Lesser-Known, More Rewarding

Discover Xi’an’s Small Wild Goose Pagoda and Museum

In Xi’an, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda is on nearly every traveler’s checklist. But just a short distance away stands a quieter, often overlooked treasure: the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, a graceful Tang-dynasty tower nestled inside the serene grounds of the Xi’an Museum.

A Tower with a Thousand-Year Story

Built in 707 AD during the Tang Dynasty, the Small Wild Goose Pagoda—originally part of Jianfu Temple—was constructed to store Buddhist scriptures brought back from India by the monk Yijing. Unlike its larger cousin, this 13-tiered brick pagoda is modest and elegant, embodying a quiet strength that has endured earthquakes, war, and time. In fact, it famously cracked during a powerful quake—then mysteriously sealed itself years later. Locals call it a “self-healing tower.”

Standing beneath it, it’s hard not to be moved by its calm presence. It doesn’t try to impress—but it leaves a lasting impression.

More Than a Pagoda: The Xi’an Museum

While many come for the pagoda, they stay for the Xi’an Museum, a hidden gem in its own right. With a design inspired by the traditional Chinese concept of “round sky, square earth,” the museum blends seamlessly with the surrounding historical architecture. Inside, you’ll find more than 130,000 artifacts spanning from the Zhou and Qin dynasties all the way to the Ming and Qing.

 

The exhibits are well-curated, covering imperial life, religious art, and everyday objects that make Xi’an’s history feel real and relatable.

Better yet, your free reservation gives you access to both the museum and the pagoda grounds, making it one of the most rewarding stops in the city.

🌟 Top Highlights

  • Ruins of Jianfu Temple
    Tucked in a quiet corner of the grounds, these stone foundations and broken columns are all that remain of the once-grand Tang dynasty royal temple. If you’re interested in Buddhist history or archaeology, this is a quiet but powerful stop.
  • The “Tang Life Room” (Immersive Gallery)
    One of the most engaging exhibits inside the museum, this section recreates scenes from daily life in the Tang Dynasty using actual artifacts and digital projections. It’s interactive and great for visitors of all ages.
  • Pagoda Reflection Pool
    Right in front of the Small Wild Goose Pagoda is a still water pool where the entire tower reflects on a clear day. It’s a favorite photo spot, especially in the morning light.
  • Wishing Tree Walk
    Along a quiet path, you’ll find red ribbons and wooden prayer tags tied to trees. Whether you’re spiritual or just sentimental, leaving a wish here has become a favorite visitor ritual.

Plan Your Visit

📍Address: No. 72 Youyi West Road, Beilin District, Xi’an
🚇 Metro: Line 2 or Line 5 to Nanshaomen Station, Exit F, then walk 500 meters
🚗 Driving: Navigate to “Xi’an Museum” – a large paid parking lot is available on-site

🎟 Admission: Free (reservation required via the Xi’an Museum official WeChat account; booking opens daily at 6:00 PM for the next 7 days)
🕒 Opening Hours:

  • Open Wednesday to Monday; closed Tuesdays
  • Summer hours (July 5 – Aug 31): 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM (last entry at 6:00 PM)

📌Suggested visit duration: Around 2.5 to 3 hours
🍽 Food options: After your visit, walk to nearby Zhongmao Plaza near Nanshaomen Station—it’s packed with local eats and international bites.