Xi’an Pagodas(1277 views)

Release date:2010-02-22 09:57:53

It is true that many visitors to Xi’an will spend only a short time there, perhaps only as a brief stop to see the Terracotta Warriors. In fact there are many other historical sites to see in the area, which are very easy to get to. Aside from the city wall, the Bell Tower and the Drum Tower, there are other famous local landmarks that should be on the itinerary of any visitor to Xi’an. In particular these include the Big and Small Wild Goose Pagodas.

While both of these pagodas are easily accessible, both lying in the south of the city, they are actually in quite separate areas. The Small Wild Goose Pagoda is usually quiet, with relatively few visitors. It is set in its own grounds, and to gain entry here commands a small fee. Once inside you can stroll around the park area before climbing up inside the pagoda via small wooden steps (mind your head on the low ceilings!), onto the very top, which allows a nice view of the surrounding area.

The pagoda has had a somewhat troubled history, after being split down the middle by an earthquake in 1556. Fortunately it has been lovingly repaired and almost restored to its former glory. I like to think that its slightly dishevelled look just adds to its authenticity! After looking around this area you may also wish to check out the Shaanxi history museum that is nearby.

The Big Wild Goose Pagoda is somewhat different to its little cousin, not only in size but also in its environment. Originally built to hold sacred Buddhist sutras brought to China from India, it is, as the name suggests, rather large in stature, dominating the entire surrounding area. Also damaged in the 1556 earthquake, the pagoda is currently three stories shorter than it previously was, and still leans slightly to the west.

At the ‘front’ of the pagoda (as you approach it from the north) is a large area that has been turned into a water fountain show. Every day in the afternoon and evening (check nearby signs for the seasonal time schedules) a water show with lights and music is provided for all passers-by, and attracts rather high numbers of people during national holidays and the hotter summer months when people are not too concerned about being sprayed, since it offers a pleasant respite from the sometimes stifling heat. While this show is free, access to the pagoda itself is not. To get a closer look at the pagoda, you just walk around the side to the southern wall of its compound, where you can buy a ticket to gain entry to the grounds. Once inside the grounds you can also climb up inside the pagoda itself to experience the great view of the city.

The area around the Big Wild Goose Pagoda has undergone a great deal of development recently, though, thankfully, the style of all the new buildings is distinctly Chinese so it adds to rather than spoils the atmosphere there. New developments include a performance hall that hosts everything from circuses to symphony orchestras, and an art exhibition centre, alongside the food stalls, restaurants and coffee shops.

Situated just to the east of the pagoda is a beautiful park, where it is definitely recommended that you spend a little time relaxing. If you get the timing right you might just find yourself walking amongst clouds of pink blossoms as they float before your eyes, and you can write wishes, seal them in red envelopes, and hang them on the trees.

If you plan a trip to the Wild Goose Pagodas, you should probably expect to climb some steps, certainly expect to get some awesome photographs, and definitely take home some great memories.

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