Giant Wild Goose Pagoda
Shaanxi Sheng
The Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, located in Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, is a renowned Buddhist pagoda originally built in 652 during the Tang dynasty. It was constructed to house Buddhist sutras and figurines brought from India by the famous monk Xuanzang. The pagoda stands as a symbol of the spread of Buddhism in China and is a key cultural and religious landmark. Architecturally, it is a brick structure with a square base and originally had five stories, later rebuilt to seven. Its design reflects Tang dynasty styles with a solid, austere appearance. The pagoda is part of the Daci'en Temple complex and has been restored and preserved through centuries, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike. It is recognized for its historical importance and contribution to Chinese Buddhist heritage. The site offers visitors insight into ancient Chinese religious architecture and the historical Silk Road cultural exchanges.
Plan your trip to China, People's Republic of with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: The best time to visit the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild and pleasant. Visitors are advised to purchase tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons to avoid long queues. There are often discounts available for students, seniors, and groups. Early morning visits provide a quieter experience for photography and reflection. The pagoda is accessible by public transportation and is well-signposted for tourists.
Interesting facts
- •The pagoda was built to house over 600 Buddhist scriptures and figurines brought from India by Xuanzang.
- •It originally had five stories but was rebuilt to seven stories during the Ming dynasty restoration.
- •The Giant Wild Goose Pagoda is part of the larger Daci'en Temple complex, one of the most important Buddhist temples in China.
- •It is a UNESCO World Heritage site as part of the Silk Roads: the Routes Network of Chang'an-Tianshan Corridor.
- •The pagoda served as a key site for the translation and dissemination of Buddhist texts in medieval China.
History
The Giant Wild Goose Pagoda was originally constructed in 652 AD during the Tang dynasty under Emperor Gaozong to store sacred Buddhist texts brought from India by the monk Xuanzang.
The pagoda has undergone several renovations, including a significant reconstruction in the Ming dynasty that increased its height and altered its structure.
Over centuries, it has remained a central Buddhist monument and a symbol of Xi'an's historical role as a cultural and religious hub along the Silk Road.
Place Guide
Main Pagoda Tower652 AD
The central structure of the site, originally built in 652 AD, featuring seven stories with a square base and brick construction. Visitors can climb inside to view ancient architectural details and enjoy panoramic views from the upper levels.
Daci'en Temple ComplexTang dynasty (7th century)
The temple surrounding the pagoda, established to support Buddhist worship and monastic activities. It includes halls, statues, and gardens reflecting Tang dynasty religious architecture.
Contact
Phone: 029 8552 7958