Home / Travel Blog / Blog Details
Forget the frantic energy of Xi’an’s Muslim Quarter for a moment. Step away from the world-famous Terracotta Army. There is another, quieter side to this ancient capital, one that whispers of scholarly pursuits, spiritual devotion, and a time when this city was the eastern terminus of the Silk Road. Nestled within the serene grounds of the Jianfu Temple, the Small Wild Goose Pagoda (Xiǎoyàn Tǎ) stands not as a mere monument, but as a living chronicle of resilience.
While its larger sibling, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, often grabs the headlines, the Small Wild Goose Pagoda offers a more intimate and contemplative experience. It’s a place where history isn’t just seen; it’s felt in the cool shade of its courtyards and heard in the distant chime of bells. This isn't just a pagoda to photograph; it's a sanctuary to experience.
Constructed between 707 and 709 AD during the Tang Dynasty, the pagoda was originally built to house the Buddhist sutras brought back from India by the traveling monk Yi Jing. Unlike the square, brick-heavy structure of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, this one is a masterpiece of elegant, multi-eaved brick construction. Soaring to 43 meters (141 feet), it was originally 45 meters tall, a fact that hints at its incredible story.
The most remarkable feature of the Small Wild Goose Pagoda is its survival through a massive earthquake in 1556. The quake shook the very foundations of Shaanxi, causing the top two levels of the pagoda to collapse. But the main body of the structure held firm. Look closely, and you can still see the vertical crack running up its side—a scar from that fateful day. Local legend has it that the pagoda "opened up" during the quake and then miraculously "closed" again overnight. While geologists offer more scientific explanations involving its flexible, rounded base, the story adds a layer of mystical charm to this enduring icon.
Your journey to the pagoda is as important as the destination itself. The entire area is now part of the Jianfu Temple complex, a beautifully landscaped park that serves as a peaceful oasis in the heart of the modern city.
As you wander through the complex, you will inevitably be drawn to the magnificent Bell Tower. Inside hangs a massive iron bell from the Jin Dynasty (1115-1234 AD). This is no ordinary bell; it’s the star of one of Xi’an’s most beloved traditions, the "Morning Bell Chime." For a small fee, visitors can strike the bell with a large wooden log. The deep, resonant sound is said to bring good fortune and peace. It’s a popular activity, and the sound of the bell echoing across the temple grounds is a quintessential part of the Small Wild Goose Pagoda experience.
Adjacent to the temple complex is the excellent Xi'an Museum. This is a highly recommended stop, often overlooked by tourists rushing to other sites. The museum provides crucial context, showcasing a stunning collection of relics from Xi’an’s 3,100-year history, including beautiful Buddhist statues, intricate pottery, and historical maps. Seeing these artifacts helps you understand the profound cultural and religious significance of the pagoda you’ve just visited. It connects the dots, transforming the pagoda from a solitary structure into a central piece of Xi’an’s grand historical narrative.
A trip to the Small Wild Goose Pagoda is perfectly positioned for exploring some of Xi’an’s other major attractions. It’s a hub that connects ancient history with vibrant modern culture.
One of the most popular and rewarding ways to spend a day in southern Xi’an is to combine a morning at the Small Wild Goose Pagoda and the Xi’an Museum with an afternoon at the nearby Shaanxi History Museum. The Shaanxi History Museum is often called "the pearl of ancient dynasties" and houses a collection that rivals any national museum. By visiting the more intimate Xi’an Museum first, you build a foundational understanding that makes the grandeur of the Shaanxi History Museum even more impressive.
After a day of historical immersion, take a leisurely stroll through the surrounding parks. Locals gather here to practice tai chi, dance, fly kites, and play chess. It’s a fantastic opportunity for people-watching and glimpsing the daily life of Xi’an residents outside the main tourist zones.
The Small Wild Goose Pagoda is located just a short taxi or metro ride from the southern section of the magnificent Xi’an City Wall. This makes it incredibly easy to plan a multi-faceted day. You can explore the spiritual and historical calm of the pagoda in the morning and then rent a bicycle to cycle along the top of the 14th-century fortifications in the afternoon, getting a completely different perspective on the city.
The pagoda and its park are beautiful year-round, but they are particularly stunning in the spring when the cherry blossoms and peonies are in full bloom, and in the autumn when the ginkgo trees turn a brilliant gold. To avoid the largest crowds, aim for a weekday morning. The light for photography is also best in the early morning or late afternoon.
Xi’an’s metro system is efficient and easy to navigate. Take Line 2 and get off at Nanshaomen Station (Exit A1 or A2). From there, it’s a pleasant 10-minute walk to the park’s entrance. Numerous public buses also stop nearby.
Entry to the Jianfu Temple park requires a ticket, which is very reasonably priced. There is an additional, separate fee if you wish to climb the pagoda itself. Be warned: the climb is steep, via a narrow, dark, and winding wooden staircase. It is not recommended for those with mobility issues, claustrophobia, or a fear of heights. However, for those who make the ascent, the view from the top—looking out over the temple roofs and the modern city skyline—is a powerful and rewarding experience.
Remember to wear comfortable shoes and carry water, especially in the summer. Allow at least two to three hours to fully explore the temple grounds, the pagoda, and the surrounding gardens at a relaxed pace.
The Small Wild Goose Pagoda is more than just an alternative to its bigger counterpart. It is a testament to architectural genius, a sanctuary of peace, and a gateway to understanding the layered history of one of China’s greatest cities. In its quiet shadow, you don’t just learn about history; you stand in the middle of it.
Copyright Statement:
Author: Xian Travel
Link: https://xiantravel.github.io/travel-blog/a-visitors-guide-to-the-small-wild-goose-pagoda-in-xian.htm
Source: Xian Travel
The copyright of this article belongs to the author. Reproduction is not allowed without permission.