The Big Wild Goose Pagoda

When I travel, I don't generally sign up for organized tours. I prefer to visit places at my own pace and I often like to take the time wander around finding different and unusual angles for my photography. But due to the time limitations involved with this trip and the difficult logistics getting to and from some of the major attractions, we signed up for an all day tour to include the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, the Huaqing Hot Springs and the Terra Cotta Warriors and Horses Museum.

The first stop on our tour was the Big Wild Goose Pagoda (Da Yan Ta) and the Da Ci'en Temple, built at the request of the famous Buddhist monk, Xuan Zang, by Emperor Gaozong in 652 A.D. It is surrounded by beautiful gardens containing stella and statues, out-buildings, and delicate pagodas. Climbing the stairs to the top of the 7 story structure provides an excellent view of the temple and the city.

Be sure to spend time wandering the side gardens and admiring the various out-buildings. There are many, many beautiful details scattered around the grounds of the temple.

I have read and was told by locals that there is a very impressive night-time light and music display in the large fountain square outside the North end of the temple. I planned to attend on several different nights during my stay, but something else (sometimes the rainy weather) always seemed to change my plans. I guess that experience will have to wait until my next visit.

Ticket for the Big Wild Goose Pagoda