Xi’an top Attractions: Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, Ancient City Wall & Grand Tang Mall

For many travelers, Xi’an is a city where history comes alive, blending ancient culture with modern life. To truly experience the essence of this legendary city, a visit to its top attractions is a must: the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, the Xi’an Ancient City Wall, and the Grand Tang Mall.

Known as the starting point of the Silk Road and the ancient capital of Chang’an, Xi’an was once described by Marco Polo as the “world’s largest city.” Together, these landmarks offer a journey through history, culture, and modern creativity—a complete immersion in the spirit of the Tang Dynasty.

Giant Wild Goose Pagoda: A Spiritual and Cultural Landmark

The Giant Wild Goose Pagoda (Dayan Pagoda), built in 652 CE during the Tang Dynasty, is one of Xi’an’s most iconic sites. It was originally constructed for the Buddhist monk Xuanzang, who brought back 657 sacred texts from India. Here, he translated them, turning the pagoda into a center of Buddhist learning and culture.

Architecturally, the pagoda’s brick structure narrows with each level, resembling a bamboo shoot. This design reflects the Buddhist philosophy of “gradual enlightenment.” In 2014, it became part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Silk Roads: Chang’an-Tianshan Corridor.

Travel Tip

Visit early in the morning to walk with locals in prayer, or climb the pagoda at sunset for panoramic views where ancient Xi’an meets modern skyscrapers.

Grand Tang Mall: Nightlife and Tang Dynasty Reimagined

For a modern twist on Tang Dynasty culture, head to the Grand Tang Mall, a 1.5 km pedestrian street that comes alive after sunset. Using holographic projections, light shows, and live performances, it transforms history into a vibrant spectacle.

Here you can try on hanfu (traditional clothing), interact with actors portraying Tang poets like Li Bai, or enjoy quirky cultural snacks such as 3D-printed Dunhuang mural ice cream. In 2023, National Geographic named it a “must-visit night destination,” calling it a perfect blend of heritage and technology.

Best for Photos

Arrive after 7 PM when 1,382 Tang-style lanterns illuminate the street. No wonder people call it “China’s Times Square.”

Xi’an Ancient City Wall: Cycling Through History

The Xi’an Ancient City Wall is the most complete and best-preserved city wall in China, stretching 13.7 km with a height of 12 meters. Originally built during the Ming Dynasty, it still features intact watchtowers, arrow towers, and defensive gates.

In 2008, Lonely Planet listed it among the Top 10 Most Well-Preserved Medieval Walls in the World, alongside Prague and Lucca.

Best Experience

Rent a bike at Yongning Gate and cycle the wall, which takes about 1.5–2 hours. At dawn or dusk, the wall glows golden like a dragon stretching across the city, with the moat below reflecting the sky—a perfect blend of history and scenery.

From Ancient Chang’an to Modern Xi’an

What makes Xi’an unique is its ability to connect past and present. The Buddhist scriptures translated at the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda influenced East Asia, the city wall’s defense system inspired European fortifications, and the Grand Tang Mall shows how ancient culture can adapt to modern lifestyles.

As architect Tadao Ando once said, “The Xi’an City Wall is not a ruin; it is a living city memory.”

Essential Travel Tips for Xi’an

Getting There:

Giant Wild Goose Pagoda: Metro Line 3

City Wall: Accessible by metro or bus at multiple gates

Tickets:

Giant Wild Goose Pagoda: ¥50 RMB

Xi’an City Wall: ¥54 RMB (plus bike rental)

Grand Tang Mall: Free entry, performances extra

Best Season:

April–May (cherry blossoms)

September–October (cool, clear weather)

On your Xi’an trip, combine ancient history, cultural immersion, and modern entertainment in a single day. Walk in the footsteps of the Tang Dynasty, and you’ll see why Xi’an remains one of China’s top travel destinations.

Detailed travel itinerary available at One-Day Xi’an Travel Itinerary.