How long does it take to walk between these temples?

The total duration is approximately 2 to 3 hours including stops. While some stops are within walking distance, such as the City God Temple and the City Wall areas, you may want to use a short taxi ride or metro hop between the Small Wild Goose Pagoda and Qinglong Temple to save time.

Is it worth visiting the Small Wild Goose Pagoda?

Yes, it is absolutely worth it for those interested in history and architecture. Unlike the larger Big Wild Goose Pagoda, this site is typically less crowded and is located within a beautiful, quiet park that also houses the Xian Museum.

Can I enter the temples during prayer times?

Yes, you can generally enter during prayer times, but you must remain respectful. Avoid taking photos of the monks, priests, or the interior of the altars during rituals, and keep your voice low.

Are there entry fees for these temples?

Some temples like Daxingshan are free, while others like Baxianan or Guangren may charge a small fee of 5-10 RMB. The Small Wild Goose Pagoda grounds are usually free but require showing a passport or ID at the gate.

What is the best time to visit the temples in Xian?

Morning is the best time, ideally starting around 8:30 AM. This allows you to see the morning rituals and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere before the afternoon heat and potential crowds arrive.

Is this walking route suitable for seniors?

The route is moderate as it involves several stops, but the terrain is mostly flat. Seniors should be aware that traditional Chinese temples have high door thresholds that require stepping over, which may be challenging for those with limited mobility.

Where can I find food along this route?

Daxingshan Temple has a well-regarded vegetarian restaurant. Additionally, the area around Baxianan has many local eateries serving traditional Shaanxi noodles and snacks.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Beyond the shadow of the massive City Wall and the famous Terracotta Army, Xian holds a quieter, more profound legacy. This self-guided walk invites you to explore the spiritual heart of the city, moving through centuries of religious history that defined the eastern terminus of the Silk Road. While most visitors flock to the Muslim Quarter, this neighborhood stroll through the Lianhu and Beilin districts reveals the hidden sanctuaries where Buddhist monks and Taoist priests have practiced for over a millennium. You will encounter the only Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Shaanxi province, a pagoda that has survived dozens of earthquakes, and the birthplace of esoteric Buddhism. This walking route is designed for those who seek tranquility and a deeper understanding of the local culture, away from the typical tourist crowds. As you move between these sacred spaces, you will observe the daily rituals of locals and the architectural evolution from the Tang Dynasty to the Qing Dynasty. This experience is more than just a sightseeing trip; it is an independent journey into the diverse beliefs that have coexisted within these ancient walls for generations. By choosing this self-guided adventure, you can linger in the incense-filled courtyards or find a quiet corner for reflection at your own pace. Whether you are interested in the intricate art of Tibetan statues or the philosophical depths of Taoism, this path offers a unique perspective on a walking tour Xian. It is a chance to see the city not just as a historical relic, but as a living, breathing center of faith and tradition.

Highlights

The golden-roofed Tibetan halls of Guangren Temple

The resilient architecture of the Small Wild Goose Pagoda

The birthplace of Chinese Esoteric Buddhism at Daxingshan Temple

Vibrant Taoist rituals at the Eight Immortals Abbey

Kukai's legacy and cherry blossoms at Qinglong Temple

The intricate Ming-style architecture of the City God Temple

Tour Stops (6)

Guangren Temple

Welcome to the only Tibetan Buddhist temple in Shaanxi province. Built in 1703 by the Kangxi Emperor of the Qing Dynasty, this temple served as a peaceful residence for grand lamas traveling from Tibet to Beijing. As you walk through the gate, notice the distinct Tibetan style: the golden roofs and the prayer wheels. The temple houses a precious statue of the 12-year-old Sakyamuni, a replica of the one in Lhasa's Jokhang Temple. The atmosphere here is a stark contrast to the surrounding city, offering a unique blend of Han and Tibetan architectural influences that symbolize the historical union of China's diverse cultures.

Du City God Temple

Located near the bustling West Street, the City God Temple is one of the three most important Taoist temples in China. Since the Ming Dynasty, this site has been the spiritual 'governor' of Xian's urban life. Look up at the magnificent three-story wooden archway at the entrance, which was built without a single nail. Inside, the complex is a maze of halls dedicated to various Taoist deities who oversee justice and protection for the city. It is a vibrant place where folk religion meets architectural grandeur, often hosting traditional markets and fairs in its outer courtyards.

Small Wild Goose Pagoda

This elegant structure is a masterpiece of Tang Dynasty architecture. Built in 707 AD to house Buddhist scriptures brought from India, the Small Wild Goose Pagoda is famous for its resilience. It has survived over 70 earthquakes. Legend has it that a massive crack opened in the pagoda during a 16th-century quake, only for another earthquake years later to 'heal' it by shaking the bricks back into place. Surrounding the pagoda is the Jianfu Temple garden, a peaceful park where you can see locals practicing tai chi or calligraphy. The site is a UNESCO World Heritage landmark, representing the height of the Silk Road’s cultural exchange.

Daxingshan Temple

Daxingshan Temple is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Xian, dating back to the Jin Dynasty. However, it reached its peak during the Tang Dynasty as the birthplace of Chinese Esoteric Buddhism (Mizong). Three great Indian monks translated Buddhist sutras here, turning Xian into a global center for spiritual study. The temple layout is classic and symmetrical, featuring a beautiful vegetarian restaurant and quiet ponds. It remains an active site of worship; you will likely see monks in saffron robes moving between the halls. It is a perfect spot to observe the continuity of Buddhist tradition in modern China.

Qinglong Temple

Situated on the Leyou Heights, Qinglong Temple played a pivotal role in the spread of Buddhism to Japan. In the 9th century, the Japanese monk Kukai (Kobo Daishi) studied here before returning home to found the Shingon sect. Today, the temple is a symbol of Sino-Japanese friendship. While the original structures were destroyed, the modern reconstruction reflects Tang aesthetics. The grounds are famous for thousands of cherry trees, a gift from Japan, which transform the temple into a pink wonderland every spring. Even outside of blossom season, the elevated position offers a sense of seclusion and history.

Baxianan (Eight Immortals Abbey)

Our final stop is the largest Taoist temple in Xian. Legend says it was built on the site where the legendary Eight Immortals were spotted drinking in a wine shop. This is a working abbey where you can often see Taoist priests with their traditional topknots. The complex is divided into three sections, filled with steles, ancient pines, and halls decorated with Taoist symbols like the bagua. Just outside the temple gates is a famous antiques and flea market. It is the perfect place to end your walk, soaking in the atmosphere of local folklore and the scent of burning sandalwood.

Frequently Asked Questions

This self-guided walk through the city's temples is widely considered the best way to see Xian's hidden gems. It takes you away from the tourist-heavy Muslim Quarter to serene spots like Guangren Temple and Baxianan Abbey, which many travelers miss.