temple, the South Square emphasizes Buddhist culture, featuring a prominent statue of the monk Xuanzang. The area is complemented by gardens, water features, and bridges, making it a popular spot for relaxation among locals and tourists alike.
Mount Hua
Mount Hua, located in Huayin City, Shaanxi Province, China, is one of the country's Five Great Mountains and is renowned for its steep and perilous peaks. The mountain comprises five main peaks: North Peak (Cloud Terrace Peak), East Peak (Facing Sun Peak), South Peak (Landing Wild Goose Peak), West Peak (Lotus Flower Peak), and Middle Peak (Jade Maiden Peak). Each peak offers unique landscapes and has its own historical and cultural significance. Mount Hua is also a significant site in Taoist history, housing numerous temples and religious structures. The mountain's challenging trails, such as the "Plank Road in the Sky" and "Thousand-Foot Precipice," attract adventurers seeking thrilling experiences. The breathtaking scenery, combined with its rich cultural heritage, makes Mount Hua a must-visit destination for travelers.
Stele Forest Museum
The Stele Forest Museum, located in Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China, is renowned for its extensive collection of ancient stone steles and sculptures. Established in 1087 during the Northern Song Dynasty, the museum was initially built to preserve the "Kaicheng Stone Classics" and the "Stone Tablet of Filial Piety." Over the centuries, the collection expanded, and in 1992, it was officially named the Stele Forest Museum due to the vast number of steles it houses. Today, the museum boasts nearly 3,000 steles, making it the largest collection in China. The exhibits span various dynasties, with a significant emphasis on pieces from the Tang Dynasty. Visitors can explore seven exhibition halls showcasing Chinese calligraphy, historical records, and stone sculptures, offering a profound insight into China's rich cultural and artistic heritage.
Shuyuanmen Cultural Street
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Daci'en Temple
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